Links

Twitch

CRITIK

Astro Bot

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Astro Bot
Item: Astro Bot
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Action, Science Fiction and Futuristic, Third Person Perspective, Platformer, Single Player

AvailableSep 6, 2024

PlatformPlayStation 5

DeveloperTeam Asobi

Overview

When the PS5 mothership is attacked by Astro’s long-standing galactic nemesis, scrambling its wires and scattering the crew throughout space, only Astro can make things right! Setting off on his biggest mission yet, he needs your help to rescue the stranded crew and rebuild the mothership. Make the most of Astro’s new power-ups, handcrafted to level up your immersion: from springy punches and rockets all the way to a giant sponge! Buckle up for some epic PlayStation camaraderie, join forces with your favourite PlayStation icons and show the universe that small is mighty in this fresh new Astro adventure, exclusive to PS5 consoles!

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Critik Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

67%

Mixed (50-79)

33%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions of the critics regarding the story of Astro Bot are generally positive, with many highlighting the lighthearted and engaging nature of the narrative. Critics like CGMagazine, Checkpoint Gaming, and Digital Chumps appreciate the silly and fun storyline that serves as a backdrop for the gameplay, with elements of positivity, self-awareness, and meta references. The inclusion of PlayStation-related cameos and references, as noted by GamingBolt, adds depth and nostalgia to the overall experience. The story's focus on rescuing crew members and rebuilding a mothership, as mentioned by COGconnected and Gamepressure, provides a clear objective for players to follow while exploring diverse environments and uncovering hidden collectibles. Despite the positive aspects of the story, some critics express reservations about its simplicity and lack of depth. Metro GameCentral and Radio Times note the minimal setup and emotional attachment due to the absence of voice acting and repetitive main quest, respectively. While the story effectively sets up the platforming adventure, as observed by New Game Network, Worth Playing criticizes the plot for being straightforward and serving as an excuse to celebrate PlayStation's history without offering substantial narrative development. The absence of a consistent antagonist, as pointed out by Digital Chumps, and the generic nature of main bosses, as highlighted by Worth Playing, also detract from the overall storytelling experience. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that the story of Astro Bot effectively complements the gameplay by providing a fun and engaging narrative that incorporates elements of PlayStation history and charm. While some critics acknowledge the simplicity and lack of depth in the storyline, the majority appreciate the lighthearted nature of the plot and its ability to immerse players in a whimsical world filled with adventure and nostalgia. By focusing on themes of friendship, rescue missions, and exploration, Astro Bot succeeds in delivering an enjoyable storytelling experience that resonates with fans of the genre, as noted by critics like Checkpoint Gaming and GAMINGbible.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics praise Astro Bot for its lighthearted and engaging narrative, filled with positivity, self-awareness, and PlayStation nostalgia. The story's focus on rescuing crew members and rebuilding a mothership gives players a clear objective while exploring diverse environments. However, some critics find the story simplistic and lacking depth, with minimal emotional attachment and repetitive quests. Overall, Astro Bot's story effectively complements the gameplay with fun and charm, despite its narrative shortcomings.

Gameplay Mechanics

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

100%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The majority of critics praised the gameplay of Astro Bot for its tight controls, innovative mechanics, and creative level design. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming, Digital Spy, and PlayStation LifeStyle highlighted the precision-perfect gameplay, tight controls, and inventive level design that kept the experience fresh and exciting. The game was commended for its variety of enemies, abilities, and power-ups that added tactical depth, as noted by COGconnected and GamingBolt. Additionally, the integration of the DualSense controller's capabilities enhanced the overall gameplay experience, as mentioned by Gamepressure and TechRadar Gaming. The introduction of new ideas and gadgets throughout the game, as emphasized by IGN and Inverse, contributed to keeping players engaged and delighted with the platforming experience. While the gameplay of Astro Bot received high praise from the majority of critics, some mentioned minor drawbacks. Metro GameCentral pointed out that the platforming abilities were somewhat limited, and the game was relatively easy. Digital Chumps noted some repetitiveness in common enemies but highlighted the fantastic boss fights that added excitement to the gameplay. These criticisms suggest that while Astro Bot excelled in many aspects of its gameplay, there were areas where it could have offered more challenge or variety to enhance the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the gameplay of Astro Bot is overwhelmingly positive. The game was lauded for its tight and rewarding platforming, diverse set of abilities, creative level design, and engaging mechanics that kept players entertained throughout their journey. Critics appreciated the balance of challenge and accessibility, the introduction of new gameplay elements as levels progressed, and the seamless integration of platforming and combat. With a focus on joy, wonder, and mechanical inventiveness, Astro Bot succeeded in delivering a fun and satisfying 3D platforming experience that resonated with a wide range of players, as reflected in the positive sentiments expressed by the majority of reviewers.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics rave about Astro Bot's gameplay for its tight controls, innovative mechanics, and creative level design. The game stands out for its variety of enemies, abilities, and power-ups that add tactical depth. Integration of the DualSense controller enhances the experience. While some critics point out minor limitations like easy platforming abilities and repetitiveness in enemies, the fantastic boss fights add excitement. Overall, Astro Bot impresses with its engaging gameplay, diverse abilities, and seamless integration of platforming and combat, delivering a fun and satisfying 3D platforming experience that resonates with players.

Graphics and Visual Design

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

97%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The majority of critics unanimously praised the Graphics and Visual Design of Astro Bot, highlighting its stunning visuals, vibrant colors, and attention to detail. CGMagazine commended the game for its "explosive colors, attention to detail, and varied environments that out-Nintendo Nintendo," while Checkpoint Gaming and COGconnected both emphasized the game's exquisite presentation, vibrant colors, and visually captivating experience. Digital Chumps and Digital Spy also noted the game's creative and entertaining visuals, setting a new standard for future Astro games. Additionally, Gamepressure appreciated the beautiful candy-colored graphic design with unique visual styles for each planet, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. While the overwhelming sentiment towards Astro Bot's Graphics and Visual Design was positive, some critics did point out minor shortcomings. Noisy Pixel mentioned that while the game features beautifully designed stages with nostalgic references to classic PlayStation IPs, it suffers from generic and uninspired enemy designs. This critique suggests that while the overall visual experience is impressive, there may be room for improvement in certain aspects of the design to elevate the game even further. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Astro Bot. Critics such as GameSpot, GAMINGbible, and Push Square praised the game for its varied, whimsical aesthetics, superb image quality, and smooth performance, respectively. The game's ability to evoke nostalgia, creativity, and charm through its colorful and detailed environments resonated with many reviewers, making it a standout title on the PlayStation 5. Astro Bot's visual design not only captivated players with its vibrant colors and imaginative worlds but also effectively utilized the PS5's capabilities, such as the DualSense controller features, to enhance the overall gaming experience. In conclusion, Astro Bot's Graphics and Visual Design received high acclaim from critics, solidifying its position as a visually stunning and immersive gaming experience on the PS5.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Astro Bot dazzles critics with explosive colors, attention to detail, and varied environments, setting a new standard for visuals in gaming. While some note minor flaws like generic enemy designs, overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive, praising its whimsical aesthetics, superb image quality, and innovative use of PS5 features. A visually stunning and immersive experience that stands out on the PlayStation 5.

Music and Sound Design

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

93%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The majority of critics unanimously praised the Sound Design and Music of Astro Bot, highlighting its exceptional qualities. CGMagazine commended the game for its "incredible soundtrack with varied genres, high-tempo tracks, and thematic remixes for PlayStation-themed levels," showcasing the richness of the audio experience that enhances immersion. Checkpoint Gaming also lauded the captivating soundtrack, mentioning how it perfectly complements the game's upbeat and playful atmosphere, while also emphasizing the immersive sound design that enhances the overall gameplay experience. Additionally, Digital Spy mentioned that Astro Bot features one of the best soundtracks to ever grace a 3D platformer, with satisfying particle effects and sounds that elevate the overall experience. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, a few critics pointed out some minor drawbacks in the Sound Design and Music of Astro Bot. Gamepressure noted that the soundtrack could be occasionally repetitive, although it did have pleasant surprises like the memorable singing tree's song. Wccftech mentioned that while the soundtrack was charming, it was limited in variety, with some earworms that stuck with the player. These criticisms, however, were overshadowed by the numerous positive aspects highlighted by the majority of reviewers, emphasizing the overall excellence of the game's audio elements. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the Sound Design and Music of Astro Bot. Critics like IGN praised the game for its consistent delight in the soundtrack, with tantalizing depths and secrets revealed through the levels, while also appreciating the immersive audio flourishes and DualSense controller feedback that enhance the gameplay experience. The majority of reviewers, including COGconnected and Push Square, highlighted the stellar soundtrack that complements the joy of exploration and gameplay, showcasing the exceptional use of sound design elements to create a truly immersive and engaging audio experience. Overall, Astro Bot's Sound Design and Music were widely regarded as a standout feature of the game, contributing significantly to its overall excellence and enjoyment for players.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Astro Bot's sound design and music received high praise from critics for its exceptional quality, diverse genres, and immersive experience. While some noted minor drawbacks like occasional repetitiveness, the majority highlighted the game's outstanding soundtrack and immersive sound design that enhance gameplay. Overall, critics overwhelmingly lauded Astro Bot for its stellar audio elements, with IGN praising its consistency and immersive qualities, making it a standout feature of the game.

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

86%

Mixed (50-79)

14%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In terms of technical performance on the PS5, Astro Bot received high praise from the majority of critics. CGMagazine highlighted the effective utilization of the PlayStation 5 hardware, particularly the unique features of the DualSense controller and gyro controls. Dexerto commended the game for its flawless performance, with no frame dips, bugs, or noticeable load times, providing a refined experience. Several critics, including Hey Poor Player and Push Square, noted the smooth 60 frames-per-second performance without any reported hiccups or technical issues. Additionally, critics like Metro GameCentral and VGC emphasized the game's impressive visuals, force feedback, and precise controls, showcasing the game's technical prowess on the PS5. While the overall sentiment towards Astro Bot's technical performance on the PS5 was overwhelmingly positive, there were a few minor issues reported by some critics. GameSpot mentioned experiencing two crashes that erased progress, indicating potential stability issues that need to be addressed. PSX Extreme noted that while some players reported minor bugs, the reviewer personally encountered little to none. Despite these isolated incidents, the general consensus among critics is that the technical performance of Astro Bot on the PS5 was very good, with the positives far outweighing the negatives. In conclusion, the consensus among critics regarding the technical performance of Astro Bot on the PS5 is highly favorable. The game was lauded for its smooth performance, lack of technical issues, and effective utilization of the PlayStation 5 hardware features, such as the DualSense controller. Critics like Digital Trends and Stevivor praised the game for maintaining smooth gameplay without sacrificing performance for visuals. Overall, the majority of critics found Astro Bot to deliver a polished and immersive gaming experience on the PS5, solidifying its reputation as a technically impressive title across the board.

TL;DR

technical performance

Astro Bot on the PS5 wowed critics with flawless performance, smooth 60fps gameplay, and stunning visuals. While minor issues like crashes were reported, overall consensus remains highly positive, highlighting its technical prowess in utilizing PlayStation 5 features like the DualSense controller.

Replay Value

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

87%

Mixed (50-79)

13%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The majority of critics praised the replay value of Astro Bot, highlighting its abundance of content, hidden collectibles, challenging levels, and additional features that encourage players to revisit the game. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and Dexerto appreciated the game's focus on exploration, with hidden collectibles and optional challenging levels adding depth to the gameplay experience. Hey Poor Player and PlayStation LifeStyle commended the engaging mechanics and well-hidden content that incentivize players to aim for 100% completion, extending the gameplay time and providing a memorable adventure. Additionally, the inclusion of various secrets, Easter eggs, and customization options, as noted by Digital Trends and IGN, adds emotional value and further enhances the replayability of the game. On the flip side, some critics, such as Digital Spy and Metro GameCentral, mentioned potential limitations to the replay value due to the linear nature of the game or the lack of certain features like named cameo characters. While the linear structure may not appeal to all players seeking varied gameplay experiences, the overall sentiment leans heavily towards the positive aspects of Astro Bot's replay value. The relatively short runtime, as highlighted by PSX Extreme and Worth Playing, could be seen as a drawback for those looking for longer gameplay sessions, but the additional content, hidden challenges, and collectibles compensate for this aspect, making it worthwhile for completionists and those seeking added challenges. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the replay value of Astro Bot. The game's diverse range of content, including collectibles, hidden levels, customization options, and challenging mini-levels, cater to players of all skill levels and ages, ensuring an engaging and rewarding experience for those seeking to explore every corner of the game. With the majority of critics praising the game's replayability and the various incentives it offers for completionists, Astro Bot stands out as a title that provides substantial value and enjoyment through multiple playthroughs, solidifying its position as a standout title with excellent replay value in the gaming landscape.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics laud Astro Bot's replay value for its rich content, hidden collectibles, and challenging levels that encourage multiple playthroughs. While some mention limitations like linearity, the overwhelming consensus is positive, praising the game's engaging mechanics, well-hidden content, and additional features. With an emphasis on exploration and 100% completion, Astro Bot offers a memorable adventure with diverse content appealing to players of all levels, making it a standout title with excellent replay value in the gaming industry.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

99%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

Astro Bot has garnered widespread acclaim from the majority of critics, with many hailing it as a masterpiece that celebrates PlayStation's legacy and offers a truly exceptional gaming experience. Positive aspects highlighted by reviewers include the game's innovative use of the PS5 hardware capabilities, engaging gameplay, charming visuals, and nostalgic references. Critics like CGMagazine and Checkpoint Gaming commend Astro Bot for maximizing the system's hardware capabilities and solidifying Astro Bot as a beloved character and a triumphant mascot for PlayStation. The game's vibrant celebration of PlayStation's history, creative level design, and delightful platforming mechanics are also lauded by critics such as Gamepressure and Noisy Pixel. On the downside, some critics pointed out minor flaws in Astro Bot, such as lack of variety in common enemies, issues with combat and checkpointing, and difficulty spikes. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment towards Astro Bot remains overwhelmingly positive. Critics like Metro GameCentral acknowledge flaws in platforming abilities and naming cameo characters but still consider the game as one of the best 3D platformers ever made. Similarly, Wccftech mentions minor issues like difficulty spikes and limited soundtrack variety but still describes Astro Bot as a fun and whimsical platformer that celebrates Sony's heritage. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Astro Bot is a standout title that excels in various aspects, making it a must-play for PlayStation fans and gamers alike. The game is praised for its engaging gameplay, vibrant visuals, nostalgic music, and solid technical performance, with many critics considering it a Game of the Year contender. Critics like Hey Poor Player and PlayStation LifeStyle hail Astro Bot as a love letter to PlayStation's history and a strong contender for game of the year, while IGN and TechRadar Gaming commend its inventive gameplay, delightful audiovisual experience, and seamless blend of nostalgia and innovation. The overwhelming sentiment is that Astro Bot is a monumental triumph, offering a heartwarming trip down memory lane for PlayStation fans and standing as a masterpiece that celebrates the essence of video games.

TL;DR

Astro Bot is a hailed masterpiece that celebrates PlayStation's legacy, offering exceptional gaming experience with innovative use of PS5 capabilities, engaging gameplay, charming visuals, and nostalgic references. Critics praise its vibrant celebration of PlayStation's history and solidify Astro Bot as a beloved character. Despite minor flaws like lack of enemy variety and difficulty spikes, the game excels in various aspects, making it a must-play for PlayStation fans. Overall, Astro Bot is seen as a standout title that blends nostalgia and innovation, with many considering it a Game of the Year contender.

CRITIK

Reviews

213 reviews found

100

GAMINGbible

PlayStation 5

Sep 5, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Astro Bot is a monumental triumph, carefully considered and impressive, offering a heartwarming trip down memory lane for PlayStation fans. Perfect score of 10/10.

Read full review

100

Inverse

PlayStation 5

Sep 5, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Astro Bot is hailed as a masterpiece, a creative and celebratory platformer that stands out in the genre, offering a rich gaming experience that is worth the time and investment.

Read full review

100

Hey Poor Player

PlayStation 5

Sep 6, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Astro Bot is praised for its engaging gameplay, vibrant visuals, nostalgic music, and solid technical performance. It is described as a love letter to PlayStation's history and a must-play for fans of the platforming genre. The reviewer gives it a perfect score of 5/5, hailing it as a Game of the Year contender.

Read full review

100

Daily Star

PlayStation 5

Sep 5, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Astro Bot is praised as a fantastic game with a 5/5 rating, recommended for all gamers.

Read full review

100

GINX TV

PlayStation 5

Sep 5, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Astro Bot is praised for blending innovation and nostalgia, offering a delightful platforming experience that celebrates PlayStation's legacy.

Read full review

100

PlayStation LifeStyle

PlayStation 5

Sep 5, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Astro Bot is praised as an oasis in the gaming world, standing as an absolute masterpiece packed with charm, creativity, and a genuine love for video games, making it a strong contender for game of the year.

Read full review

100

Twinfinite

PlayStation 5

Sep 5, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Astro Bot is a magical and inventive platformer that sits alongside the best in the genre, providing moments of pure joy and endless possibilities for future adventures.

Read full review

100

CGMagazine

PlayStation 5

Sep 5, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

ASTRO BOT is a standout game on the PlayStation 5 that maximizes the system's hardware capabilities and offers a fun and engaging experience for all players.

Read full review

100

VGC

PlayStation 5

Sep 5, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Astro Bot is a generationally impressive platformer that understands PlayStation's legacy at an atomic level. It is a truly outstanding game with tight platforming, inventive gameplay, and a remarkable soundtrack.

Read full review

100

Dexerto

PlayStation 5

Sep 9, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Astro Bot is highly recommended as a must-buy for PS5 owners, offering a sublime and well-rounded gaming experience that celebrates PlayStation's heritage and the capabilities of the new hardware.

Read full review