Skylanders Giants | Nintendo 3DS

Dive headfirst into the magical, high-stakes universe of Skylanders Giants on the Nintendo 3DS, published by Activision Publishing, Inc. and first released on October 21, 2012. Carrying an ESRB rating of Everyone 10+, this portable action-fantasy title challenges you to stand against the evil pirate Captain Frightbeard. Long ago, Captain Frightbeard and his entire crew were banished to the Chest of Exile by the ancient Arkeyans, but now they have returned to cause chaos, leaving it up to your heroes to restore peace.

Your journey begins aboard Flynn's ship, which serves as the central hub where all missions and levels are accessed. Operations out on the deck require tactical squad selection: only two skylanders can be sent out on a mission at a time. Once deployed, the player must complete each mission's objectives with the chosen characters. You cannot simply walk away whenever you please; you can only leave a stage once you have successfully achieved your goals, if both active characters are defeated, or by bailing out, which unfortunately cancels any progress made to the level. Fortunately, fallen heroes are not left behind for good. Skylanders can be revived from within the mission for a fee, and they are also automatically revived once you return safely to Flynn's ship.

Separating itself from home console counterparts, the 3DS version handles character progression through a completely unique system. Rather than purchasing upgrades from a non-player character, figure abilities are unlocked strictly by leveling up through gameplay. Because of this distinct progression design, character stats and unlocked traits are not transferable from one version of the game to another. Furthermore, 3DS skylanders all boast the built-in ability to jump. This mechanic becomes vital for completing levels successfully as the environmental platforming grows progressively more complex and demanding throughout your adventure.

Collectors and players diving into physical hardware bundles will also note specific retail packaging variations. The standard starter pack comes fully equipped with three distinct skylanders figures: Cynder, Punch Pop Fizz, and Tree Rex. Alternatively, players picking up the dedicated Portal Owners Pack will find that only Tree Rex is included in the box. Whether you are scaling intricate platforming gaps, managing your active duo on Flynn's ship, or leveling up your favorite heroes to unlock devastating new powers, Skylanders Giants delivers a tailored and captivating handheld expedition.