After being relegated to smaller appearances in other Nintendo games over the span of more than 20 years, the popular angel Pit returns in his own title “Kid Icarus: Uprising” for the Nintendo 3DS. With such a long wait, expectations run high for “Kid Icarus” to reclaim its position as a top series. In the end, “Uprising” does meet those expectations, but makes some mistakes.
The storyline involves Pit and the goddess Lady Palutena against Medusa, Hades, the Underworld Army and mysterious space invaders. Whereas the original “Kid Icarus” games were side-scrollers, “Uprising” now places Pit in two different genres: on-air rail and third-person shooter. More time will be spent on the ground and Pit will meet unique enemies along the way, such as the classic Eggplant Wizard and crafty Tempura Wizard. 
As Pit travels through the different levels, the characters converse with each other on the bottom touch screen. This may distract some players, but the dialogue remains funny and makes several references to the original game, which is a nice touch.
With 25 chapters, the game runs quite long, impressive when considering today’s standards. There is also an online mode, practice range, and an Augmented Reality (AR) Card Battle mode where players can scan cards featuring characters from the game and watch them come to life and fight in 3D. Needless to say, players will have many ways to keep playing “Uprising.” 
The graphics look clear and detailed, with or without the 3D effects. When Pit flies over water during on-rail sections, the water seems real. Plus, there is good use of color throughout the levels and even the menu screen. 
Musically, the soundtrack captures the proper “Uprising” mood and prepares one for battle. From time to time, there will be remixes of songs from the old “Kid Icarus.” For example, the same “Game Over” theme from the original is present. The sound effects work well too, as the shots Pit fires from his weapons feel heavy and powerful. 
It is a shame the controls don’t match the impressive depth, visuals and sounds. The game comes with a 3DS stand, but without the stand the left hand must hold the 3DS by itself, while the right hand controls the weapon aim with the stylus. The left trigger shoots, and the circle pad moves Pit. This control scheme works okay for a while, although for extended sessions, use the stand.  
In addition, online play could improve. Players can either join a team or attempt to earn the most points in a free-for-all. But without any ability to use voice chat or write text messages, the experience is weakened. 
Overall, the negatives become offset by the sheer amount of playing time and extras. Switching between air and land gameplay keeps “Kid Icarus: Uprising” fresh. Gamers with a 3DS will be satisfied after picking this up, and hopefully it will not be another 20 years before the series revives again.