Developer – Team Asobi

Publisher – Sony Interactive Entertainment

Platforms – PlayStation 5 (reviewed)

Review copy given by publisher

One of the standout PlayStation 5 launch titles was none other than Astro’s Playroom, a cute action platformer that came installed on every PS5 and acted as a tech demo for the then new DualSense controller. Fast forward 4 years and we now have a full-fledged sequel titled Astro Bot. Sony and PlayStation aren’t really known for their platformers like Nintendo is with their Mario franchise, but this might all change now because Astro Bot is an absolute blast to play.

The narrative here is simple yet effective. You follow Astro as he travels on his trusty DualSense rocket ship through space to rescue his lost bot buddies. Each galaxy presents a new challenge and a new environment, keeping the story fresh and engaging. You could argue the story lacks the depth and complexity found in some other platformers, but the lightheartedness of it all makes the game just as enjoyable.

Astro’s core move set is identical to how it is in previous titles, so he retains his ability to jump, hover, punch, and spin attack, like many other platformers. Astro can also swim so don’t be afraid to get wet! Collecting puzzles unlocks different vendors and activities at the Crash Site, such as the Gatcha Lab, where you can spend your hard-earned coins to pull for collectibles at the cost of 100 coins per pull. Finding all bots and saving them in each level allows them to help you reach previously unreachable areas in the main hub. And with a total of 300 bots to find in the game, you’d better be ready to search every nook and cranny!

At launch, there are a total of 80 levels across 6 main galaxies, with different themed stages within each. But that’s not all, as there are hidden secret levels waiting for you to discover as well, which I won’t spoil here. Every single level is pleasantly designed and hand-crafted, each filled with hidden bots, puzzle pieces, and boss battles. They keep you engaged at all times, with a mix of exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving. And even if you fail, the checkpoint system is more than generous. My favorite is probably the one dedicated entirely to the recent God of War games, where Astro takes control of Krato’s Leviathan Axe and is able to throw it and freeze enemies!

The best part of gameplay is the game’s effortless integration with the PS5’s DualSense controller with a blend of traditional 3D platforming elements. Astro Bot heavily relies on the controller’s haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyroscope to create an immersive experience. For instance, walking over different surfaces like glass or metal makes the controller rumble in sync with Astro’s steps. In addition, you can expect new power-ups that are specific to a level such as the new dog-like backpack that propels Astro forward or the frog arms that allow Astro to punch!

Astro Bot clocks in at a hefty 37.64 GB on the PlayStation 5. Keep in mind Astro’s Playroom was only around 11 GB in size. Performance is excellent, which is to be expected coming from a Sony 1st party title. It takes around 3-4 seconds to load in from the main menu whereas loading into a level is almost seamless and instantaneous. You can also enjoy the entire experience in flawless 60 frames per second in native 4K resolution. Chef’s kiss in terms of performance here.

There aren’t a lot of settings to tweak around with, given the game’s simplicity. You have a few accessibility options, including controller tilt, which replaces the motion sensor function with the left stick, visual aid cues, and camera assist that recenters the camera angle. Of course, you have your general HDR and audio settings as well. Astro Bot offers only one set difficulty, but the game isn’t too hard, and is, for the most part, family-friendly. You can have up to 3 save slots at once, so you and your kids can all play.

Visually, Astro Bot is a feast for the eyes. The game boasts vibrant and colorful environments that are both whimsical and detailed. If you grew up playing PlayStation titles, then the dozens of easter eggs and cameos from different PlayStation franchises will surely make you smile and feel nostalgic, from the more recent Kratos to old-school classics like Ape Escape. All of the character designs are equally charming, with Astro and his bot buddies exuding personality and charm.

The audio design is another standout feature as Astro Bot uses 3D audio to create an immersive soundscape, making players feel like they are truly part of Astro’s world. The sound effects are crisp and varied, from the clinking of coins to the zapping of enemies. The music is upbeat and catchy, perfectly complementing the game’s playful tone. 

I see Astro Bot as a family friendly game that is playable by players of all ages, which is why one area the game could improve on is its difficulty balance. While the game is generally accessible, some sections can be unexpectedly challenging, which might frustrate less experienced players. Offering adjustable difficulty settings could make the game more inclusive and enjoyable for a wider audience.

Team ASOBI did an outstanding job with Astro Bot, a delightful yet playful platformer that is sure to capture the hearts of many gamers and one that I found difficult to put down once I started playing. Its innovative use of the DualSense controller, stunning visual design, engaging audio, and charming narrative make it pure bliss to play and most definitely give Nintendo a run for their money!