Let’s face it. “Pilot Wings” has always been the red-headed step-child of Nintendo franchises. That doesn’t mean they haven’t been enjoyable, they just haven’t gotten the same amount of attention as Mario and his friends.
Sadly, this trend doesn’t stop with the series’ revival on the Nintendo 3DS. Although the 3D elements are beautifully done and the controls, albeit sophomoric, make it easy to jump in and play, a Nintendo trademark, it feels like this game is way too shallow to take seriously.
While it’s understandable that Nintendo would use the lush world from their Wii Sports Resort title as the landscape for this title, it robs it of any real originality. At the same time, it’s hard to argue with the game’s visual appeal. The fact that you can use your Mii character adds an immediate charm. The island itself is complex and full of surprises to uncover.
At the same time, it all feels borrowed.
Well, that’s because it is.
If the game had more of its own personality and wasn’t an attempt to show gamers how cool 3D gaming could be, it might have an opportunity to capture our imagination.
It doesn’t.
Although there are multiple gameplay modes and three different vehicles to fly around in, it all feels like eating prepackaged meat and not a cut of something fresh.
Those addicted to the series will find the controls simple and the action enjoyable, but will find it repetitive after a while. Without an option to barrel roll and perform more advanced aerial maneuvers, there’s only so much you can actually do here.
Overall, unless you’re 3DS game hungry or a loyalist to the series, there’s little reason to even try this title. It’s pretty, but lacks a personality to complete the package.
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