In 2024, Astro Bot surprisingly became one of the top picks for Game of the Year.
With big games like Elden Ring and Destiny already dominating the year, no one expected a cute platformer like Astro Bot to be such a massive success.
But it’s here, and it’s getting praise from just about everyone—some even say it could be one of the best platformers ever, right up there with Mario.
So, what makes Astro Bot so special? Let’s break it down and see why it’s a game you won’t want to miss.
Key Takeaways
- Astro Bot is one of the most praised platformers of 2024, with 300 characters and gameplay that rivals even the best Mario games.
- It’s a fun tribute to PlayStation’s past, filled with familiar characters and memories while offering an enjoyable experience for all players.
- The game’s creative design and varied levels make it stand out, providing fun and unique gameplay that keeps things fresh and exciting.
A Nostalgic Journey Through PlayStation’s Past (and Future)
If there’s one thing that catches the eye about Astro Bot, it’s how it blends fun, new gameplay with tons of PlayStation history.
Throughout the game, you collect 300 Astro Bots, many of which are dressed as famous PlayStation characters like God of War’s Kratos and Metal Gear’s Solid Snake.
Every time you find one, it feels like a little victory, and it’s a great way to celebrate PlayStation’s past while having a blast in the present.
Likewise, the game is packed with references to iconic games and full of fresh ideas. Plus, each level is themed and designed with amazing creativity.
You might find yourself at a rainbow mushroom level where The Last of Us characters pop up or at other levels with fun surprises.
It’s a game that keeps you smiling as you recognize characters from games you grew up with, alongside enjoying something entirely new.
Gameplay That’s Just as Good as It Looks
While the nostalgia is great, the gameplay is what makes Astro Bot truly stand out. Amazingly, each level introduces new mechanics, power-ups, and challenges that feel fresh and fun.
Whether you’re punching enemies, creating platforms, or slowing down time, the game always gives you something exciting to do.
And with more than 80 levels, there’s never a dull moment.
Debatably, the best part is that Astro Bot doesn’t punish you for failing.
Thankfully, there are no harsh penalties for losing, and once you collect an item, it’s yours to keep—even if you die.
This design choice makes the game feel more about enjoying the journey and less about stressing over mistakes.
However, if you want more of a challenge, optional levels later on allow you to test your skills.
From the start, the gameplay feels polished, smooth, and super satisfying, rivaling even the most iconic platformers like Super Mario.
In fact, it’s the kind of game where every jump, punch, and puzzle feels just right, making it a joy to play from start to finish.
Astro Bot: A Game for All Ages
Astro Bot brings together the best of both worlds—nostalgia and something new. Whether you’ve been a PlayStation fan for years or are just diving into gaming, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.
Many players have shared how they’ve played the game with their kids, making it a fun way to bond and enjoy some time together.
Nicolas Doucet, the head of Team Asobi (the studio behind the game), explained that more games like Astro Bot are needed.
He believes we need more light-hearted, fun games that aren’t heavy on drama or complex storytelling.
Astro Bot fits that mold perfectly, offering pure, unfiltered fun that’s easy to enjoy whether you have five minutes or five hours to spare.
Moreover, the game is divided into short, easy-to-play levels, so it’s perfect for casual gamers or anyone wanting to unwind.
But with 300 bots to rescue and plenty of hidden secrets, there’s enough content to keep even the most dedicated players busy for hours.
Could Astro Bot Shape the Future of PlayStation?
As Sony continues to explore new ways to develop games, Astro Bot reminds us how great simple, well-designed games can be.
Instead of focusing on massive open worlds or online games, Astro Bot offers a focused, polished experience that’s all about having fun.
With a bit of luck, its success could encourage Sony to rethink how they approach future titles.
With glowing reviews and tons of praise, Astro Bot is already proving to be one of the most successful games of 2024.
It clearly fills a gap in Sony’s lineup, offering something light-hearted and family-friendly at a time when most of their big releases are more mature, story-driven titles.
And with fans clamoring for more, it’s likely that Astro Bot will inspire other games in the future, possibly even reviving some old-school franchises.
