In 1996, Crash Bandicoot made a monumental impact, propelling 3D platformers to video game stardom. Its success inspired the creators at Naughty Dog to develop a sequel, hoping to replicate the love garnered by the original game. With a budget of $2,000,000 and approximately 13 months to complete the game, the Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back sequel represents everything a sequel should aspire to be. It successfully addresses many of the flaws of its predecessor while offering another dose of cartoony wackiness and vibrant, colorful worlds. It is the best Crash game yet.
After suffering his initial defeat, Dr. Cortex (Clancy Brown) stumbles upon a hidden cave teeming with mystical power crystals. Back on his spaceship, Cortex cunningly enlists the unwitting Crash Bandicoot (Brendan O’Brien) to traverse a series of warp zones, all while explaining the urgent need to collect an abundance of power crystals in order to avert an impending global catastrophe. Despite Crash's earnest efforts to assist Cortex, his sister Coco (Vicki Winters) grows increasingly concerned and attempts to reach out to her brother, fearing that Cortex's true intentions may harbor a sinister trap. Left with no alternative, Crash embarks on a perilous journey across unfamiliar realms, determined to unravel the truth behind Cortex's enigmatic scheme.
The Story is even more involved than the last game. In the first game, the plot revolved around the typical "save the damsel in distress" theme. However, this sequel takes a bold step forward as it plunges Crash into an enigmatic and unfamiliar realm. He finds himself in a situation where he must reluctantly collaborate with his former adversary in order to obtain something essential for the preservation of their world. This storyline is refreshingly original and pleasantly unpredictable. While it retains the charm and character of its predecessor, the scenarios presented are much more compelling. Although the story remains simple and direct, the willingness of the Naughty Dog creators to innovate and diversify the narratives this game,
The Characters are more involved than in the previous installment. Crash's endearing silent yet spunky charm remains a highlight, and the portrayal of Cortex, voiced by Clancy Brown, is as humorous and engaging as ever. Notably, N-Gin and other members of Cortex's crew are given increased prominence in cutscenes and boss battles, leaving a lasting impression. Additionally, the introduction of Crash's Sister Coco adds a new layer of charm, despite her limited role in this game. These larger-than-life characters are not only fun and engaging but also significantly enhance the overall experience of the game.
The Gameplay in the sequel remains as challenging yet fair as before. Controlling Crash using the D-pad provides a range of actions such as running, jumping, belly-flopping, and utilizing his signature spin attack to overcome adversaries and obstacles. There are intricately designed five warp zones, each housing five power crystals. The primary objective is to secure these power crystals for Dr. Cortex, unbeknownst to Crash, who remains oblivious to the nefarious plans. For dedicated players, hidden extras await in perilous areas, encouraging them to complete the game at 100%. Like the original game, most stages are linear, and collecting 100 Wumpa fruits from crates rewards the player with extra lives. The saving option has been improved; now, you can save directly in the Warp Zone without completing a bonus challenge. The boss battles are remarkably well-crafted, featuring satisfying patterns that culminate once deciphered. Throughout the game, Crash unlocks various new powers and abilities, such as digging underground to eliminate specific enemies or operating a jetpack to navigate through zero-gravity sections. However, it must be noted that the jetpack levels pose a considerable challenge due to the somewhat cumbersome manipulation caused by solely using the D-pad, amplifying the game's overall difficulty more than necessary. Introducing new mechanics, such as riding a polar bear or jet skiing through the jungle river, injects immense enjoyment and excitement into the game, enhancing the overall experience. Crash 2’s gameplay significantly improved over the first game, and the old and new mechanics work well with each other.
The Graphics are deliberately simple and polygonal, but they rely on vibrant colors and expressive designs to compensate for the lack of intricate details. The game features a variety of environments, from lush jungles and industrial complexes to icy tundras and futuristic space stations. Each level is meticulously designed, maintaining the charming, cartoonish style of the previous game. Character expressions have been enhanced, with cutscenes showcasing more interactive and emotive characters. While the visuals may seem basic by today's standards, they were impressive for their time. The game's focus on minor details sets it apart from its predecessor and adds to its overall appeal.
The Music for this game was expertly crafted by John Mancell and Mutato Muzika. It features a whimsical and lively tone that perfectly complements the zany nature of the game. The soundtrack maintains a sense of epic grandeur during boss battles and dangerous areas. Whether it surpasses the first game's soundtrack is open to debate. However, it's evident that the creators poured their hearts into ensuring that it captures the same spirit and charm that made the music of the first game truly iconic.
Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back represents a significant leap forward from its predecessor. Despite some slight issues with its control mechanics and visuals that show their age, this sequel hits all the right notes, from its overall tone and artistic style to its meticulously crafted levels. The charming and whimsical essence of the original game is still very much alive in this installment. Opting for the remastered version of the second Crash game in the N Sane Trilogy is highly recommended for newcomers to the series. On the other hand, for those in search of a more demanding gaming experience, this low-polygon game serves as an excellent continuation of one of the most beloved platformers in the gaming world.
(Final Grade: A)