Preview: Astro Bot – A New Jump’n’Run That Packs a Punch!
Astro, Sony’s unofficial mascot, is back in action with Astro Bot. After years of appearing in tech demos and VR mini-games, the charming little robot finally gets his chance to shine in a full-fledged game.
More Than Just a Tech Demo?
For many PlayStation 5 owners, Astro may be a familiar face thanks to Astro’s Playroom, which came pre-installed on the console. It showcased the innovative features of the DualSense controller. However, this new game aims to be much more than just a tech demo. It’s a fully-fledged, colorful, and precise platformer that stands up to even its biggest rivals, like Mario.
The DualSense Controller Steals the Show
The DualSense controller remains the secret star of the game. Both in design and gameplay, the controller’s features are at the forefront. Astro’s spaceship, the Dual Speeder, looks suspiciously like a gamepad – complete with rockets for planetary travel. This small detail is just the start of how the game cleverly integrates hardware features into gameplay.
For instance, certain puzzles require you to pay attention to the strength and location of the controller’s vibrations to find the solution. Even when navigating through space, you’ll use the controller’s motion sensors to collect coins and other goodies. It’s clear that the DualSense is as much a part of the game as Astro himself.
The controller’s haptic feedback is consistently impressive. Whether it’s the rumbling of screws or the sensation of catching space debris, Astro Bot brings the tactile experience to life. I found myself running in circles just to feel the feedback from my surroundings. It’s a fun and unique experience, adding layers to this already engaging platformer.
Precise Platforming Makes Astro Bot Stand Out
Team Asobi, the developers behind the game, are no strangers to hardware integration. Their expertise shows in how responsive and precise the controls feel. This level of control is crucial for any platformer, and this game delivers. When I missed a jump, it was always my fault – never the controls.
The combination of precise mechanics and engaging level design makes for a smooth gameplay experience. Astro’s jumps and movements feel satisfying, and the developers clearly took care to ensure that every input matters.
Rescue Missions and Nostalgic Callbacks
Astro isn’t just jumping around for fun – he’s on a mission to rescue his fellow bots. Much like in Astro Bot: Rescue Mission, players will find bots scattered throughout each level. These little robots are often hidden behind puzzles or tricky platforming segments, and finding all of them becomes an addictive challenge. With around 300 bots to save across 80 levels, there’s plenty of incentive to explore every corner.
Some of these bots are cleverly dressed as characters from PlayStation-exclusive games. In my demo, I spotted bots wearing outfits from God of War and PaRappa the Rapper. These little Easter eggs add a playful nod to Sony’s gaming history. While the demo didn’t reveal what rewards rescuing the bots unlocks, it’s likely similar to Rayman Legends, where saving characters opens up new levels.
A Platforming Gem, But Lacking Innovation?
While this game delivers a polished platforming experience, it may not bring enough innovation to set itself apart from genre heavyweights like Mario. The game’s mechanics, though tight and responsive, don’t offer the same unique twists seen in other platformers. There’s nothing quite like Rayman’s music levels or Mario Odyssey’s inventive Cappy transformations.
The game still stands as a fantastic alternative for platforming fans, especially on the PlayStation 5. The DualSense integration alone gives it a fresh feel, but it may not introduce anything groundbreaking to elevate it above its competitors.
Is Astro Bot Worth the Price?
One potential sticking point for the game is its price. With the standard edition priced at 70 euros and the premium version at 80 euros, it’s not cheap. Comparatively, Super Mario Odyssey and Super Mario Bros. Wonder are available for around 60 euros. However, the game offers its own unique appeal – after all, where else can you save God of War’s Kratos from a grumpy space octopus?
Conclusion: Astro Bot Delivers Fun, but Plays It Safe
Astro Bot is a delightful and polished platformer, with strong level design, precise controls, and creative use of the DualSense controller. While it may not introduce groundbreaking innovations to the genre, it’s a solid alternative to more established platforming franchises like Mario. If you’re a fan of platformers and own a PlayStation 5, the game is definitely worth a look, even if it doesn’t quite push the boundaries of the genre.
Get the game here.
