Though some may consider the 3D platform genre to have been saturated somewhat since the days of Mario 64 et al, it's true to say that without them, interactive entertainment wouldn't be everything it's cracked up to be. That said, the demand for such games is greater than ever, so without further ado, let us introduce Scaler, the latest in the genre for 2004.
Affording players some rather unique playing styles, Scaler tells the story of an unlikely human-turned-lizard super hero as he embarks on his first adventure to stop his evil neighbour's plot to take over the world by stealing lizards and creating his own reptile army. You've gotta give it points for originality.
When you've made the transformation to super-lizard, you can begin the game proper. In the beginning, Scaler's platforming antics appear generic. However, when players are given the option to change into any of four other reptiles and assume their unique abilities, our newfound super-hero takes players to a whole new level.
Able to climb walls and ceilings, create static electricity and use camouflage, players will soon find themselves negotiating Scaler's ten massive levels in a way they would otherwise never have imagined. You'll bring these special abilities into play on a constant basis as they also prove necessary to defeat myriad evil cohorts and even seek out those obligatory collectibles and crystal gem rarities.
Scaler is one of those games that's not only fun to play, it's bursting with personality too. The narrative is witty at times and the environments are noticeably vibrant and colourful. Go on, give it a go.