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Ecco's fans will welcome the return of their favorite mammal. Like the acclaimed previous games, this one generates hours of entertainment, though it may seem redundant if you're not an Ecco acolyte.
Sea Quest
![Ecco Ecco](http://img.gamefaqs.net/box/2/8/7/3287_front.jpg)
When Ecco is warned about an impending threat to the sea's harmony, he embarks on a voyage to save the future. Throughout his long, strategic journey, he must solve puzzles, find the Asterite and teleport rings, battle undersea creatures, morph into other animals, and find air. While it sounds like a lot, the action unfolds slowly, which may send action-loving gamers elsewhere.
Ecco the Dolphin is the original video game created by Ed Annunziata which started the Ecco series. The game was developed for the Sega Genesis console and released in 1992. Additional versions of the game were later released for Sega CD, Sega Master System, Sega Game Gear, and Microsoft Windows. Ecco’s sonar has other uses, too; if he launches a blast of sound and then waits for it to return to him, you get an area map of your surroundings. It really is fun to play as a dolphin, if for no other reason than novelty. But actually controlling a dolphin can take getting used to.
If you know the previous Ecco game, you'll know these controls. Ecco has a trusty Sonar for picking up cryptic messages, a Sonar Map to locate important items, and the patented swim, jump, and attack moves that make him the smoothest swimmer since Jacques Cousteau. Life's a beach for this quick, responsive dolphin.
A Sight to Sea
Ecco's games have always had glorious graphics, and this one's no exception. Beautiful colors and exquisite details fill every level. Morphing moves and weird beasts add visual variety, but be prepared for lots of aqua backgrounds.
You'll instantly recognize the sounds from previous Eccos. The astral music and sonar pings are just what you'd expect.
Don't be lulled by Ecco's beauty: This game's strategic challenge may frustrate younger gamers. Passwords help, but plan on diving in headfirst and staying underwater for a long time. This game's worth the effort, though, because Ecco's definitely back with a splash.
ProTips:
![Dolphin Dolphin](/uploads/1/2/5/8/125845932/654936156.jpg)
- Don't attack these quick eels - just swim around them.
- Use your Sonar Map frequently, especially in the later, longer levels.
Overall rating: 7
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