Scaler - 3D Platformer Hidden Gems

'Scaler' 

Released 2004

PS2 XBOX GC

Develper: A2M (now Behavior Interactive)

Scaler is a great 3D platformer that borrows elements from all sorts of titles in the same vein of the platforming genre such as Sonic, Super Mario, Banjo Kazooie and even Ratchet and Clank. You play as a young boy named Bobby Jenkins who is forcibly transformed into a shape shifting lizard creature. In this new form he now has the ability to transform into 5 very different types of mutant lizards. Bobby, now sarcastically dubbed 'Scaler' is escapes through a portal into another dimension where he stumbles into an evil plot and has to save the universe pretty much. 

Scaler offers a great deal of gameplay variety with its impressive moves list.

The controls in scaler are tight, its not always easer with platformers to get the controls to be to feel like a smooth extension of the human body, since games like Super Mario 64 we have become overly fussy when it comes to controls, scaler is great. What sets this game apart is the transformation you can morph between, although the player cant transform at will, parts of the levels are specific for certain types of abilities dictated by varying enemy and environment types. The different forms allow for exceptionally varying gameplay. Cheap and easy to find i often spot Scaler in the pre-owned bins at gamestop, go grab Scaler.

- Alexander Bruce

Scaler trailer: