Whatever the case, in my opinion, playing Donkey Kong 64 was like a rapid descent into madness. Uncountable items to tediously collect, a motley cast of unappealing buffoons, and a method for making a player traverse the same levels five times over left a taste in my mouth more vile than even the furriest piece of leftover anchovy pizza. Kazooie rides along in Banjo's backpack providing air support and speed while Banjo provides brute strength and climbing mobility throughout the game. The duo share action and adventure while saving their home and rescuing friends from a trio of evil witches. The game takes place on an island split up into 10 absolutely huge worlds which are all interconnected in a more holistic and unified fashion than most games.
Progress is made by exploring every nook and cranny of the levels for various items along the way.
One of the things I like best about the game is the characters. Banjo and Kazooie make a great team, and complement each other perfectly. The design of the pair is appealing and the dialogue is generally snappy as well, while not straying too far into the dry, English-style patter that distastefully colors some of the other Rare titles. They frequently reference themselves as being characters in a game, and also to their sequel status. Besides the appeal of the bear and bird, the real meat and potatoes of Banjo-Kazooie is how the various moves are implemented.