Kameo has taken on many forms over the years, from its humblest beginnings as a Gamecube title (2001), to its present incarnation as a 360-launch title. Rare software broke new ground when it first launched this title in 2001, by combining innovative artistic style and unique Gameplay. When Microsoft announced it was developing a new gaming platform, it also announced Kameo was to be one of its launch titles. That's a lot of pressure on a game, because as with any hardware launch, with the roll of the dice, the game can either sink or swim with the hardware. Kameo doesn't disappoint my friends; it is awesome in pretty much all aspects. The graphics are stunning, the sound is exquisite, and the gameplay is a treat. Storyline: You star as the heroine "Kameo." Kameo's family and friends have been captured by her evil sister, who has awakened the evil troll king. Your objective is to rescue the folks, defeat the sister, and save the world from the troll king. There is no soft start to this game— right away you are thrown into a battle, striving to reach your friends and family who are trapped in the castle. Naturally, you don't rescue them, and after being left for dead, you awaken in the Enchanted Kingdom which is full of strange and colorful creatures. This is the starting point for many great adventures, and like all good home bases, this is where you learn to develop your skills and meet your mentors. Every hero needs special powers and Kameo is no different. She has the ability to morph into creatures with their own special powers; from a flame throwing dragon, to a plant with a mean uppercut. Each one of these creatures is needed during the game, and sometimes it takes a combination of them to defeat an enemy. So be prepared for some quick morphing. Like all good adventure games, exploring your surroundings is a must and is encouraged. You'll find many extras and add-ons that will aid you in your quest. Curiosity doesn't always kill the cat and sometimes is needed to survive. Graphics The graphics are stunning and the best of any console game, period, no ifs and or buts. To be fair, you really can't compare the 360 graphics to the PS2 or Gamecube; but hey, I'm writing this article so I can do what I want. This was the first game I loaded into my 360 and my first impression was "WOW!" My wife stayed and watched me play for a couple of hours just because of the graphics. The colours, textures, ambience and environments are extremely rich and detailed. The physics and workmanship behind the graphics are second to none. Sound True story: I was playing the game, I heard some crashing sounds and I immediately got up and went out side as I thought our two English Mastiffs (Laverne & Shirley both 150 lbs +) had knocked a pile of wood over (see pictures). I went outside, the woodpile was intact and the dogs were upstairs enjoying their favorite past time, sleeping! Seems I was fooled by the game; while I was fighting a few nasties I hadn't noticed that one troll had rolled and hit a pile of rocks. Naturally the 360 supports 5.1-surround sound, but what shocked me most was the "quality" of the sound. Many games are 5.1-surround sound capable, but sound quality just isn't there and lacks crispness and definition. Many games also try and overpower you with massive explosions and screaming effects. This is relatively easy to do and amounts to over killing your auditory senses. To me, ambience and subtlety are what makes a truly great gaming experience. The soft rustle of leaves in the background, the wind blowing through the trees—all of these make a game truly great. Too date Kameo has the best in-game sound I've heard. Gameplay The game is rather short, taking about 10 hours to play; but a lot is packed into that 10 hours. Like many adventure games you have your primary mission and several side quests. Kameo's bosses and other nefarious characters are difficult to beat, but not too difficult. In other words, it doesn't take a weekend to kill a boss. Kameo seems to have the right mix of creativity, difficulty and fun. There are many adventure games that seem to lose sight of their objective, turning into fun rollicking romps where one can forget the troubles of the day. Or they can end up being Mensa workouts. Tilt: Kameo is exceptional and will entertain the whole family. The experience is awe-inspiring and is going to be a tough act for other adventure games to follow. Until I see differently, Kameo is the complete package, albeit it's a little short. A must buy!