Tomba!

The Good
Or, at least, it is subjectively as it combines elements from RPGs into this compact, interconnected world of fantasy. The events are entertaining, the game is colourful ('psychedelic' would be a more accurate description), and the main character evolves along with the game.

The Bad
Unfortunately, there is very little character development (which, from what I remember, the second installment improved upon) - most NPCs have generally no past and interact with the main character only for the events to be realized, although, on the other hand, this is where the game concentrates on (129 events altogether, although the game could still be completed in under 10 hours if the player doesn't get stuck for more than the average amount of time on a puzzling one).

Another issue (which isn't necessarily a negative intrinsically, but might have put some people off) is the element of difficulty throughout the game. Especially with regards to the platforming, the game becomes progressively easier (Phoenix Mountain being a prime example of a before-and-after case, subsequent to the respective evil pig's sealing).

The Bottom Line
Generally, more of a platformer initially, an RPG-puzzler throughout and at the end. Mostly unique in its genre.