When I finally got my dream PlayStation 5 several years ago, the first game I played was Astro’s Playroom. Out of all the games I had been waiting to play that special day, I decided to give a shot to Astro, and oh boy, it completely blew me away. It was rightly called the PS5’s tech demo and made you feel the new console’s power. After 4 years, Astro, PlayStation’s mascot, has a complete game called “Astro Bot” from the same Team ASOBI.
Thanks to Sony and Team ASOBI for providing us with a copy, I was able to deep dive into the Astro Bot universe early and experience its new adventures. After platforming my way as Astro through the perils of his realm, here is my review of PS5’s newest 3D action platformer, Astro Bot.
A Captain’s Smooth Sailing Tale
Astro Bot takes players on a grand adventure in the Astro Bot universe, following a high-spirited robotic hero. The story begins when a space alien bully destroys the mothership, aka PS5, scattering the friendly crew of bots across the universe. As the captain, players must use their Dual Speeder to rescue all 300 bots and recover the mothership's components.
The narrative is straightforward yet engaging, filled with joyful moments and challenges. Players encounter grumpy adversaries and bot versions of PlayStation’s most iconic heroes, making the journey both fun and nostalgic.
A Ravishing Journey Through Diverse Biomes
In Astro Bot, players embark on an exciting journey through various galaxies, each featuring distinct and vibrant planets inspired by themes like Aztec and Haunted Mansion. The world is meticulously crafted, ensuring a rich visual experience. Team ASOBI has worked hard to keep the gameplay fresh and engaging by overhauling their engine and enhancing the graphics.
The environments are full of life, and many parts are interactable, contributing to an immersive atmosphere. Players will appreciate the attention to detail in the design of each biome, ensuring no two planets feel the same.
Modernistic Platformer Functioning in Perfect Harmony
For those familiar with Astro’s Playroom, the gameplay loop in Astro Bot will feel familiar yet refreshed. Instead of collecting artifacts, players are focused on rescuing their fellow bots. Each planet presents unique challenges, from tiny foes to gigantic adversaries, demanding skill and strategy to collect all the bots and hidden secrets.
If players struggle in certain areas, they can revisit them to find helpful birds that guide them towards collectibles. This feature encourages exploration without the need for online guides, enhancing the overall experience.
Delightful Power-Ups
The game introduces numerous power-ups at each level, which not only aid in combat but also enhance traversal across tricky platforms. Each power-up is cleverly integrated into the gameplay, ensuring players utilize them effectively. Examples include the chicken power-up, which helps players soar like a rocket.
While power-ups like Twin-Frog Gloves and Barkster the Bulldog booster add excitement, their limited usage can lead to some repetition. However, the overall design ensures that platforming remains entertaining throughout the game.
DualSense Controllers Are a Boon
The DualSense Controllers play a crucial role in enhancing the gameplay experience in Astro Bot. Features like tilting and mic breathing are seamlessly incorporated, making actions feel more immersive. The precise controls allow players to navigate challenges smoothly, while haptic feedback and adaptive triggers amplify the gaming experience.
This attention to detail in the controller's functionality adds a layer of enjoyment, making players feel connected to the character and the world around them.
Masterfully Crafted Levels
Team ASOBI has excelled in simplifying the platforming formula, making it accessible to players of all skill levels. Each level is ingeniously designed around the various power-ups, showcasing the developers' creativity. Players will encounter unique mechanics, like lighting invisible platforms with special bulbs and navigating day-night switching areas.
These inventive designs challenge the conventional notion of platformers, offering a refreshing take on the genre. The inclusion of PlayStation’s iconic heroes and delightful surprises adds to the enjoyment, making Astro Bot a standout title in 3D action platforming.
Difficulty Done Right
Astro Bot strikes a perfect balance in difficulty, remaining challenging yet enjoyable. The game follows a linear structure, requiring players to defeat enemies and navigate platforms to rescue their fellow bots. Checkpoints are strategically placed, alleviating frustration from repeated gameplay after dying from a single hit.
While some enemies are reskinned versions from the prequel, the quirky boss fights provide a thrilling challenge. Additional lives during these encounters help mitigate frustration and keep the gameplay engaging.
Recreational Centre
As players progress, they can transform the empty land into a joyful recreational center for rescued bots. Collecting puzzle pieces unlocks various features, including a Gatcha store and a Fashion store. Players can spend coins on special items, costumes, and controller skins, adding a creative aspect to the game.
This feature encourages players to strive for 100% completion, enhancing the overall enjoyment and rewarding exploration and collection.
Euphonic Soundtrack to Jazz Up Our Expeditions
Astro Bot not only impresses with visuals but also offers an exceptional soundtrack. Composer Kenneth C. M. Young returns to deliver a delightful score that complements the gameplay experience. Each track fits the various galaxies players explore, enhancing the emotional connection to the game.
The sound effects are well-synced with the DualSense controller’s features, further elevating the overall experience. Together, the music and sound create an immersive atmosphere that captivates players throughout their journey.
Performance
Worried about performance issues? Fear not! Astro Bot runs smoothly on the PS5, with no bugs or glitches reported during play. Unlike other PS5 titles, there’s no option for performance or fidelity mode, but the game operates seamlessly in 4K, providing stunning visuals.
Players can enjoy the game on different setups, and the HDR quality settings ensure a visually appealing experience. For the best experience, it’s recommended to use a high-resolution display to fully appreciate Astro Bot’s beauty.
Team ASOBI’s Love Letter to PlayStation
Initially, I questioned whether Astro Bot needed its standalone title, given the success of Astro’s Playroom. However, after diving into the game, I realized that Astro Bot is a delightful, lighthearted adventure filled with excitement and surprises. Team ASOBI has crafted a modern 3D platforming experience that invites everyone to enjoy a colorful journey.
While the price tag may be steep, the joy Astro Bot brings to long-time PlayStation fans and newcomers alike makes it worthwhile. The memorable final act and amusing credit sequences leave a lasting impression, making Astro Bot a must-play title!
So, if you’re looking for a fun and engaging platformer, dive into Astro Bot’s universe—trust me, you won’t regret it!
