It’s not every day that we have the opportunity to review a game across multiple platforms. Observing how a single title adapts to various systems is quite intriguing. In theory, modern technology should ensure uniformity, but that’s not always the case. With this in mind, my esteemed colleague Albert Eres and I took the leap into Crypt Custodian, a fresh Metroidvania that has just graced our PC and console screens. For our review, I’ve been tackling the PS5 version, while Albert ventured into the Switch port. Let’s delve into our experiences and see if we both walked away impressed.
Crypt Custodian spins a whimsical tale about a cat that finds itself in the afterlife. Due to comically absurd reasons that I’ll spare you from, our feline friend is denied entry into heaven and ends up lingering outside The Palace. Armed with a broom, it’s tasked with cleaning up this less-than-pleasant realm. The narrative is quirky and beautifully written, offering a delightful reprieve from the usual serious-toned adventures. The charm of the characters encountered along the journey makes them instantly likable. This is no small feat in the Metroidvania genre, which often emphasizes breakneck action over storytelling. It’s refreshing to see a game taking a slightly different narrative approach.
One of Crypt Custodian’s most endearing qualities is its deviation from the usual side-scrolling norm. Many Metroidvanias are expanded platformers, but this game is a top-down adventure. As someone who doesn’t particularly relish frenetic platforming, this approach is a breath of fresh air. It evokes the spirit of Zelda: A Link to the Past, which I find far more precise and less frustrating.
True to the Metroidvania formula, you start off with limited access to the map, necessitating some backtracking. This setup ensures you won’t stumble upon challenges beyond your skill level too early. As you progress and gain new abilities, previously inaccessible areas become available, maintaining a balance between exploration and manageability. You’re encouraged to explore at your own pace without feeling overwhelmed by what lies ahead.
Crypt Custodian masterfully intertwines action with puzzle-solving. For those eager to dive into combat, the game offers plenty without the frustration associated with overly tough battles. Meanwhile, the puzzles remain challenging yet straightforward enough that you won’t feel stuck for long. Often, if you’re stumped, it’s just a simple oversight you’ll catch with a fresh perspective. This integration of combat and puzzles creates a compelling rhythm that keeps you hooked.
The game also keeps things lively with tons of collectibles. Some of these, like upgrade points, are stashed behind puzzles or in areas you’ll unlock as you advance. These points are crucial for enhancing abilities, which adds depth to the gameplay. Furthermore, you can collect cats hidden in jars scattered throughout the map—gather them all and earn rewards. The scattered warp points ease the pain of backtracking, making re-exploration a no-hassle affair.
About those warp points—these vital locations serve as hubs for saving, equipping abilities, and teleporting. Locating a new warp point brings a tangible sigh of relief, especially when you’re deep in unexplored territory with dwindling health. It adds a layer of tension, knowing that your progress hinges on finding that next oasis.
As for the visual and auditory elements, Crypt Custodian features charming arcade-style graphics and excellent sound design, paired with smooth controls on the PS5. While I’m generally selective with Metroidvanias due to my aversion to platformers, this game defied my expectations. It kept me intrigued, eager to uncover what lay beyond each corner. If this genre speaks to you, Crypt Custodian is a must-try. Its nostalgic 90s RPG vibe is a delightful bonus, evoking fond memories. Overall, it’s a rewarding addition to any gaming library.
Score: 9/10
Now, let’s hear from Albert. Crypt Custodian is a delightful addition, offering a welcome reprieve from the heavily saturated market of Soulslike games. Drawing influence from classic titles like Zelda and Metroid, it stands out with an experience tailored for casual gamers. Its charming story involving cats resonates with anyone fond of these creatures.
One aspect where Crypt Custodian shines is its approach to enemy attacks. Even on higher difficulties, projectile-spitting foes provide indicators of their attack paths. Unlike many action games that demand you to “git gud,” Crypt Custodian allows you to dodge with a bit of foresight. While combat isn’t a walk in the park, its predictability affords players a more relaxed playthrough.
The game’s customizable assist options enhance its appeal to casual gamers, allowing adjustments like increased attack power and extra health. These options can mean the difference between enjoying the game or giving up in frustration. I did encounter a minor issue on the Switch port where assist settings sometimes reverted, but this didn’t overshadow the experience.
Noteworthy is the assist feature that grants extra time on puzzles. Often, difficulty settings only impact combat, ignoring puzzle timings. In Crypt Custodian, players can tackle these optional puzzles with more leeway, ensuring they don’t have to be experts in platforming.
In conclusion, Crypt Custodian is a gem for casual gamers, Zelda and Metroid fans, and cat enthusiasts alike. Its endearing features and approachable design make it a standout title in today’s gaming landscape.
Score: 9/10
To sum it up, Crypt Custodian is almost purrfect. It’s an ode to classic RPGs and puzzles, wrapped in an engaging story and addictive gameplay. It doesn’t ramp up the difficulty just for the sake of it, which is a welcome change. Our enjoyment across two platforms speaks volumes. While it may not reinvent the wheel, what it does, it executes flawlessly. If Metroidvanias are your thing, dive into this adventure!
