Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Jurassic Park III: The DNA Factor delivers a distinctive blend of side-scrolling platform action and DNA-matching puzzles that keep every level feeling fresh. At the start of each stage, you choose between two playable characters—a professional photographer with speed and agility, or a seasoned pilot boasting greater resilience. The platforming sections require careful timing as you dodge charging raptors, leap over bottomless pits, and navigate precarious terrain while collecting DNA fragments scattered along the way.

Once you’ve gathered enough DNA to unlock the exit, the game transitions seamlessly into the Dinosaur Creation phase. Here, you’re presented with a grid of DNA samples that must be correctly paired to reconstruct the genetic blueprint of ten distinct dinosaur species. Early puzzles are relatively straightforward, but as you push deeper into the island, you’ll face more complex matching challenges that demand careful observation and strategy to solve under time pressure.

The level design does an excellent job of weaving action and puzzle mechanics together. Some stages emphasize speed and reflexes, forcing you to sprint from point A to B to avoid a stampede of Triceratops, while others slow the pace to let you focus on locating elusive DNA canisters hidden behind breakable crates or high ledges. This ebb and flow ensures that the game rarely feels repetitive, and each completed dinosaur unlock feels like a genuine accomplishment.

Graphics

For a Game Boy Advance title, Jurassic Park III: The DNA Factor exhibits surprisingly detailed sprite work and colorful environments. The jungle backdrops are lush and varied, with layered parallax scrolling that gives a sense of depth as you traverse dense foliage, crumbling ruins, and volcanic caverns. Character animations—whether you’re rolling to dodge a Velociraptor strike or assembling DNA strands—are smooth and expressive despite the system’s limitations.

Enemy designs capture the essence of the Jurassic Park franchise, from small but feisty Compsognathus to towering Brachiosaurus roaming in the distance. Each dinosaur moves with believable weight and personality, and audio cues such as distant roars or the low growl of a Spinosaurus add to the immersion. Puzzle screens also have a clean, clinical aesthetic, with clear icons and bright colors to help you differentiate DNA types at a glance.

The interface strikes a good balance between functionality and style. Text boxes and health meters are unobtrusive, letting you focus on the action and puzzle layouts without distraction. While the GBA’s palette can’t match modern handheld devices, the game’s art direction maximizes what’s available and ensures each level feels distinct, whether you’re sneaking through a rainy jungle or racing along a sun-bleached ridge.

Story

Drawing inspiration from Jurassic Park III, the narrative premise sets you and your partner—either the intrepid photographer or reliable pilot—on Isla Sorna to investigate the island’s out-of-control dinosaur population. Though the storyline is straightforward, it effectively motivates your dual objectives of survival and scientific discovery. Brief cutscenes introduce new threats and explain why you’re collecting DNA, giving context to the blend of action and puzzle gameplay.

The game doesn’t attempt to retell the movie beat for beat but rather expands on the concept of capturing genetic material in the field. Dialogue exchanges are concise yet informative, providing hints about the next region to explore or insights into dinosaur behavior that tie back to the puzzles. This approach keeps the pace brisk and avoids bogging you down in excessive exposition.

By the time you begin assembling more advanced species—like the ferocious Carnotaurus or enigmatic Pteranodon—the narrative stakes feel higher. Each successful creation unlocks a new environmental hazard or a fresh area to survey, maintaining the feeling of an evolving mission. Fans of the franchise will appreciate the respectful nods to familiar dinosaurs while newcomers gain a streamlined story that hinges on exploration and scientific achievement.

Overall Experience

Jurassic Park III: The DNA Factor stands out as a well-crafted hybrid of platforming thrills and brain-teasing puzzles. The core loop of collecting DNA, escaping perilous situations, and then meticulously reconstructing dinosaur genomes offers a satisfying sense of progression. Whether you’re sprinting past a charging Gallimimus or testing your deduction skills in the lab, the game strikes a fine balance between adrenaline and intellect.

Replay value is bolstered by the choice of characters and the challenge modes unlocked after completing the main campaign. Attempting levels with the alternative protagonist adds a fresh twist—each offers unique strengths and vulnerabilities, altering your strategy in both action and puzzle phases. Additionally, high-score challenges encourage you to refine your performance and solve DNA puzzles more efficiently.

For fans of Jurassic Park and retro handheld gaming, The DNA Factor delivers a rewarding experience that feels both nostalgic and innovative. Its combination of tight controls, charming visuals, and inventive puzzle design makes it a standout title on the Game Boy Advance. Even today, this hybrid approach holds up as an engaging adventure that will satisfy players seeking both platform action and cerebral challenges.

Retro Replay Score

5.4/10