Gex Trilogy Review: Hilarious Platformer Series Returns

Crystal Dynamics’ Gex series of platformers is now available on modern consoles thanks to Limited Runs’ Gex Trilogy. The rerelease is the latest in Limited Runs’ ambitions to show modern gaming fans a piece of history, and manages to retain much of the charm of the original games, all while incorporating a ton of modern changes that make things even more enjoyable.

The trilogy pack — which is an enhanced port of the original games — features a ton of new additions that make it the ideal way to experience Gex. These include the ability to play Gex 2 and 3 in widescreen format, and most importantly, with the use of full analog controls. While that might not sound like much, getting to re-experience (or experience for the first time) the games in sharper detail and color, and in a modern package, is well worth diving into.

The original game (first released in 1995) is more of a traditional, 2D platformer, for those who don’t know. Despite this, Limited Run has dropped in a ton of helpful features that make the game feel new. Things like the ability to rewind gameplay, save at any point, and change up filters to create different looks while you play are all great. Of course, it wouldn’t be anything if the game itself weren’t fun, but it is. Unlike its sequels, the original Gex sees you collecting remotes in a fairly linear fashion, beating up enemies and cracking jokes, and it’s great to re-explore.

The sequels, though, are where Gex shines in my opinion. Both are very obviously riffing off of the success of games like Super Mario 64, but its in a 3D setting where Gex is at its best. Exploring different worlds via television screens and fighting enemies has never been better for the series, thanks to the trilogy’s upgrades.

Being able to control the sequels with analog controls while retaining the game’s original feel and charm, specifically, has made me hopeful that Limited Run is eyeing a ton of other 3D platformers from back in the day for rerelease. For a game like Gex, that charm is pretty much 90% of what it hangs its hat on. Thankfully, Limited Run realizes that and has packed the trilogy with bonus features for the most diehard of Gex fans.

Ranging from an interview with Dana Gould (who voiced Gex in the games), footage of an unreleased game featuring Gex’s child, and a music player for the three games, all make it feel like Limited Run knows just how worthwhile it is to preserve games like Gex.

Gex Trilogy Review: Final Verdict

The Gex Trilogy is one that might be marketed toward diehard fans, but anyone will enjoy playing this. Although all three games are dated, they’re still as charming, fun, and hilarious as ever. Add that to a ton of reworked upgrades and awesome bonus features, and the Gex Trilogy is a must-add to your collection. Now, if we could only get someone to work on a proper sequel.

SCORE: 8/10

As ComingSoon’s review policy explains, a score of 8 equates to “Great.” While there are a few minor issues, this score means that the art succeeds at its goal and leaves a memorable impact.

Disclosure: The publisher provided a digital copy for our Gex Trilogy review. Reviewed on version 1.000.000.

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