Where Toy Story 3 falters the most is within its fetch quests, where areas are often idly paced up and down to find something that has been hinted toward- shallow ideas denting the well crafted whole. Some of the missions are also drab and dull, especially where Buzz is involved, with the over-the-shoulder lock-on shooting mechanic being quite poor, making the endless destruction of the waves of enemies forced at him a repetitive slog. The interpretation of Toy Story 2’s opening scenes should have been particularly resonant and a stand out moment of the game, but unfortunately is poorly realised due to the underwhelming combat that has been given little thought. It makes me question what could have been achieved had the developer been given enough time to balance and refine the part’s of the game which have obviously been rushed towards its release date. In fairness to the game however, Avalanche Software has demonstrated assurance and quality in many instances, with some excellent ideas thrown in.

Otherwise infused with enough replicated Pixar charm and sentimentalities from the films, the game stands up very well visually, retaining playful and insightful characteristics from each of its characters and thus allowing them to each stand out very well within the game, whilst delivering refreshing and delightful colourful sets and game locations. From the dusty plains of the toy box contrasting to the bright neon-lit swathes in space, the beloved Toy Story 3 franchise is expertly brought to screen, imbuing the essence of the game with enough uniquely designed settings to keep the game pacey and interesting for the whole of its stay. The sparsely used but surprisingly adept cut scenes also successfully add enough humour for the audience, introducing us to new characters (Peas in a Pod a particular highlight), while stitching together a loose plot.

Hugely enjoyable for the most part, Toy Story 3 can certainly be considered amongst the best of film to videogame tie-ins. Demonstrating enough charm and exceptional visuals for fans of the series, with the puzzle and platforming sections of the game doing their very best in giving gamers reason to take notice. It’s no classic platformer, but neither can it be considered cheap or defunct of ideas; this movie tie-in is worthy of the Toy Story name and stands on its own merits – with or without the film licence to prop it up.

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