Psychonauts

In reality, if you intend to get this game, I'd recommend hunting down/downloading off of Gametap the PC version OR accquiring the Xbox version. The PS2 version is clearly not as nice looking or as smooth as either, which is further demonstrated by the fact that some of the in-game scenes have become pre-recorded FMV scenes in this version.

However, if you're like me, and your PC isn't up to spec and you don't own an Xbox, than do yourself a favor and get this game. You WILL NOT regret it.

Tim Schaffer, for one, is a genius. A twisted, sort of MAD genius perhaps but a genius none the less. His bizzare sense of humor carries throughout the game but also he manages to weave a very thought provoking and generally serious story, which has some pretty memorable characters. Of course, if you've played any of his early classics like Full Throttle, this probably won't come as a shock.

The game is a platformer, but it mixes elements from the above mentioned game including item hunting, drop down inventory and other aspects to make it different enough that it doesn't feel like you've played it before. Plus, you get some pretty awesome psychic powers.

The game's style is pretty rad, feeling almost Tim Burton-esque...back when that would have been a compliment. It's distorted and cartoonish and a little dark but it feels right somehow.

This is a great game, and you would certainly not be doing yourself a disservice finding it. But if possible, look for a different console. The PS2 is not the best one.

Of all the game scripts I have seen over the years, I have to say that this is one of the best ever. All of the writing is witty, funny, clever and filled with memorable characters and dialogue. This isn't just typical dick and fart jokes humor. Tim Schafer actually took the time to delve into his deliciously clever mind and create a world that despite it's Burton like look is actually very charming and witty. In fact, I dare say that this game is worth buying solely for the story. It is that good!

That's not to say the other parts are not good though. On the contrary, this is a very well constructed platformer. Despite using most of the genre staples, all of them work and are interesting to play. The psychic powers are entertaining and the puzzles are clever without being too challenging. The level design is particularly noteworhty, using the crazy art direction to establish living worlds within the people's minds. My favorite one is that of the Milkman, but each one has its quirk that I enjoy.

If you ever wanted to find a truly funny game, look no further. Psychonauts is Tim Schafer's crowning achievements and one of my all time favorites. No it's not perfect (there are minor glitches and the bosses aren't too challenging), but the excellent writing and sheer enjoyment make up for the flaws.

Great platformer, very creative but also very childish. The graphics are terrible but the gameplay rules. Worth a rent.

Yes, it's well written and clever. But it could have used some editing. All the cut-scenes are long-winded. I downloaded this on my 360 a while back, and it has some of the worst aspects of platform games - a plethora of collectibles, etc. Plus the final level is so frustrating because you have hit every jump perfectly or else you start back at the beginning. I gave up.

This game is beyond explanation, it must be played to be believed. From the mind of the guy who helped create The Secret of Monkey Island, this is one of the true shining moments of the last generation of gaming. The soundtrack kicks ass as well, pick it up.

There's this link between level and character design here... Lots of wit, too.
Probably a good game to play.
The last level is a bitch, though.

I think I said at one point that Rayman 2 was an ideal drug simulation. Brudda, it's got nothin' on Psychonauts.

Quite apart from clever dialogue (the scene with the tacky lamp is almost Monty Python quality), Psychonauts has more than its share of style and fun. Platforming can be aggravating with the PS2's flailing analog sticks and catching all the figments is probably more trouble than it's worth, but the last level is called Meat Circus. How could you not find it in your shallow heart to buy a game with Meat Circus?

The best 3D platformer for the PC,PS2,Xbox.
The controls are OK, but the levels are so incredibly created that you always says "WOW" when entering a new one.
The characters are great and the dialogs are lots of fun.

Clever dialogue, clever story, clever combat, clever platforming, clever game. Tim Schaffer is a genius. Can't wait for Brutal Legend.

great game. fun and intersting. designed a game like this 10 years ago. glad to see that somebody finally had the kahoonas to make it. curse the evil publishers who pulled the original marketing budget and lost this great title its blockbuster status