Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time is a 3D action platformer that returns the series to its roots of precise jumping, spinning attacks, and crate smashing while adding new layers of mechanics and variety. Players guide Crash or Coco through linear stages filled with hazards, enemies, and collectibles across multiple dimensions as they confront threats from Neo Cortex and N. Tropy.
Gameplay
The core loop centers on side-scrolling and perspective-shifting platforming sequences that demand tight timing and positioning. Basic moves include jumps, double jumps, spins to attack or break objects, slides, and ground pounds. New additions allow wall running, rail grinding, and ziplining in certain sections. Quantum Masks grant temporary powers that alter the environment or movement: Lani-Loli phases platforms and obstacles in and out of existence, Akano enables a prolonged spinning glide that covers gaps and deflects projectiles, Kupuna-Wa slows time briefly to navigate fast hazards, and Ika-Ika reverses gravity to run on ceilings or flip perspectives. These abilities integrate directly into level design for puzzle-like platforming challenges.
Two play styles are available. Modern mode provides infinite continues from the last checkpoint along with a visible death counter. Retro mode limits lives, requiring collection of Wumpa fruit for extras and restarting the full level upon depletion. Crates yield Wumpa fruit or other items, and levels track progress through multiple gems earned by collecting high percentages of fruit, breaking every crate, locating hidden gems, and finishing with few deaths. Additional characters appear in dedicated timeline stages with distinct toolsets: Tawna uses a grappling hook, Dingodile deploys a vacuum for sucking and firing objects, and Neo Cortex fires a ray that converts enemies into temporary platforms while adding a dash move.
Game Modes
The primary experience unfolds through a campaign of main story levels that advance across themed worlds. Completing stages unlocks N.Verted versions, which mirror the layout horizontally and apply unique visual filters that change how obstacles and paths appear. Time trial challenges appear on every level, requiring completion within target times for ranking rewards. Flashback tape levels serve as optional bonus stages unlocked through exploration. Alternate timeline stages let players control the supporting characters mentioned above, each with tailored objectives and movement. Local multiplayer options include Pass N Play, where participants alternate control at checkpoints, and Bandicoot Battle, which supports up to four players in Checkpoint Race or Crate Combo formats focused on speed or point accumulation from breaking boxes.
Visuals and Presentation
Stages feature vibrant, detailed environments that shift between linear tunnels and more open platforming arenas with fixed camera angles. The PS5 version supports 4K resolution and a steady 60 frames per second, along with faster loading compared to the PS4 release. DualSense controller features provide adaptive trigger feedback in select segments and enhanced haptic responses during certain actions. The game maintains the colorful, cartoonish aesthetic of prior entries while introducing new art styles in N.Verted modes that range from neon effects to painted overlays.
Is It Worth Playing?
This title suits players who enjoy demanding platformers that reward mastery through repeated attempts and thorough exploration. The combination of classic mechanics with mask abilities and character variety keeps the experience fresh across dozens of stages, while collectible systems and alternate modes encourage multiple playthroughs. Critics assigned a Metascore of 85, highlighting strong level design and replay value, and user scores sit near 7.9. The PS5 edition offers a free upgrade path for owners of the PS4 version. Those seeking precise controls, challenging boss encounters, and generous post-campaign content will find substantial value here, particularly in a single-player focused package with local co-op elements. The game launched in 2020 with no ongoing seasonal updates, so its content stands complete as released.
