Croc: Legend of the Gobbos Remaster – Review

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Among my all-time favorite platform games is “Croc: Legend of the Gobbos”. I recall vividly when it first released on the original PlayStation, a game that kept me engrossed for hours. Coincidentally, it launched around the same time as Nintendo 64, featuring Super Mario 64 in its initial lineup. Yet, Croc’s gameplay left a more lasting impression on me compared to Mario 64.

Without a doubt, there’s a piece of me that would still place this charming, Nintendo Rare-inspired game ahead of Mario’s initial foray into 3D. Interestingly enough, Croc originated as a potential 3D Yoshi title in the world of Nintendo. The background story is captivating indeed.

Was the remastered version of Croc: Legend of the Gobbos as enjoyable for me as my memories suggest? Let’s discover.

The objective in the game Croc is to save all your gobbo companions, who have been abducted by the wicked Baron Dante and his henchmen. To do this, you’ll navigate through increasingly complex levels filled with platforms, to open crates, unlock cages, gather gems, and ultimately rescue your cute little friends. Each level also contains 5 or 6 colored gems hidden away that you need to collect in order to access the bonus exit and usually free the final gobbo of the level. While not overly challenging to find, these gems encourage more exploration than those who are only focused on reaching the end of each level.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but share my excitement over one particular gem from the game – the Crocipedia! In the storyline, Croc doesn’t have a detailed past; he just appeared and was nurtured by the Gobbos until calamity hit, courtesy of the nefarious Baron Dante. Yet, this very lack of backstory serves as an introduction to this fantastic in-game resource for fans of the original series – the Crocipedia! This encyclopedia within the game provides a wealth of information about various characters, enemies, and locations from the Croc universe, making it a must-explore feature for any diehard fan like myself.

At Crocipedia, you’ll discover an enchanting trove filled with all things related to Croc merchandise. From the music score to sketches, and even a section that unveils the proposed but ultimately shelved script for the Fox animated series. I recommend reaching out to Netflix (or Dreamworks if possible) about turning this into a movie.

Instead, let me put aside my fantasies about a worldline where Croc outshone Crash, Mario, and Sonic, and instead focus on the present.

Here, you’ll find a resemblance to the remastered Tomb Raider trilogies by Aspyr. The core elements from the original remain unchanged, yet they’ve been polished with quality-of-life upgrades and a modern facelift. While some might appreciate the retro chunky polygonal aesthetic, Croc is quite appealing for a ’97 game. However, these updated visuals simply magnify the charm that emanates from this timeless gem.

As a devoted fan, I can tell you that you have the freedom to change visual styles from remastered to classic, and adjust settings according to your preference. Yet, after experiencing the retro mode for a blast of nostalgia, you might find yourself hooked – such is the exceptional work done by the team at Argonaut Software. The new models and lighting are nothing short of stunning, making one wish Mario 64 had received similar treatment.

In this updated version, the soundtrack sounds fantastic and matches perfectly with the new visuals. You can listen to it all in Crocipedia. Each sound Croc makes contributes to his character, and I find myself intentionally doing tricks like tail spins or butt slams just to hear them again. Few games today offer music as good as this one – each tune fits its level beautifully. The wind whistle on the snow levels gives me goosebumps, and the menu music makes me tap my foot – outstanding work!

Everything exudes the feel of Nintendo Rare’s era, noticeable in the level designs and the map screen reminiscent of Donkey Kong Country between levels. Croc seems almost like he could be a Nintendo character, perhaps even sharing tea with Diddy Kong, Banjo, or Conker. This isn’t meant as an insult at all; instead, it’s a high praise, comparing a charming platformer mascot to the undisputed rulers of adorable, family-friendly platform gaming fun. Croc is truly iconic.

Despite the fact that some aspects have managed to stand the test of time, there’s one particular feature that seems outdated and can’t be concealed with a new layer of paint or modernized controls. We’re talking about the boss battles here.

Although many elements in this game remain relevant, there’s one aspect that doesn’t seem to have aged gracefully and can’t simply be covered up by a lick of fresh paint or updated control schemes. We’re referring to the challenging encounters with boss characters.

At intervals throughout the game, Baron Dante strengthens one of his minions and pits them against Croc in an enclosed combat zone. These boss fights aren’t particularly enjoyable and tend to be overly straightforward to conquer. I believe that eliminating all bosses except for the final one would improve the game, as they seem unnecessary, even though they are a common feature in this genre. My main criticism of Croc: Legends of the Gobbos Remastered is that it slightly tarnishes an otherwise flawlessly refined experience – like a small smudge on an almost perfectly clear wine glass.

This game is beautifully managed from its updated controls to its exceptional, fresh visuals. It’s a shame that games like Croc are seldom made these days. If you appreciate platformers but sometimes feel overwhelmed by the excessive number of collectibles in each new release within the genre, then Croc might just be perfect for you. In essence, it strikes the right balance and offers an appropriate level of challenge.

I was excited to learn that a remaster was being developed. For years, I’ve kept my PSP/Vita primarily because it allows me to play the original version conveniently. In fact, prior to receiving the review code, I had already pre-ordered the collector’s edition (if only I could have gotten one of those plush Gobbos as well!), and replaying the levels that are etched in my memory brought back all the love I initially felt for it.

I’m crossing my fingers that they manage to sell enough copies of Croc 2 for a remaster, and afterwards, create an entirely new game to round off the trilogy – Croc truly deserves it.

Remastered Croc: Legend of the Gobbos offers an exceptionally smooth, improved graphics experience, blending timeless appeal with a captivating soundtrack, making it a must-have for both longtime followers and lovers of platform games.

…Just as some classics mature gracefully like a well-aged Cabernet Sauvignon, so too does the Croc: Legend of the Gobbos Remaster.

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2025-04-02 02:12