Genre: Action
Developer: Sonic Team
Publisher: Sega

Like most Playstation games, and all 3d 3DO games, NiGHTS is a bit of a cop-out; instead of utilizing a full 640x480 screen resolution, NiGHTS runs at 320x200. On the other hand, given the blistering pace the game manages to run at without any drop in framerate, I can understand the route the developers took. As well, the game is exceptionally pleasing to the eye, featuring some outstanding art work.

NiGHTS, in its entirety, represents the dreams of two children who, with victory, regain their lost confidence and conquer their inner demons. If wafty, floaty dream music could also sound haunting, cheerful, encouraging, or damning, all in various spots, then NiGHTS has managed to capture this plethora of sounds. Theatrical and melodic, the game's audio helps it to achieve its ends.

The game is predominantly spent rapidly flying through a 3d landscape in which you can only move two-dimensionally; as you follow each "course", whether it be from left to right or right to left, the screen twists and turns, driving you through all sorts of marvelous twists and turns. Level design is outstanding, and feature many surprising elements. The bizarre combination of racing, flying, and platforming comes off exceptionally and makes for a one of a kind experience.

NiGHTS is the type of game you could hand to a homocidal maniac in therapy and, after an hour or two, watch them walk away from the controller peaceful and content. The game only takes a few hours to play through completely, but this title is more "experience" than "game". It's fun wrapped up in wishes, dreams, and unreality. I would have preferred a more traditional title I suppose, but its contributions to gaming lore are worth at least giving this game a spin.