Psychonauts (game)

Psychonauts
By Doublefine/Majesco, 2005
Playstation 2, Xbox, PC
Rating: T

Summary:
Raz has grown up the circus, but always harbored dreams of becoming a Psychonaut, a psychic fighter. Against his parents’ wishes, he runs away to the Psychonauts’ summer camp. He has a very short amount of time to pass every test before his parents come to collect him. But while Raz is earning his badges, he uncovers an evil plot within the summer camp: a mad scientist is stealing brains from Psychonauts and campers! Playing as Raz, you must earn all the merit badges in order to become a full-fledged Psychonaut, and then save the other campers from the evil scientist.

Review:
I’ve adored Tim Scafer since his work on Monkey Island. He definitely brings his imagination and quirky humor to Psychonauts. The game fits the action/adventure bill, combining unique combat with puzzles (and plenty of jokes). The visuals are stunning and bright, and the voice work is amazing. This may not be perfect for a gamer who loves first-person shooters, lots of competition, and gratuitous violence. But it’s a great pick for anyone who loves funny, imaginative gaming like Katamari Damacy, Monkey Island or Ico.