What's wrong with a world-class platformer?

User Rating: 8.3 | Pac-Man World 3 GC
I think this game is seriously underrated. Many reviewers have complained that it is "just another platformer" or that it "doesn't innovate on the genre"; I disagree strongly with that kind of thinking. Taken on its own merits, Pac-man World 3 is a challenging, top-notch 3D platformer. (On a side note, we don't see the same reviewers complaining that the latest GTA sequel to a sequel to a sequel hasn't innovated except to add more violence.)

The single best aspect of this game is that it combines a linear structure with plenty of opportunities to explore in many directions. The key is that one never feels lost. And just when you think it's a straight platformer, the game throws in a tough puzzle challenge to keep you on your toes. The control is also tight.

The two main drawbacks are out-of-place and annoying boss battles and the less-than-stellar save system, which can leave you stranded with not enough extra lives to give you a fighting chance.

I think this is just a great game.