Astro Bot Review (PlayStation 5)

If you’ve been keeping an eye on the world of platformers, you know that Astro Bot has been a charm since it first burst onto the scene. From its debut, this charming little robot has been taking players on immersive journeys with a blend of creativity and fun. 

Now, as we dive into the latest sequel, it’s clear that Astro Bot is back to prove that it’s not just riding on past successes. In this new adventure, things get more thrilling. We’re talking fresh abilities, exciting challenges, and a world that feels more vibrant and alive than ever. That said, let’s jump right into the action.

A Short but Sweet Adventure

Astro Bot may not be the longest game out there, but what it lacks in length, it makes up for in quality. The game’s main campaign can be completed in 7 to 10 hours. Every moment is packed with fun and creativity.

What makes Astro Bot so special is that it values quality over quantity. Rather than stretching the game out with repetitive content, it focuses on delivering a consistently enjoyable experience. Every level feels perfectly designed, and players are rewarded with creative puzzles, vibrant visuals, and charming characters.

From the very moment Astro Bot loads up, it’s clear that this game is something special. The vibrant visuals, paired with an upbeat and catchy soundtrack, instantly create an inviting atmosphere. The controls feel precise and responsive, allowing players to jump, spin, and glide effortlessly, spicing the game into the kind of platforming game that feels good to play from the get-go. 

Glide Like a Pro

One of the purest joys in Astro bot is the simple act of gliding. It’s not just a mechanic; it’s a feeling, an experience that transforms how you move through the game. The moment you start gliding, there’s an immediate sense of freedom, like being handed the keys to your own personal hovercraft. Gliding allows you to soar through the air with ease, navigating each level like a pro. The controls are so responsive that every swoop and dive feels effortless.

What makes gliding so satisfying is how cool it feels. The game’s design encourages you to take full advantage of this ability. You can dodge enemies, solve puzzles, or cruise through the skies to admire the view. It seamlessly integrates into the gameplay, giving you that perfect blend of fun and challenge. 

Notably, with each glide, you can’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. It makes you feel as if you’ve mastered the game’s mechanics and the art of soaring through its imaginative worlds.

Now, let’s talk about the jumping. In Astro Bot, jumping feels like hitting the jackpot of platforming joy. The precision of the jumps ensures you won’t be falling flat on your face anytime soon. Each leap delivers that satisfying “boing” that encourages you to jump again and again.

Then there’s the spinning, an essential part of the fun in Astro Bot. The spinning mechanics aren’t just a flashy move but central to the gameplay. It’s like your little robot buddy shows off its dance moves every time you spin. These spins add a fantastic twist to both combat and exploration, making navigating tricky levels a fun experience. 

Nostalgic Tribute to PlayStation

Right from the start, Astro Bot shows off what the PlayStation 5 can do. The game starts with stunning visuals and a catchy soundtrack that pulls you in. The controls are super smooth, making every jump, spin, and glide feel effortless. It’s like the PS5 is showing off its stuff here. The experience feels polished and fun, setting the stage for a great adventure.

Astro Bot is a total shout-out to PlayStation’s iconic games. You’ll spot nods to Uncharted, God of War, and even some legendary characters like those from Sly Cooper. It’s clear Team Asobi loves PlayStation, and they’ve packed the game with these awesome references. It’s like a nostalgic trip through the PlayStation universe wrapped in a fresh and fun package.

Additionally, the attention to detail in these tributes is outstanding. In the Uncharted-themed level, the game features an adventure reminiscent of Nathan Drake’s escapades. In fact, it’s complete with the same thrilling action and exploration. 

Similarly, the God of War-inspired level brings Kratos’ world’s epic scale and intensity to the platforming genre. Ultimately, the game offers a gameplay that reflects the essence of these franchises, making them a treat for fans.

Now, here is the real deal. The PS5’s DualSense controller makes Astro Bot cool. The haptic feedback and adaptive triggers bring the game to life in a way that’s difficult to describe. You can feel every little detail, from Astro’s footsteps to powerful blasts. It genuinely makes the game more immersive and enjoyable. This tech shows off how cool PS5 can be and makes playing Astro Bot a genuinely immersive experience.

The Joy

Now, the absolute joy in Astro Bot comes from the thrill of exploration. The game is packed with collectibles and hidden secrets that encourage you to explore every nook and cranny of its levels. 

For instance, collectibles, like the adorable little bots scattered throughout the game, are a major thing. Finding these bots unlocks various bonuses and rewards. Similarly, the game’s level design ensures that exploration feels rewarding, with each hidden area offering something new and exciting.

Additionally, the game’s hidden zones are a fantastic feature. These areas often contain unique challenges or special collectibles. The game’s vibrant and dynamic environments further enhance the sense of exploration. Each level is visually engaging, encouraging you to take your time and enjoy the scenery. The collectibles and engaging exploration make every moment in Astro Bot feel like a new adventure.

When it comes to platforming, Astro Bot has outdone itself. It’s simply perfect and top-notch. The game is a masterclass in keeping things fresh, constantly introducing new mechanics to keep you on your toes. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, Astro Bot throws in a new power-up or gameplay element.

One minute, you’re blasting across the map with a jetpack, and the next, you’re solving puzzles with a sponge suit. It’s an amazing mix of creativity and challenge, keeping you engaged from start to finish.

Additionally, the platforming isn’t overly difficult, so you won’t find yourself rage-quitting after falling off a ledge for the tenth time. Instead, it strikes a perfect balance, offering enough complexity to keep you entertained without turning into stress. It’s a smooth experience, like butter on toast, with just the right amount of crunch to keep you coming back for more.

Surprise!

Astro Bot has always been known for its innovative and playful mechanics. This latest installment takes things to a whole new level. The game introduces a variety of new powers that give Astro fun and powerful ways to explore planets and tackle enemies. These abilities not only spice up the gameplay but also offer plenty of moments that make you feel like a true hero. 

First, we have the Monkey Climber. Picture a small robotic ape with oversized hands, and that’s your climbing buddy in action. This little guy helps Astro scale walls, grab onto ledges, and even toss rocks at enemies with its mighty grip. It’s a perfect blend of mobility and brute strength, and it’s super satisfying to watch your ape bot pull off daring moves. 

Next, you’ll meet Barkster the Bulldog Booster, Astro’s trusty bulldog-inspired companion. This little guy packs a punch. With Barkster, you can smash through walls and blast into enemies. It’s like strapping a rocket to a bulldog and letting him loose in the game. The momentum you get from using Barkster adds a fast-paced element to the gameplay, making it one of the most exciting abilities in the game. Plus, his bulldog growls while bashing through obstacles, taking the fun up a notch. 

Finally, the Twin Frog Gloves bring some heavy-handed action into the mix. These spring-loaded gloves give Astro some serious punching power. They allow him to throw massive fists at anything in his way. Whether launching enemies into the air or smashing through barriers, the Frog Gloves offer a satisfying way to deal with heavier obstacles. 

Verdict

Astro Bot once again proves it’s a must-play in the platforming games. It delivers smooth gameplay and a vibrant world filled with surprises. The addition of new abilities keeps the experience fresh and exciting, making every level feel like a new adventure. 

The game strikes a perfect balance between challenge and accessibility, making it enjoyable for both casual players and platforming veterans. The precise controls and playful mechanics make every jump, spin, and glide feel satisfying. 

However, while the game excels in creativity and fun, there’s always a but. Some players might find the platforming repetitive over time, especially for those seeking a more challenging experience. Despite the minor drawbacks, Astro Bot still delivers an unforgettable platforming experience.