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JaggedSac on 24 July 2008
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exindguy said:
JaggedSac said:
I cannot wait for the game to come out. It looks great and the vehicle building aspect seems really fun. Not sure why platforming is only considered platforming when a character's legs are involved. It should not matter the method of character movement as long as the basic features of a platformer are kept. Collecting stuff and having to unlock things in order to get to areas previously unattainable. Instead of a new and improved jump, Banjo gets a new vehicle part that provides the same functionality. Only now, the functionality of all of these extra abilities can me mixed and matched to provide for an unlimited number of variations of character movement and action.

 

Via Wikipedia:

Platform game, or platformer, is a video game genre characterized by jumping to and from suspended platforms or over obstacles.

 

Via Wikipedia:

The game is not a traditional third-person action and platform game like the previous entries in the series, but instead utilizes vehicles to transport Banjo and Kazooie around the levels. According to Mayles about 20 percent of the game retains traditional platforming elements, which include ledge grabbing and tightrope walking.

A comment or two:

1. "Collecting stuff and having to unlock things in order to get to areas previously unattainable" accurately describes not only most platformers but also most action-adventures and, if we stretch it a bit, a swath of other genres.

2. What makes a platformer a platformer is "jumping to and from suspended platforms" which, based on the word of the developer, does not describe the vast bulk of Banjo Nuts and Bolts.

Now being aware of these facts, do you see why some people are a bit hesitant in getting excited about a game that is, at best, a hybrid with little emphasis on actual platforming and, at worst, something completely alien to both gamers and to the Banjo franchise?

I could see why people are a little hesitant when the game was announced.  Jumping does not have to be with legs.  Using a very simple definition of platforming, getting from platform to platform using available movement options, then Banjo N & B fits the bill.  I do not see why it has to be a character running around.