ASTRO BOT reminded me that video games can be magical. Everything about this game is delightful. Even when it’s punishing you with a challenging platforming level, you can’t help but smile, as it’s never the game’s fault that you died. It’s always a user error, but it’s a mistake you can learn and optimize for your next life.
For this review, I could discuss the various gameplay mechanics, as people have seen in all the other reviews: the epic boss bottles, the best use of the PS5 controller (sound and haptics), level design, collectibles (getting 100% means something), the Nintendo inspiration, the graphics, and so much more. Instead, I want to talk about what I felt playing ASTRO BOT. And I felt pure, unadulterated delight. In its special way, ASTRO BOT recreates that sense of childlike wonder and delivers a modern-day feel-good classic that will remind gamers of the countless sleepless nights playing Nintendo classics (SUPER MARIO WORLD, GALAXY, and ODYSSEY).
If you don’t have a PS5 and are a die-hard fan of Nintendo’s platforming games, ASTRO BOT is the game that should encourage you to buy another console. It was the most fun I’ve had (movies, TV, games, amusement parks) in 2024.
It’s available for blast-off on PS5.
