IGN hailed Pitfall 3D as one of the most successful attempts at 3D platforming to date, while acknowledging that it still had not solved the ongoing problem of the camera sometimes confounding the player's view. They particularly praised Activision's decision to keep movement primarily two-dimensional, thereby avoiding awkward control issues, and the way the game translates classic Pitfall elements into a three-dimensional world. Next Generation voiced no criticisms about the camera, but still considered the game a major disappointment, citing an inconsistent visual style, lack of gameplay innovation, and a game engine that had become outdated over the course of the game's long delays.
IGN regarded Pitfall 3D as one of the most successful attempts at 3D platforming to date, while acknowledging that it still hadn't resolved the ongoing issue of the camera sometimes confusing the player's view. They particularly praised Activision's decision to keep movement primarily two-dimensional, thereby avoiding awkward control issues, and the way the game adapted classic Pitfall elements into a three-dimensional world. Next Generation considered the game a major disappointment due to its inconsistent visual style, lack of innovation in gameplay, and outdated game engine.