The Simpsons: Itchy & Scratchy in Miniature Golf Madness

The deadly game of cat and mouse between Itchy & Scratchy (of Simpsons fame) continues in this great new Game Boy title.

Entitled Miniature Golf Madness, it's a strange combination of miniature golf and a side-scrolling adventure. Control the luckless Scratchy in a golf tournament. He's got to sink the ball in the hole; however, Itchy is out to maim, crush and maul him, usually using an assortment of lethal items. You do have a chance to get even. Sometimes you will find special objects like the hammer and the baseball bat that allow you to clobber that pesky mouse.

Itchy & Scratchy: Miniature Golf Madness is loaded with thrills and spills. Just perfect for portable gaming.

Simpsons fans might want to play this game, but don't expect much. It barely makes par.

Scratchy the cat plays miniature golf while Itchy, the manic mouse, torments him. As the Scratchster, you aim shots past obstacles and pound on Itchy.

Both critters use weapons, including bazookas and mallets. The controls for these weapons and your accurate golf shots score a birdie.

Unfortunately, the graphics and sounds add up to a bogey. Plain backgrounds, stiff movements, and minimal details combine for a boring look. The sounds also disappoint, with repetitive music and few sound effects to add interest.

Expect the show's ultraviolence, too. It's funny, but this routine game's not much fun.

Bart Simpson's made stars of those maniacal mice, Itchy & Scratchy. Now they're off to play a friendly game of Putt Putt golf. Of course, these hyperactive heroes turn the game into a slapstick adventure. Scratchy must successfully finish nine holes before Itchy finishes him and his nine lives.