I’ve bought this yesterday and completed it the next day, 98% (missing one achievement for now) in 4.7 hours. This is a different approach compared to 1 where I played about one level a day over a longer period of time. It has a lot to do with 1 being more challenging and less varied compared to 3D. It focused exclusively on skateboarding/pipes and some levels were more challenging than the rest.

3D still has some of that challenge but it’s more balanced and a bit easier. It basically tries to recreate most of what 1 offers in 3D instead of 2D and it mixes that with traditional platforming. So you have to jump around, collect things, then use the pipes etc. It works extremely well and it’s satisfying if you enjoy your typical platformers. The skateboarding on pipes is the little bit of gameplay that makes Skator Gator stand out instead of being predictable. It’s also really cool to see how certain enemies, items and moves have been brought to life in 3D.

There are 13 levels where you have to collect trash, Gator letters, boombox and beat the challenge times. The collected trash is used to buy skins. Exploration along with speed are both important. So you’re going to replay levels a couple of times if you want to get everything. Luckily it’s fun to get everything, it doesn’t feel like a chore.

Style is cute, the mascot is reminiscent of old school platformers, the soundtrack has some catchy tunes and the controls are very good. It’s not a perfect game by any means (minor things not worth mentioning) but what’s there is strong and begs to be expanded with a sequel. Both Skator Gator games are worth playing as they’re not just good, they’re also of good length (they don’t overstay their welcome) and the price is very appropriate for what you get.