If you were a 90’s kid like me, I’m sure the name Crash Bandicoot will definitely ring a bell. In a time that was dominated by Mario and Sonic, old CB here was the cool new 3D kid on the block that spun his way into our hearts back on the 32-bit console.
And now the beloved Bandicoot returns to once again charm a new generation of gamers. Will the tried and tested formula get the attention of a new audience? Or is it best reserved for the old-schoolers? We take a look at the remastered Crash Bandicoot N Sane Trilogy!
From Developer Vicarious Visions, Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy collection includes all the remastered versions of Crash Bandicoot, Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back, and Crash Bandicoot: Warped.
Instantly noticeable are the polished graphics that is a far cry from the the blocky character models from games gone by. In all three games we are treated with much more vibrant environment that has a much more realistic feel to it. But don’t be fooled, it is still as cartoony as it has ever been!
Though the graphics went through a complete overhaul, it is worth mentioning that they retained the almost pinpoint platforming perfection that the game is known for. Crash Bandicoot is known for those tough leaps, reverse chase sequences and of course, collecting every relic in the level. All of those mentioned are still intact and feel as rewarding as it was 20 years ago. Here’s a rundown of all 3 games, starting with the original Crash Bandicoot.
Crash Bandicoot
The original game that started it all, though fun and charming as it was, even with its brand-new shine is clearly the weakest of the three games. For some reason I found the first one to be more baddie-oriented than the rest (which could be a good or a bad thing). Don’t get me wrong, all the mechanics that would pave the way for future games is here, but it would be later perfected by its successors. It doesn’t mean that being the last in line makes for a bad game, because it is still good, but if I have to rank it, then yes CB1 is back there.
Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back
Cortex Strikes Back for me is the overall best in the package. The developers really hit the ballpark with this one even before in its original release, more so now with the updated tweaks. The second entry provides a nice balance in maintaining both fun while upping the difficulty and the thrill of attempting a level just to complete the extra objectives. There are only a few games that strike a perfect balance in making a good platformer, and CB2 is way up with the rest of them. I have to say that the overall experience is better than ever, and I’m glad that they did good with the second installment.
Crash Bandicoot: Warped
The series is rounded up by the fantastic Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped. Clearly the best addition in the game were the vehicle levels and the multitude of weapons at Crash’s disposal (yes the Wumpa Fruit rocket launcher is back!) that made playing all the more interesting. Though the levels might not seems as punishing as the previous game, it is still a solid entry that puts it 2nd place on my list.
The last neat addition they made in the game is when you are able to play as Crash’s sister, Coco. Though I’m glad that she was brought here, for some reason I found not much change in gameplay when I switched characters. It’s a nice change of pace though seeing the game with a whole new set of character animations.
Verdict: 8/10
Vicarious Visions brought the character back not only for a new set of gamers to enjoy, but for the old die-hards to revisit as well.
The Good:
- Like before, it is still a great platforming game
- Updated visuals are not just cosmetic, they now provide enemies with tells
- Vibrant and charming as ever
The Bad:
- There are really some punishing levels that might frustrate some people
- Having played all three, now I’m hoping that they release CRASH TEAM RACING!