A car-combat RPG? "Strange!," you doubtless think.

Don't be so quick to brush off this wild ride, though. Publisher Natsume has cornered the market on offbeat RPGs. In the various Harvest Moons for Super NES, GBC and N64, you're a lovesick farmer, while virtual anglers can trade bugs and fish between the two Legend of the River King GB games.

Car Battler Joe originally came out in 2001 in Japan, where they take their RPGs very seriously indeed.

As the son of a famous car battler, Joe Todoroki has all the ambition and natural ability to become a master of mechanical mayhem. Early on, Joe may not have much experience or firepower, but gains both as he takes on new jobs and gussies up his garage.

In Joe's home town, Padorko, you will meet many interesting people and tinker in Joe's garage. Everything from the chassis to the weapons will affect performance. You can even craft multiple vehicles from spare parts.

Once your preparations are complete you can accept one of several jobs posted at a local shop. These jobs require you to deliver goods or destroy enemies in exchange for cold cash. Once you build a reputation, people will begin to ask for you by name and the coming-of-age story unfolds.

The real action begins when moving from town to town. The motorized melees takes place on a rotating plane that showcases the processing prowess of the Game Boy Advance. Out in the wastelands, you will encounter gun-toting enemies who will test the durability and firepower of your ride.

Car Battler Joe adheres closely to standard RPG elements but the car combat looks and feels good. Customizing your car is fun for the grease monkey at heart, but may be overwhelming for some.

Up to four players can go head to head in their customized vehicles using GBAs and Game Paks for every player and enough GBA Game Link cables to connect all systems.