Ah, Crash Bandicoot Warped! This game is a true gem from the 90s, and for those of us who played it back in the day, it feels like a real time machine. The third installment of this classic launched on October 31, 1998, and it made a mark in video game history, sending our beloved marsupial on a journey through different eras and unique settings, all wrapped in the humor and intensity that defines the franchise.
Released in the golden days of the original PlayStation, this game hooked us all with its mix of platforming, surreal challenges, and, of course, the unstoppable personality of our dear Crash. Today, celebrating 26 years since the launch of Crash Bandicoot Warped, I’m bringing you a super fun review…
The Story: Time Travel and the Return of Cortex!
The story of Warped picks up right after the events of Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back, with the evil Dr. Neo Cortex and his new ally, Uka Uka (the evil brother of Aku Aku), plotting to dominate the world once again. To do this, they unleash Nefarious Tropy, who has absolute control over time and creates a device to manipulate different historical periods. This is where the magic begins: Crash and his sister Coco must travel through time and space to stop this trio of villains.
The narrative feels fresh even today, with each level transporting us to unique places and eras: Ancient Egypt, the Middle Ages, the Wild West, and even the future. This kind of variety keeps the game exciting, and each level feels like a new adventure waiting to be explored!
Gameplay of Crash Bandicoot Warped: A Polished Classic
One of the standout features of Warped is the improvement in gameplay mechanics. Naughty Dog really honed the platforming and adventure formula here, mixing pure platforming sections with new challenges like motorcycle and diving levels. I admit, the motorcycle sections can feel a bit tricky to handle at first, but once you get the hang of it, the adrenaline rush is insane!
The control of Crash feels smoother and more precise than in previous installments, and with every new power you earn after defeating bosses, the experience just keeps getting better. Speaking of powers, Warped introduced abilities that revolutionized the gameplay: the double jump, the super spin, and even a fruit bazooka for attacking enemies from a distance. This added another layer of strategy, giving the game more depth.
Super Jumps, Bazookas, and More Powers
Now, Crash has more skills than just spinning and jumping. His arsenal expands with the power of the super jump and a fruit bazooka (yes, fruit!), giving him tactical advantages in levels where enemies seem to multiply. It’s a touch of madness that reminds us why we love Crash.
The Motorcycle and the Jetpack: New Ways to Travel
Crash zooms around like there’s no stopping him. With a motorcycle and a jetpack, Crash Bandicoot Warped offers levels where speed and precision are key. Each vehicle provides a different way to move, from frantic races to precision flying. Crash has never had so much freedom to roam around!
The Levels of Crash Bandicoot Warped and the Creativity Behind Them
One of the most remarkable achievements of Crash Bandicoot 3 lies in its level structure. The creativity in the settings is unmatched. Each world has its own obstacles and challenges, tailored to the historical period it’s set in. For example, in Ancient Egypt, you have to dodge traps and mummies, while in the Wild West, you encounter crazy cowboys and dynamite. Every corner of the game is brimming with imagination.
One detail I’ve always loved is the freedom to choose the order in which you tackle the levels of each world. This allows you to play according to your preferences or try to complete specific challenges before others.
The Bosses: A Combination of Wit and Challenge
Boss fights are epic, and this is where the game really tests your skills. Some of the most memorable opponents include Tiny Tiger in the Roman Coliseum, Dr. N. Gin with his giant robot (which features one of the most exciting battles in the saga), and, of course, Nefarious Tropy in a time battle that demands sharp reflexes. The variety in battles means that each boss has a unique tactic, which adds a satisfying challenge to overcome.
Graphics and Sound: A Visual and Auditory Delight
For a game from the late 90s, the graphics of Crash Bandicoot Warped are impressive. Naughty Dog made the most of the PlayStation hardware to deliver advanced visual effects and detailed levels, which still look pretty good today in the remastered version of the N. Sane Trilogy. The vibrant colors, lighting effects, and little details in each world showcase the dedication the team put into this release.
And the sound… what a gem! The soundtrack is unforgettable, with melodies that perfectly capture the spirit of each era. Does anyone else remember that catchy tune from the medieval levels? And we can’t forget the sound effects that make every jump, spin, and “WUMP!” feel intense and satisfying.
A Timeless Legacy
Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped not only represents one of the standout versions of the franchise but also established Crash as one of the most beloved characters in the industry. Even though the saga underwent multiple transformations and changes after Crash Bandicoot Warped, this game will always be remembered as the moment Naughty Dog gave us an unforgettable experience, packed with humor, challenge, and tons of fun.
If you’re a fan of platformers, Crash Bandicoot Warped is a classic that you absolutely must play (or replay), and trust me, I’m GeekGamer. Whether it’s in its original version or the remastered N. Sane Trilogy, get ready to travel through time with Crash and discover why this game remains so loved by gamers of all ages.
Whether you own a Playstation 1, or want to collect the Crash Bandicoot Warped disc, you can buy it here
