Pac-Man World 3

"An improved version of Pac-Man World 2."

Before I say anything, this game is a large improvement from Pac-Man World 2. Even though I only rated it one higher than I did Pac-Man World 2. It is much improved, but it is not to the level of a 9 rating. I like this game, much more than it's predecessor, and I think if you are to get any new platformer, it should be this one. It is only $10 more than World 2, and is far better.

Graphics--10/10
Like the one before it, Pac-Man World 3 offers some of the best graphics that the Playstation 2 has to offer. While the characters are cartoony, that is the way it was intended. The part where it really shows, is in the backgrounds. The mountainous ranges, the large, dense forests. It is extremely well done, and nothing is held back. With some of the best graphics on the market, I am giving Graphics a 10 out of 10.

Sound/Music--10/10
Just like it's older brother, this game has amazing music. The music is what makes the game so special. It has a certain vibe to it. It makes you happy. You could have just gotten in a car accident, failed your test, or gotten fired, and this game would make it all better. The sounds are nothing special, but they do fit in the game. So, because of the music, this category receives a 10 out of 10.

Controls--9/10
The control scheme remains mainly the same, but it is improved in the fact that Pac-Man has new moves on his side. Aside from his old fashioned ground-pounding, spinning, and super jumping. He now has a fresh new set. Have fun beating baddies and exploring hidden areas, as Pac-Man has never been more prepared. The controls are not hard to learn, either. I don't think I have ever seen a platformer with difficult controls, however. Slightly improved controls, they are rewarded a 9 out of 10.

Gameplay--8/10
This game is again, a platformer, and plat formers rarely differ. It is the extras that make the game. In this case, there are substantial. The fruit collecting and coin collecting return, but now with more of each. There are also far more unlockables that you have to work for. You can unlock old arcade games, new multi-player mini-games, and many other games. For the game itself, it is just a ordinary platformer. With new extras, I am giving Gameplay a 8 out of 10.

Replayability--7/10
With more stuff to play for, like Arcade games, mini-games, this game has more of a replayablity factor. Players will want to replay to get those few extra rewards, that weren't there in World or World 2. Still, it does get old quickly, so play fast, and get those rewards. More to play for than the previous two games, I am awarding Replayabity a 7 out of 10.

Although my review may not reflect it, this game is an improvement. A vast improvement. If you are seriously considering getting a platformer, I would suggest this one. The story hardly matters, it is all about the gameplay. You won't be disappointed, not in the least bit.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 01/23/06