Cave Story brings 8-bit platforming to the 3DS. However, an uncertain 3D visual style and the challenge of accommodating touch screen controls still leave a lot to be answered by this darling of old school gamers.

Cave Story is one of those games deemed worthy of adoration by hardcore gaming fans. Originally free on the PC (and later available on Wii-ware and DSi-ware), it features classic 2D platforming in a homage to games like Metroid, Castlevania and even Jet Set Willy.

The game pits you as an amnesiac character who wakes up in a cave. As you explore a plot unfolds about a megalomaniac Doctor trying to conquer the world. Of course, it's down to you to stop him -- with a combination of well timed jumps, lots of running and a bit of puzzle solving.

Cave Story 3D is a remake of the game for the 3DS. Rather than a simple up-scaling of the two dimensional visuals, Cave Story 3D promises entirely new clay-mation models in place of the pixelated original.

The challenge here is for the developer to create a new three dimensional aesthetic without undoing the quirky retro feel of the original game. It will also be critical that the pricing is judged correctly for this first boxed outing of the game.

Cave Story 3d is expected to be released on 11th November 2011 on the 3DS.