Crash Bandicoot 4: A Cross-Platform Conundrum

====================================================================================

When it comes to nostalgic platformers, few franchises evoke memories quite like Crash Bandizoo... er, we mean, Crash Bandicoot. The irreverent marsupial's return after a long hiatus has fans eagerly anticipating another round of wacky hijinks and challenging obstacle courses.

However, as with any modern release, the question remains: which console should you choose to experience this beloved classic? In our recent review, we took an in-depth look at how Crash Bandicoot 4 performs across various platforms. Spoilers ahead!

PS4 Pro Still Reigns Supreme

-------------------------

Contrary to expectations (or perhaps hopes), even Sony's powerful PS4 Pro struggles to fully realize the full potential of this enhanced remaster. Despite its impressive specs, Activision has elected not to push beyond standard HD resolution - 1080p remains the target across all platforms.

While some may argue that this is more faithful to the original PlayStation One experience, die-hard fans will undoubtedly feel shortchanged by such conservative graphical choices given what we've seen from other recent remasters and remakes. The PS4 Pro's impressive hardware capabilities are left woefully underutilized in these circumstances.

Xbox One X Fares Slightly Better

--------------------------------

On paper at least, Microsoft's Xbox One X seems better equipped to handle the demands of Crash Bandicoot 4. Unfortunately for those invested in Team Green, reality doesn't quite live up to expectations either - both consoles cap out at1080p once again.

While not as laughable an effort as its PS4 counterpart (more on that below), even with Microsoft's powerful hardware underpinning things, this title still fails to impress graphically speaking. It seems that Activision has elected for a 'lowest common denominator' approach across all platforms - hardly what we'd call inspiring given the capabilities of modern console architecture.

PS5 Version Now Available

------------------------

If you're one of those who simply cannot wait any longer or perhaps missed out on purchasing Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time at launch, fear not! Sony has recently released a free upgrade for PS4 owners looking to experience this classic title in all its enhanced glory. Simply insert your original disc into the PlayStation 5 console and follow these simple steps:

1. Load up Crash Bandicoot 4 on your PS4.

2. From within the game's main menu, navigate down until you reach 'Options.'

3. Select 'Save Data/Cloud Sync' from here.

Your save data should now be automatically transferred to the PS5 version - no need for tedious manual saving or syncing required! Just load up Crash Bandicoot 4 on your new console and continue right where you left off!

In conclusion, while fans of this beloved franchise will undoubtedly still find plenty of fun within these walls (pun intended), those expecting graphically stunning visuals may be disappointed by Activision's rather conservative approach across all platforms. Until then, perhaps we'll just have to keep our fingers crossed that future updates or even a full-blown remaster might help address some of these issues and bring Crash Bandicoot 4 into the modern age where it truly deserves to be.

Final Verdict: 3/5 stars

Recommended For: Fans looking for nostalgia value above all else; Those on a tight budget who don't mind settling for sub-par graphics.

Crash bandicoot ps4