Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time is a long-awaited sequel that successfully captures the essence of the original trilogy while introducing new elements to keep the gameplay fresh. Developed by Toys for Bob and published by Activision, this game delivers a nostalgic experience for fans of the franchise.
The story of Crash Bandicoot 4 picks up right where Crash Bandicoot: Warped left off. Neo Cortex and Dr. N. Tropy have escaped their prison, causing a tear in the fabric of space and time. Crash and his sister Coco, along with their friends, must embark on a journey through various dimensions to stop the villains and restore order.
Visually, Crash Bandicoot 4 is stunning. The vibrant and detailed environments truly bring the game to life. From lush jungles to futuristic cities, each level is beautifully designed with a mix of platforming challenges, enemy encounters, and hidden collectibles. The character models are well-crafted, capturing the charm of Crash and his friends.
The gameplay in Crash Bandicoot 4 stays true to its roots, with precise platforming and challenging obstacles. The controls are tight, allowing for precise movements and jumps. The levels are filled with hazards, including spinning blades, bottomless pits, and tricky platform sequences. The difficulty ramps up as you progress, providing a satisfying challenge for seasoned players.
One of the standout features of Crash Bandicoot 4 is the ability to play as different characters. In addition to Crash and Coco, you can play as Tawna, Dingodile, and Dr. Neo Cortex. Each character has unique abilities that add variety to the gameplay and open up new paths in levels. This adds depth to the game and encourages replayability.
The game also introduces new gameplay mechanics, such as the ability to phase-shift objects in and out of existence, manipulate gravity, and slow down time. These mechanics are cleverly integrated into the level design, offering fresh and exciting gameplay moments. However, some of these mechanics can feel a bit gimmicky and may not appeal to all players.
Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time also features a robust customization system, allowing you to unlock different skins and outfits for the characters. While these cosmetic upgrades don't impact gameplay, they add a fun element of personalization.
However, the game is not without its flaws. The difficulty spikes in certain levels can be frustrating, and some sections may require numerous retries to overcome. Additionally, the camera angles can be problematic at times, hindering visibility and leading to unnecessary deaths.
Overall, Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time is a worthy addition to the Crash Bandicoot franchise. It successfully blends nostalgia with new gameplay elements, providing an enjoyable and challenging experience. With its stunning visuals, tight controls, and variety of characters, this game is a must-play for fans of the series and platforming enthusiasts alike.
Rating: 8/10
