Review of Crash Team Rumble

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The Rise and Fall of Crash Bandicoot Multiplayer Games

Introduction

Crash Bandicoot, the iconic marsupial from the beloved platforming series, has had numerous attempts at multiplayer games over the years. From kart racers to party games and cooperative modes, Crash has ventured into the realm of multiplayer gaming with varying degrees of success. The latest addition to the Crash Bandicoot multiplayer lineup is Crash Team Rumble, an online-only competitive platformer that offers a fun experience but raises questions about its longevity.

The Concept of Crash Team Rumble

Crash Team Rumble, developed by Toys for Bob, the studio behind the critically-acclaimed Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time, takes a departure from the story-driven adventures of Crash and his friends. Instead, it focuses on the competitive aspect, pitting the various characters from the Crash Bandicoot universe against each other in two teams of four. The objective is to collect as much Wumpa Fruit as possible.

A Diverse Cast of Characters

Crash Team Rumble features a roster of memorable characters from the main platforming series. Players can choose to play as Crash Bandicoot, Tawna, Dingodile, Coco, Dr. Neo Cortex, and more. These characters are divided into three categories: Scorers, Blockers, and Boosters. While each character is assigned a specific category, players are free to play any role they prefer in a given match.

Unique Abilities and Roles

Each character in Crash Team Rumble brings their own unique abilities to the table. For example, Dingodile can use a vacuum to suck Wumpa Fruit from enemies, while Dr. N. Brio can transform into a massive Hulk-like creature to overpower opponents. These abilities are tailored to the characters’ assigned roles, with Scorers focused on collecting Wumpa Fruit, Blockers defending the goal, and Boosters gathering relics to assist teammates with power-ups.

Varied Maps and Gameplay

Crash Team Rumble offers a variety of maps inspired by the core Crash Bandicoot games. Each map not only has distinct visuals but also features specific power-ups that players can unlock by depositing relics. This diversity in maps and characters ensures that the gameplay remains fresh and engaging, preventing it from becoming repetitive or monotonous.

The Thrill of the Gameplay

The core gameplay of Crash Team Rumble is undeniably fun, showcasing Toys for Bob’s expertise in creating entertaining platforming experiences. The transition of Crash Bandicoot-style platforming and items into an online multiplayer game is surprisingly seamless. The fast-paced action and coordinated teamwork required make for an exciting gameplay experience that can easily consume hours of playtime.

The Battle Pass Dilemma

However, one major drawback of Crash Team Rumble is its battle pass progression system. The battle pass progression is slow, requiring numerous matches to level up, regardless of individual performance. With many other well-established live service games offering more rewarding battle passes, Crash Team Rumble’s battle pass demands too much time and effort from players.

Concerns about Longevity

The long-term sustainability of Crash Team Rumble is a legitimate concern. While the game promises new characters and content updates, it remains to be seen if these updates will be frequent enough to compete with existing live service games and blockbuster releases. Additionally, the game’s premium distribution model, priced at $29.99, may hinder its ability to amass a dedicated player base in a market saturated with free-to-play multiplayer experiences.

Recommendation and Conclusion

Crash Team Rumble undoubtedly offers enjoyable platforming gameplay and a unique multiplayer experience. However, the game’s future is uncertain, making it difficult to wholeheartedly recommend. Players who are eager to join an active community should consider jumping in now, while the player base is still active. However, those hesitant to invest $30 in a game that may lose popularity in a few months may be better off waiting for a potential free-to-play re-release.