Lode Runner 3-D takes the old-school digging and dodging formula and throws it into full 3D on the N64. At first, the shift from 2D sprites to polygonal characters feels a little weird—like seeing your childhood cartoon reimagined in CGI—but it works. You're still digging holes to trap enemies, grabbing gold, and scrambling to the exit, but now you're doing it in these layered, maze-like stages where depth actually matters.

The controls take some getting used to—this isn't a precision platformer like Mario 64, more of a slow-burn puzzle thing where you plan your route while those little monk enemies shamble after you. The real fun comes from figuring out how to manipulate the terrain, dropping enemies into pits or tricking them into walking into your traps. Some levels feel like they drag on a bit, but when the solutions click, it's satisfying as hell.

Honestly, the graphics haven't aged great (what N64 game has?), but the core gameplay still holds up if you're into methodical, think-on-your-feet challenges. Just don't go in expecting a fast-paced action game.