When I saw the launch titles for the 3DS I knew there was one title that I had to get immediately: Pilotwings Resort. I’ve enjoyed the other titles on the Super Nintendo and Nintendo 64. Obviously there’s been a lot of room for growth since the days of Mode 7 graphics and analog stick showing up on consoles. I definitely believe Pilotwings Resort demonstrates the potential for the 3DS’s success.
You’ll start out by picking a Mii as your pilot, and sign your name. From there you’ll choose two modes: Mission Flight Mode and Free Flight Mode. Mission Flight Mode will introduce new elements in Free Flight Mode, though you can get started with either one. The options for flight are the Hang Glider, the Rocket Belt, and the Plane (later on you’ll be introduced to a boosted version of each). Anyone who is familiar to Wii Sports Resort will recognize Wuhu Island and it’s surrounding isles. The Free Flight Mode is enjoyable as there are collectibles for the three different modes of transportation.
What Nintendo and Monster Games has created is an enjoyable area for flight for all of these vehicles. The challenges if Mission Flight mode are very fun and utilize the 3D visualizations. In the more difficult missions I did find turning off the 3D.
The reason for turning off the 3D is simple. Despite my years in playing video games I still move around, if ever so slightly, as I play a game. I’m not sure if its fidgeting or trying to control the game a bit more but the screen would create some strange glare as I moved around.
Other notable things to mention in this brief review are the controls and music. I am extremely impressed with the addition of the analog stick as it is perfectly responsive. The music is enjoyable because it keeps everything very mellow.
If you own the 3DS but weren’t sure to pick up this title I would recommend it. It’s a great way to show the system off and the learning curve is not aggressive. I hope the future 3DS titles will look at the successes of this game and build upon them.
