Well i got the game the day it came out, beat it three days later. Honestly idk how it could be hard to finish. Sure they pull a good one on you after you defeat medusa on chapter 9, to find out it goes to chapter 25!
For people who say the controls are terrible, I agree. I'm left handed and dont have the money for some circle pad pro to switch sides. But what i did was keep the circle pad to move but I switched the camera moving option to turn, instead of touch screen I went to options and made the A, B, X, Y buttons as the camera moving, like arrows. After that it became extremely easy to move. The first chapter was like "Wow how does anyone play this?" But after switching it, it became so easy. Then you can get in touch with what the designers really wanted. The graphics are amazing in 2D, but especially in 3D. I only use 3D for air battles because it requires you to be completely still to work, which you just cant do on land. The humor in the game is great too. Example: (remember this is during battle)
Pit: Hey, Palutena?
Palutena: Yes, Pit?
Pit: Do you know how a chicken take three steps and forgets?
Palutena: What about it Pit?
Pit: Um..
Palutena: Pit? What about a chicken taking three steps and forgetting?
Pit: Err..
Palutena: Pit?!
Pit: Oh yeah. So you know how a chicken takes three steps and forgets?
Pretty funny actually. The weapon mechanics are great too. The higher intensity you play on, the easier it is too get more powerful weapons. The currency, hearts, also has a good system. The harder you make the chapter, the more hearts you get for killing enemies, but if you are defeated, you lose more hearts. It's a great risk/reward system. The multiplayer is fun too. Although Nintendo isnt exactly known for its great wifi connections, you can usually get a good match working. If not, you can play computers and local people, still getting good rewards. Just like on any game you can make the CPUs more challenging, although this doesnt increase the rewards. There are many challenges, and many unlockable weapons.
Altogether I believe this game is a must-have for any gamer looking for fun. I highly recommend it to new and expierienced players alike.