Toys for Bob and Activision have proven themselves worthy custodians for Crash in recent years. With Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time they have improved on the formula of the original titles in every single way. It’s n-sane that a revitalised 90s franchise can hold up so well in today’s market.
Crash Bandicoot 4 (Ever)
Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time features all of the precision that players have come to expect from the franchise alongside some new mechanics. Players must harness the power of four ‘Quantum Masks’ to help Crash and Co. navigate levels and kick Cortex into touch. The new mechanics aren’t forced on players. Less than 50% of each level features these new gimmicks, which keeps things fresh yet familiar.
Like previous titles, Crash Bandicoot 4 mixes 2D and 3D platforming to once again delay any possible player fatigue. Challenging platform elements are smeared across the landscape, proving frustrating yet immensely rewarding. This is condensed significantly when facing Crash Bandicoot‘s multi-part boss fights. Whilst the game rarely lets up in these parts, the glory of Asgard awaits players mighty enough to push through.
Control Yourself!
Controls are tight and meticulously calibrated for the game’s demand for precision and timing. Crash Bandicoot 4 pushes players to make use of the D-pad and thumbstick within the same level for various situations. For example, an escape sequence feels more natural with a thumbstick with the D-pad feeling best for any 2D or sticky situations. Nothing feels impossible in Crash 4, although it will make you work for every success.
Each level is contained on an island much like previous entries, with a boss battle blocking access to the next island of levels. Each Island has a ‘Hidden Tape’ level of sorts which sees test footage of Crash back when he has a fresh Cortex experiment. These bonus stages serve as bragging rights for achieving a certain goal using a certain technique.
Wardrobe?
An odd focus in Crash Bandicoot 4 is unlockable costumes. Whilst it’s a great mechanics idea to have unlockables, the appeal of Crash wearing any kind of upper body clothing is wrong. These are easily unlocked in-game simply by progressing through. It’s simply an extra mechanic for the sake of having it and in the name of fun.
The overall presentation of Crash Bandicoot 4 is a bundle of super-smooth frame rates and some beautiful textures. Crash and Co. have had a visual overhaul, but it’s respectful of its source material in every way. From character animations to yeeting enemies off-screen, players will spot a lot of similarities to the n-sane Trilogy instantly.
Sounds Like Crash
The soundtrack for Crash Bandicoot 4 pays homage to the original right from the start with the usual xylophone jingle. Players will notice the OST taking risks as players are introduced to new mechanics, which cements the successful transition of Crash into relevancy once again. Original sound effects make a welcome return alongside the new for Quantum abilities. The great sound effects work once again shows off Toys for Bobs ability to mix old with new to make a superior product overall.
Crash Bandicoot 4 is the sequel to a beloved PlayStation franchise we all deserved. It’s pick-up-and-play goals coupled with its 90s attitude places it well amongst today’s competition. With more content and challenges than ever before, it’s not a question of why players should buy, but when?
What’s your favourite Crash memory from the 90s? Sound off below!
Review code provided by PR
