On one hand, Pikmin 3's core exploration-based puzzle designs are top-notch. With how each levels are laid out and the opening up of more abilities as you unlock more pikmins, these levels feel like a smaller metroidvania levels, encouraging the players to return, so they can find all the collectibles they missed on their first foray.

On the other hand, the game has its share of frustrations. The controls are not really easy to get used to, especially aiming, with how finicky the reset gyro works. The game is also designed for multitasking, but because of the nature of the console it's on, it's simply not intuitive enough--often I was left feeling I was being limited by the game instead of my own shortcomings. Not being able to order around companions on the map unless the player is specifically controlling that member is annoying, but with the fact the player cannot easily divide pikmins into teams, some of these limitations are actively working against the game's core objective. The ever-present stress of daily time limit also become more annoying than acting as a hurdle to encourage efficiency.

It's a terrific game. Some of the joys you get from playing this is quite unparalleled, especially with how unique the concept is. But I can't lie that I was secretly glad it was short.