Every Crash Bandicoot game ranked
Ever since his debut in 1996, Crash Bandicoot has been a beloved and well-known figure in the gaming world. With his high-energy personality and knack for getting into (and out of) trouble, Crash has become a mascot for the platforming genre. Over the years, we've seen numerous games starring this iconic orange-furred marsupial, with some being better received by fans than others.
Here, we count down the top ten best Crash Bandicoot games of all time and explain why each deserves its place on the list.
10. Crash Bandicoot: The Wrath of Cortex (2001)
Though not developed by Naughty Dog, who invented Crash Bandicoot, The Wrath of Cortex was the first mainline Crash game on the PlayStation 2. It introduced Crunch Bandicoot, a new adversary created by Dr. Cortex, alongside the familiar gameplay elements fans loved. While the game received mixed reviews due to its similarity to the original trilogy, it still offered solid platforming action and creative level design that kept players entertained.
9. Crash Bandicoot: The Huge Adventure (2002)
This title marked Crash’s first appearance on a handheld console, the Game Boy Advance. The Huge Adventure managed to capture the spirit of the original games, albeit on a smaller screen. It was praised for its smooth controls, clever levels, and impressive graphics for a handheld game at the time. It showed that Crash could thrive outside of traditional consoles, reaching a new audience in the process.
8. Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled (2019)
A modern remake of the classic Crash Team Racing, Nitro-Fueled brought the high-speed kart racing and beloved characters into the HD era. With stunning visuals, remastered tracks, and an expanded roster of racers, this game rekindled the love for Crash’s racing adventures. The addition of online multiplayer and customisation options made it a favourite among both nostalgic fans and new players alike.
7. Crash Bandicoot 2: N-Tranced (2003)
Another strong entry on the Game Boy Advance, N-Tranced expanded on the formula of The Huge Adventure, introducing new gameplay mechanics like vehicle levels and an even greater variety of environments. The game was notable for its creative boss battles and challenging
platforming sections, proving that portable Crash titles could offer depth and fun similar to their console counterparts.
6. Crash Bandicoot: Warped (1998)
The third instalment in the original trilogy, Warped took everything great about the first two games and made it even better. The addition of time travel as a theme allowed for a wide variety of levels, from medieval castles to ancient Egypt. Warped also introduced new gameplay elements like vehicle and underwater levels, adding variety to the classic platforming formula. Its refined controls, polished visuals, and engaging level design made it a hit, solidifying Crash’s place in gaming history.
5. Crash Twinsanity (2004)
Twinsanity was a departure from the usual Crash formula, offering an open-world design and a story-driven adventure. For the first time, players could control both Crash and his arch-nemesis, Dr. Cortex, leading to unique gameplay dynamics and plenty of funny moments. The game’s quirky narrative and experimental approach won it a dedicated fanbase, making it one of the more memorable entries in the series.
4. Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time (2020)
Released over a decade after the last mainline entry, Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time brought the series back to its roots while introducing new elements that felt fresh and exciting. The game featured beautifully designed levels, a challenging difficulty curve, and the introduction of new characters with unique abilities. It was praised for respecting the legacy of the original trilogy while pushing the series forward, the perfect blend of old and new.
3. Crash Bandicoot (1996)
The game that started it all, Crash Bandicoot was a groundbreaking platformer that helped define the PlayStation era. With its vibrant 3D environments, challenging levels, and memorable characters, the original Crash set the standard for future games in the series. While it’s simpler and more straightforward than later titles, its charm and innovation make it a classic that remains beloved by fans.
2. Crash Team Racing (1999)
When it comes to kart racing games, Crash Team Racing stands as one of the best of all time. It offered tight controls, a variety of modes, and a cast of characters that were soon loved by Crash fans. The tracks were well-designed, providing plenty of opportunities for skilled players to showcase their abilities. All in all, Crash Team Racing wasn’t just a spinoff - it became a cornerstone of the series, proving that Crash could excel outside of platformers.
1. Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back (1997)
Topping the list is Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back. This sequel took everything that was great about the original game and improved upon it. The controls were tighter, the levels more creative, and the difficulty balanced perfectly. Cortex Strikes Back also introduced the warp room, a central hub that allowed players to tackle levels in a non-linear order, adding an element of strategy to the game. Its blend of challenge, creativity, and fun makes it the best Crash Bandicoot game ever made.
Best Crash Bandicoot game: Landmark series that still delights to this day
From the original trilogy to modern-day remakes and new adventures, the Crash Bandicoot series has something for everyone. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer, our list gives you everything you need to start by picking a game and diving in.
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