PGC NEWS

Crash Bandicoot is back! Following the successful remasters of the N.Sane Trilogy and Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled, Activision has unleashed Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time, developed by Toys for Bob, the studio behind several Skylanders titles. Does this unexpected sequel live up to the legacy of the Naughty Dog originals? Let’s dive in and find out.

Crash Bandicoot 4

A True Crash Test of Skill

Crash Bandicoot 4 retains the franchise’s signature difficulty, arguably amplifying it. This stems from intricate level design and the introduction of new playable characters. Levels maintain the classic linear structure but offer clever shortcuts and hidden paths for skilled players to discover. Bonus stages and hidden gems are scattered throughout, rewarding exploration. Collecting all crates and gems unlocks new costumes for Crash and Coco and opens up time trial modes. Hidden tapes unlock challenging Flashback levels, adding further replay value.

Crash Bandicoot 4

The game introduces three new playable characters: Neo Cortex, Dingodile, and Tawna. Each offers a unique playstyle and dedicated levels designed around their abilities. Neo Cortex can transform enemies into platforms, Dingodile wields a vacuum gun, and Tawna utilizes a grappling hook. Four quantum masks grant special powers, like gravity manipulation, time slowing, and phasing, adding another layer of complexity to the gameplay. Players can now freely choose between Crash and Coco in the main story levels.

Modern and Retro Challenges

Two game modes cater to different skill levels: Retro Mode offers a limited number of lives, demanding careful play, while Modern Mode provides unlimited lives with checkpoints. A thoughtful touch ensures that checkpoints become more frequent after multiple deaths, preventing frustration. The inclusion of both modes makes the game accessible to both newcomers and seasoned veterans.

Crash Bandicoot 4

Level Design and Replayability

Crash Bandicoot 4 features 107 levels, offering a substantial amount of content. The meticulous level design requires precision and skill, with new challenges constantly introduced. While some familiar mechanics return, the unique character abilities and quantum masks keep the gameplay fresh and engaging. The Bandicoot Battle mode offers competitive local multiplayer options like Checkpoint Race and Crate Combo, further extending the game’s lifespan.

Crash Bandicoot 4

Presentation and Sound

The game boasts impressive visuals, with vibrant environments and detailed character animations. While some textures appear slightly rough, the overall art style is charming and captivating. Performance is smooth, maintaining a consistent frame rate even during chaotic sequences. The voice acting is solid, capturing the personality of each character, but the soundtrack, while pleasant, isn’t particularly memorable.

Room for Improvement

The story, while humorous, lacks depth and originality. Cutscenes often feel perfunctory, serving mainly to bridge levels. While the gameplay is the core focus, the narrative could have been more compelling. The Pass N. Play local co-op mode feels underwhelming, limiting player interaction. The linear level design, while challenging, lacks the open exploration and hidden secrets found in other platformers.

Crash Bandicoot 4

Conclusion

Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time delivers a challenging and nostalgic platforming experience. The refined gameplay, new characters, and quantum masks add welcome additions to the formula. While the story and some other aspects could have been improved, the game’s core strengths shine through. For fans craving a classic Crash experience with a modern twist, It’s About Time is worth checking out.

Crash Bandicoot 4