PlayStation

Lemmings 3D

As a long-time Lemmings fan, it's great to see them grow into the third dimension. The masses have been rendered in 3-D with impressive accuracy. Adjusting to the unlimited view and camera control can be a shock for the unsuspecting. The mazes hold the same classic challenge and most importantly, it feels as if you are still playing a Lemmings title and not a Doom clone with green-haired characters. Previous Lemmings fan, rejoice.

Unfortunately, some things are simply meant to be rudimentary. 3-D Lemmings is a good trick, but for the most part, the added complications work against the simple charm of this game.

The graphics are nice enough, with the simple, colorful backgrounds and detailed structures, but compared to something like Jumping Flash! it looks a little barren. The control is easy to use, just point the cursor and assign tasks. The focus here is on strategy and gameplay, and Lemmings 3D certainly delivers.

Still, if you liked Lemmings, or just like puzzle games in general, then you may like Lemmings 3D. Once you get the hang of it, it can be pretty addicting, but the frustration level remains throughout the entire duration of the game. It's just a bit too hard and the camera system is very tricky to use. But, if you like highly difficult and frustrating games (and you have a lot of patience), then this is the one for you.

Lemmings 3D barely looks like it's earlier cousin. Lemmings come toward you, walk away from you and crawl under you, but the 3D view is confusing. Corny music offers apt accompaniment, but the hapless controls and over-abundant menus are the final nightmares. Call the SPCA - cruelty to animals just assumed digital form.