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CRITIK

Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time
Item: Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2020

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Platformer, Side View Perspective, Single Player

AvailableOct 2, 2020

PlatformPlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X, Xbox One

DeveloperToys for Bob

Overview

Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time is the eighth Crash Bandicoot series game, though the fourth chronologically. The game retains the series' core platforming gameplay and adds new elements through the use of the Quantum Masks, who can alter levels and provide means to traverse or overcome obstacles. It also includes additional game modes for replaying levels, and the ability to control five characters, three of whom – Cortex, Dingodile, and Tawna – have their own unique gameplay and levels.

Elsewhere

7.8

Game analysis

Critik Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

71%

Mixed (50-79)

29%

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 Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time are generally positive. Many critics appreciate the continuation of the classic Crash Bandicoot storyline, with familiar villains like Neo Cortex and N. Tropy causing chaos across different dimensions. GameSpot praises the time-traveling aspect of the story, adding depth to the narrative and taking players to vibrant environments. Worth Playing highlights the theme of defeating the forces of evil and restoring order to the world, which resonates with fans of the series. Additionally, Softpedia mentions the engaging plot of Crash and Coco teaming up to thwart the plans of Neo Cortex and his allies, providing a sense of familiarity and nostalgia for players. On the other hand, some critics express mixed feelings about the story of Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time. God is a Geek describes the story as throwaway, indicating that it may not be a significant aspect of the game for all players. The Sydney Morning Herald mentions that while the story involves collecting Quantum Masks to fix tears in space and time caused by villains, it may feel scattered between diverse eras and settings, potentially confusing newcomers to the series. These opinions suggest that the narrative may not resonate equally with all players and could be improved in terms of coherence and impact. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time delivers an enjoyable and engaging storyline that continues the legacy of the series. Critics like Attack of the Fanboy and GameSkinny appreciate the introduction of new characters and gameplay elements, adding depth to the familiar conflict between Crash and his adversaries. While some critics point out shortcomings in the storytelling, such as lack of significant impact or clarity, the majority acknowledge the game's ability to provide a fun and nostalgic experience for fans of the franchise. The diverse settings, humorous character interactions, and creative use of Quantum Masks contribute to a compelling narrative that keeps players invested in Crash's latest adventure.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics generally praise Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time for continuing the classic storyline with familiar villains across dimensions and engaging time-travel elements. While some critics find the story throwaway or scattered, most agree it offers an enjoyable and nostalgic experience with new characters and gameplay elements. The game's diverse settings, humor, and Quantum Masks contribute to a compelling narrative, despite some storytelling shortcomings.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

89%

Mixed (50-79)

11%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics praised the gameplay of Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time for its challenging platforming, responsive controls, and the introduction of new mechanics that added variety and depth to the gameplay experience. Critics like The Games Machine and VideoGamer highlighted the solid gameplay that gratified different types of players, while Screen Rant and GameSpot appreciated the addition of new elements like Quantum Masks and playable characters that stayed true to the original Crash Bandicoot classics. The inclusion of new abilities, such as wall-running and mask-powered segments, as mentioned by Shacknews, added a fresh twist to the classic Crash formula, making the gameplay engaging and exciting for fans of the series. On the downside, some critics, such as NintendoWorldReport and Gfinity, found the platforming to be frustrating at times due to unpredictable mid-air movements and difficult level design. Additionally, some new mechanics, like the time travel element, as noted by God is a Geek, were mentioned as not meeting the expectations set by the rest of the gameplay. The challenging and unrelenting difficulty, as highlighted by PlayStation LifeStyle and Screen Rant, may also pose a barrier for some players, especially in the late-game challenges that rely heavily on trial-and-error gameplay. The introduction of the N. Verted mode, as mentioned by Wccftech, was also noted as potentially frustrating for certain players. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the gameplay of Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time. The game successfully blends the classic Crash Bandicoot gameplay with new mechanics and features, offering a challenging and rewarding experience for both longtime fans of the series and newcomers. The mix of traditional and modern gameplay styles, as highlighted by GameSkinny, provides a well-rounded experience with plenty of content to explore and replay. Despite some minor issues with difficulty spikes and frustrating mechanics, the majority of critics found the gameplay to be excellent, with GamingTrend even describing it as "excellent" overall. Ultimately, Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time delivers on its promise of delivering a fun and engaging platforming experience that stays true to the series' roots while introducing fresh elements to keep players entertained.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics rave about Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time for its challenging gameplay, new mechanics like Quantum Masks, and engaging platforming. Despite some frustrations with difficulty spikes and unpredictable movements, the majority agree the game successfully blends classic Crash elements with modern features, providing a rewarding experience for fans old and new. Overall, Crash Bandicoot 4 delivers on its promise of fun, engaging platforming with a fresh twist.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

77%

Mixed (50-79)

23%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics praised the graphics and visual design of Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time, highlighting its vibrant colors, expressive animations, and diverse environments. Trusted Reviews noted that the characters are brighter and more expressive than ever before, while GamesRadar++ appreciated the colorful environments and clever twists on Crash's classic theme, enhancing the overall experience. Additionally, COGconnected commended the game for its gorgeous visuals, brilliant lighting, supreme color palette, and smart level design. TheXboxHub mentioned enhanced visuals on Xbox Series X|S with improved loading times, 4K resolution, and 60fps, maintaining a high-quality visual experience. On the downside, some critics pointed out issues with the graphics and visual design of Crash Bandicoot 4. Gaming Nexus mentioned concessions in terms of frame rate, resolution, and texture quality on the Nintendo Switch version, which were noticeable to a discerning eye. GamingTrend and TheGamer both highlighted the visual downgrade on the Switch version, with lower resolution, darker levels, and blending colors that could make the character get lost in the environment. God is a Geek also noted that the Switch version lacked the graphical clout of the PS5 or PS4 versions, especially in handheld mode, although it was still considered playable and enjoyable. Overall, despite some criticisms, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the graphics and visual design of Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time. Critics like Screen Rant, Game Revolution, and Push Square praised the game for its vibrant and detailed art, gorgeous animations, and expressive character models. The game's unique art styles, engaging environments, and attention to detail were widely appreciated, with many critics acknowledging the visual charm and modern revamp of the beloved franchise. The diverse and visually distinct environments, along with the seamless mix of 2D and 3D areas, were highlighted as key strengths of the game's visual presentation. Overall, the majority of critics found the graphics and visual design of Crash Bandicoot 4 to be very good, enhancing the overall gameplay experience and staying true to the series' aesthetic.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics rave about the vibrant graphics and visual design of Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time, praising its expressive animations and diverse environments. While some critics noted issues on the Nintendo Switch version, most agree that the game's stunning visuals, brilliant lighting, and smart level design enhance the overall experience. Despite some criticisms, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with critics applauding the game's vibrant art, expressive character models, and modern revamp of the beloved franchise.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

83%

Mixed (50-79)

17%

Negative (0-49)

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

The Sound Design and Music of Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time received a lot of positive feedback from critics. Many reviewers highlighted the immersive experience created by the sound effects and music. Critics like Game Over Online praised the strong sound design, punchy music, and effective voice acting, contributing to the grand adventure feel of the game. Additionally, reviewers such as Game Revolution and Screen Rant appreciated the whimsical and dynamic soundtrack that evolved with the gameplay, enhancing the overall charm and experience. The inclusion of Quantum Masks that changed gameplay dynamics, as noted by GameSkinny, added an extra layer of depth to the sound design and music, making it a standout feature for several critics. On the flip side, some critics expressed mixed or negative opinions about the Sound Design and Music of Crash Bandicoot 4. COGconnected described the music as mundane and forgettable, lacking standout tracks, which they felt made it uninspired despite capturing the essence of the original game. Easy Allies also mentioned that while the musical score was decent, it lacked standout tracks and failed to rise above mediocrity. TheSixthAxis provided limited detail on the overall sound design and music, suggesting a lack of emphasis on these aspects in their review. These criticisms indicate that not all reviewers were equally impressed with the sound design and music of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards the positive side when it comes to the Sound Design and Music of Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time. The majority of reviewers appreciated the immersive experience created by the sound effects and music, with many praising the dynamic soundtrack, voice acting, and how the music complemented the gameplay. Critics like Shacknews and Impulsegamer highlighted the nostalgic elements, gorgeous cutscenes, and sparkling sound effects that enhanced the overall fun factor of the game. While there were some criticisms regarding the lack of standout tracks and uninspired music, the overall sentiment suggests that the Sound Design and Music of Crash Bandicoot 4 contributed positively to the gameplay experience and captured the spirit of the original games, resonating well with series veterans and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics mostly praised the Sound Design and Music of Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time for its immersive experience, dynamic soundtrack, and effective voice acting, enhancing the gameplay. Some critics, however, found the music mundane and lacking standout tracks. Overall, the majority of reviewers appreciated the nostalgic elements and fun factor the sound design and music added to the game, resonating well with both series veterans and newcomers.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

64%

Mixed (50-79)

27%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time has received predominantly positive feedback from critics. GamingTrend praises Coco's new voice actress for effectively capturing her personality, while Video Chums and Gamers' Temple describe the voice acting as spot-on, adding personality to the cutscenes and fitting the characters perfectly. Gfinity specifically highlights the excellent voice acting for characters like Cortex and his minions, showcasing standout performances within the game. These positive remarks indicate that the voice work in Crash 4 successfully enhances the overall experience by bringing the characters to life and immersing players in the game's world. On the other hand, COGconnected criticizes the disparity in voice roles, noting that Crash Bandicoot still does not have a speaking role while other characters do. This observation highlights a potential negative aspect of the voice acting in the game, as it creates a noticeable inconsistency in character portrayal. While this criticism is not echoed by other reviewers, it raises a valid point about the lack of development in Crash's character through voice acting, which could potentially detract from the overall cohesion of the narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time is a strong aspect of the game. Game Over Online commends the effective portrayal of characters and how they contribute to the overall experience, while Shacknews praises the commendable performances from all voice actors. The dialogue and voice acting are noted to enhance the bright and breezy caper of the game, as mentioned by GamesRadar++. Despite some criticisms regarding the disparity in voice roles, the general sentiment is that the voice acting in Crash 4 adds depth to the characters, enriches the storytelling, and contributes positively to the immersive nature of the game.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics praise the voice acting in Crash Bandicoot 4 for bringing characters to life and enhancing the overall experience. Positive feedback highlights standout performances for characters like Cortex, while some criticize the lack of a speaking role for Crash. Overall, the consensus is that the voice acting adds depth, enriches storytelling, and immerses players in the game's world.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

38%

Mixed (50-79)

59%

Negative (0-49)

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

The Technical Performance of Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time has been positively received on the PlayStation 5. Critics like Attack of the Fanboy and Gamers Heroes highlight the smooth 60 frames-per-second gameplay and snappy load times on the PS5, with enhancements such as improved animations and DualSense controller features. CGMagazine and Push Square also praise the faster load times and rock-solid 60fps presentation on the PS5, showcasing the game's optimization for the new generation hardware. On the flip side, some negative aspects of the Technical Performance are noted on the Nintendo Switch version of the game. Critics like Gamers' Temple and GamingTrend mention framerate issues, glitches, and subpar controls with the Joy-Con thumbsticks impacting the gameplay experience. Despite efforts to maintain a solid 30fps, issues like misplaced kill zones affecting gameplay and visual downgrades in lighting and texture quality on the Switch version detract from the overall technical quality of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a positive reception of Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time's Technical Performance across different gaming platforms. The game excels on the PlayStation 5, with enhancements like smoother animations, faster load times, and optimized performance for the new hardware, as acknowledged by reviewers such as GameSpot and PlayStation LifeStyle. However, the Nintendo Switch version faces challenges with framerate issues and control issues, as highlighted by critics like Gaming Nexus and TheGamer. Despite some platform-specific drawbacks, the game's overall technical performance is well-received, offering an enjoyable experience with notable improvements on newer consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X.

TL;DR

technical performance

Crash Bandicoot 4 shines on PS5 with smooth 60fps gameplay and fast load times, praised for animations and DualSense features. However, Nintendo Switch version faces issues with framerate, glitches, and controls affecting gameplay. Overall, game's technical performance is positively reviewed on newer consoles but has challenges on Switch.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

67%

Mixed (50-79)

33%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics unanimously praised the replay value of Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time, highlighting the abundance of content and incentives for players to revisit levels. Critics such as GameSpot and COGconnected commended the game for offering a plethora of collectibles, challenges, and unlockable content like character skins, time trials, and hidden gems, providing a perfectionist's delight and adding depth to the gameplay experience. The inclusion of additional modes like N. Verted levels, Flashback Tapes, and multiplayer options was also lauded by reviewers such as Softpedia and Game Revolution, further enhancing the replayability of the game. The variety of objectives in each stage, special costumes, and the ability to bring over save data, as mentioned by Worth Playing and PlayStation Universe, were also highlighted as positive aspects contributing to the game's replay value. On the flip side, some critics pointed out potential drawbacks in Crash Bandicoot 4's replay value. While the game offers a significant amount of content and challenges, Game Rant noted that the multiplayer modes were underwhelming, and unlocking secret endings required extreme challenges, which could be off-putting for some players. Additionally, App Trigger mentioned that while there are unlockable costumes, no actual gameplay is locked behind completionist challenges, potentially limiting the long-term appeal for certain players. The sharp difficulty spikes and commitment required for completion, as highlighted by Switch Player, may also pose a challenge for some players, impacting the overall replayability of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the replay value of Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time. The game's extensive content, including multiple collectibles, challenges, hidden gems, unlockable skins, and various game modes, provides players with ample reasons to revisit levels and strive for completion. Critics appreciated the diverse range of gameplay elements, such as time trials, N. Verted levels, Flashback Tapes, and multiplayer options, which contribute to a rich and engaging replay experience. Despite some minor criticisms regarding difficulty spikes and multiplayer modes, the general sentiment is that Crash Bandicoot 4 offers a compelling and rewarding experience for both new and returning players seeking hours of gameplay and exploration.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics rave about Crash Bandicoot 4's replay value, praising its abundance of content like collectibles, challenges, and unlockable skins that cater to perfectionists. Additional modes like N. Verted levels and Flashback Tapes enhance replayability. While some critics find multiplayer lacking and completion challenges daunting, overall, the game offers a rich and engaging experience for players seeking hours of fun and exploration.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

90%

Mixed (50-79)

10%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics praised Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time for its positive aspects. GamingTrend commended the game for surpassing the beloved trilogy and delighting fans with humor, challenging stages, and improved design elements. COGconnected highlighted the challenging gameplay, enhanced visuals, and engaging story, offering a fresh experience for both new and longtime fans. Noisy Pixel appreciated the game for delivering a fun and frustrating 3D platformer experience that stays true to the series while adding new elements, providing a challenging yet rewarding gameplay journey. Additionally, GameSkinny noted that the game modernizes the original formula, offering a challenging and content-rich experience. On the flip side, some critics pointed out certain negatives of Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time. VideoGamer mentioned that the game strains for intricacy but falls short of the original's cinematic possibilities, while also acknowledging the abundance of unlockable content for fans to enjoy. GamingTrend's review of the Nintendo Switch version highlighted reduced visuals, halved frame rate, and some glitches, which might impact the overall experience for players who value graphical fidelity. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment from critics like NintendoWorldReport, who mentioned that the game retains some issues of the original games, suggests that the negatives do not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment of the game. Overall, the consensus among the majority of critics is overwhelmingly positive towards Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time. Critics like Daily Star and Game Over Online give high praise, with the former awarding a perfect score and the latter calling it the best-playing entry in the series and one of the finest platformers of the last decade. The game is celebrated for its challenging yet rewarding gameplay, faithful extension of the original trilogy, updated visuals, and the seamless combination of 2D sidescrolling and 3D platforming. Despite some minor technical issues and control problems mentioned by a few critics, the general sentiment is that Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time is a worthy sequel that successfully brings Crash back at his best, appealing to both old fans and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

Critics overwhelmingly praise Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time for its challenging gameplay, humor, updated design, and faithful continuation of the beloved series. While some note minor technical issues and reduced visuals on the Nintendo Switch version, the general consensus is highly positive. Daily Star gives a perfect score, calling it the best-playing entry in the series, while Game Over Online hails it as one of the top platformers of the last decade. Overall, the game successfully revitalizes Crash Bandicoot, delighting both old fans and newcomers with its blend of 2D and 3D platforming.

CRITIK

Reviews

251 reviews found

100

Daily Star

PlayStation 4

Oct 6, 2020

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

The review gives Crash 4 a 5/5 verdict, praising it as a cracking platform game that is great fun, feels classic, and plays brilliantly.

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100

Comicbook.com

PlayStation 4

Oct 14, 2020

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

The game is praised as a balance between a throwback to the past and an innovative glimpse into the future. It is considered close to perfect for fans of the Crash Bandicoot series.

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100

Game Revolution

PlayStation 4

Oct 7, 2020

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

Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time is praised for its stellar level design, responsive controls, deep replayability, and superb animation, offering an outstanding experience that balances nostalgia and modernity.

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Game Over Online

PlayStation 4

Oct 8, 2020

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

Crash Bandicoot 4 is praised as the best-playing entry in the series, a must-buy for fans, and one of the finest platformers of the last decade, seamlessly combining 2D sidescrolling and 3D platforming.

PlayStation LifeStyle

PlayStation 5

Mar 13, 2021

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

The improved loading times alone make the PS5 version stand out, and the enhanced visuals are an added treat. Additional PS5 features round out the package, but the improved loading is the defining feature of this next-gen port.

GamingTrend

PlayStation 4

Oct 1, 2020

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

Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time is an excellent addition to the series, surpassing the beloved trilogy. Despite some control issues with new characters and long levels, the game delights fans with its humor, challenging stages, and improved design elements.

PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 5

Mar 11, 2021

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

The game is described as a solid port with enhancements, but they don't significantly enhance the experience. It is recommended for players still completing and collecting everything, but it is not radically different on the PS5.

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Gaming Age

PlayStation 5

Mar 29, 2021

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

The reviewer highly praises Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time, calling it an outstanding entry in the series and a wonderful addition to the franchise.

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COGconnected

Xbox Series X

Mar 12, 2021

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

Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time impresses with its challenging gameplay, enhanced visuals, and engaging story. Despite minor technical issues, the game offers a fresh experience for both new and longtime fans of the series.

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We Got This Covered

PlayStation 4

Oct 13, 2020

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

Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time is praised for its precise platforming, top-notch visual design, and challenging gameplay, with some minor issues like occasional camera problems.

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