Psychonauts

Though I'm recommending this game on the strength of the wacky story, hilarious characters, and delightfully imaginative design, I must attach a dire warning: it has some of the worst 3D platforming I've ever had the displeasure of experiencing.

Everything that can go wrong with 3D platforming does. Imprecise hit boxes. Invisible walls. A camera operated by a drunken sailor. Unresponsive controls. A "levitation" power that steers like a kite in a tornado. And then there are a few level designs that seem determined to emphasize these weaknesses to the max.

Combat is not a big deal in this game, but when it happens it's as annoying as a bag full of clowns. Your combat focus sometimes works, sometimes doesn't, and sometimes works on that which you don't want it work. The wonky camera adds a really special dimension of frustration. The many bosses are also a mixed bag. Usually there is a trick to beating them (bosses as puzzles) but the trick is either far too easy or far too obtuse. They are not satisfying bosses.

As long as I'm complaining: the save system does not do what you want it to do. It always sends you to the beginning of the level. So, you might even have to repeat that awful 3D platforming bit. Just the game's little way of letting you know how much it hates you.

Seriously, I have never cussed so much while playing a game, not in a long time. It scared my cats. The urge to rage-quit came often, and indeed increased in the late game.

So, why am I still recommending this disaster? Because the game is so charming and delightful in spite of its hot-garbage platforming mechanics, and it would be a game-crime to miss out on this volcano of creativity. I do recommend playing it. But don't let the gameplay bog you down: look up strategies and solutions online, watch videos of people mustering the worst parts, and keep your cool. Raz would.