sure its linear and a little too easy, but imo this is mechanically such a solid entry and is easily the best in the series in that regard, so many more options for multitasking now, not to mention crazy good graphics for the console it was on and some much improved boss fights

also bingo battle and the mission mode are genuinely great and add a ton of value to the game, such fun side modes and I really hope pikmin 4 has some of the same

its pretty close to a 9 (high 8) but it feels a little bit too easy and not as replayable as the first game, it doesnt excel that game for me at all but this is probably the best game in the series, just not my favorite