Alright, so here we are, diving back into – I can’t believe I’m saying this – Gex. Yeah, that gecko that kinda vanished after the GEICO one stole the spotlight. Anyway, it’s “Tail Time” again with the Gex Trilogy hitting modern platforms. Like, who asked for this, right? But hey, let’s see if these oldies got some new tricks. Or if they’re just relics better left gathering dust.
Original Gex – Nostalgia or Not?
First off, we plunge into the original Gex, starting on 3DO, then hopping over to Sega Saturn and PlayStation. This one’s all 2D platforming goodness (if you can call it that). Gex gets sucked into his TV by Rez – the dude is supposed to make Gex the Media Dimension’s mascot. Kinda silly if you ask me. You’ve got Gex shimmying through themes like the Cemetery and Kung Fuville. Collect remotes, knock out levels. You know the drill. Gex’s moves? Tail attacks and some kinda aerial butt bounce. Plus, munch on power-ups for stuff like flames and super speed. Sounds neat, eh? Checkpoints in levels are like a godsend, though. You’ll need ’em.
Quirky Quips and Platformer Perils
Gex, gameplay-wise, is this odd mix. Like trying to run? Definitely feels like trying to stop a runaway train. Enemies got these wonky hitboxes, so good luck judging distances. You can climb around everywhere, but figuring out if a spot’s climbable is like trying to guess what your cat’s thinking. Gex NEVER shuts up, dude – those quips that were chuckle-worthy at first? Pure annoyance on repeat. Some worlds feel creative, but the look is meh. Might just be me, but this one’s the weakest of the lot.
Enter the Gecko – Gex Goes 3D
Next up, Gex: Enter the Gecko – and boom, we’re in 3D! Rez is back at it, being all villain-y. Gex gets nudged into action by some cash – relatable, right? Handling Gex feels a little better here, but he’s still kinda floaty. He’s got his old moves plus a long jump that’s not quite as snazzy as Mario’s. Quips are more varied, thankfully, yet “It’s Tail Time” will haunt you. Oh, and the camera? Ugh. Switch it to manual, ASAP.
Hopping Between Worlds
Gex’s hub world features TV screens that take you to different places. Collect remotes, hidden goodies, and collectables in each stage. The collectables change – like, in Toon TV they turn from Carrots to TNT Plungers, which is kinda cool, right? Gex even gets different outfits – rabbit, space dude, disco king. Sometimes I got lost, but hey, it’s a pretty slick entry overall.
Gex 3: Deep Cover Gecko – One Last Hurrah
Last stop, Gex 3: Deep Cover Gecko. Gex jumps into action ‘cause a Baywatch actress gets kidnapped (random enough?). The hub’s a messy sprawl now. Collectables? Now just Fly Coins – lost their quirky touch. Regular coins open bonus zones – with this tick-tock noise that drives you bonkers.
Connecting the Dots – Or Trying To
Levels in this one? More connected, I suppose. Paths make sense, and Gex occasionally gets on a snowboard or into a tank – mixing things up. Boss fights are more engaging, unlike the “meh” attempts in earlier games. But this time, more doesn’t always mean better. I think Enter the Gecko holds up better.
Gex Trilogy – Worth the Trip?
In the end, the Gex Trilogy is, well, okay. Limited Run’s Carbon Engine gives us perks like rewind and save states – much appreciated. Authentic vibes maintained, albeit with flaws. Extras? Commercials from back in the day, interviews, and art. Nice touch. But platforming-wise? Meh, doesn’t hit those Super Mario 64 notes. Still, nice they’re preserved for nostalgic kicks. Games deserve to be saved. Even if just for a laugh at the 90s quirks.
6/10? Ah, sure, why not.
