PlayStation is not particularly known for its family games, often overshadowed by more mature and demanding titles. However, with Astro Bot which was unveiled at the Summer Game Fest, the Japanese firm proves that it also knows how to offer fun and immersive experiences for all audiences. As a snub to its competitor Nintendo, PlayStation will offer its next opus on September 6. A spiritual successor to the highly appreciated Astro’s Playroom (available on PS5), this new platform game promises to captivate young and old alike. After having played four different levels, here are our first impressions of this interstellar gem.
Astro Bot sets the mood
From the first minutes, Astro Bot immerses us in a colorful and enchanting universe. The sumptuous settings depict varied planets, each with its own identity. We find ourselves in a lush jungle, an aerial construction site or even an aquatic world with bosses with 8 legs tentacles. The richness of the environments testifies to the meticulous attention paid to detail, and we were only able to see a fraction of them. Many planets, even more original, await us in the full game.
This world made up of levels and biomes is populated by endearing characters, often inspired by famous PlayStation franchises. This adds an extra dimension to the pleasure of the game, awakening the nostalgia of fans while introducing new heroes to novices. The graphics, although adopting a childish aesthetic, are far from simplistic. The textures and animations are of exceptional quality, allowing for total immersion.
Diversity and difficulty of levels
Astro Bot is not just a simple platform game. It stands out for the diversity and ingenuity of its levels. During our hands-on, we explored four levels, each offering unique challenges. Some levels are relatively simple, perfect for young players or those discovering the genre. Others, however, require precision and reflection, representing real challenges for more seasoned players.
The difficulty varies from one level to another and depending on the mechanics presented, but the game manages to remain accessible without becoming frustrating. The die and retry side is really indulgent, except in the special levels that expressly want to make you suffer. Completists, on the other hand, will have plenty to do: collecting all the collectibles and unearthing the well-hidden secrets will prove to be a more or less arduous task. This quest for hidden treasures enriches the gaming experience, adding a layer of replayability and satisfaction for those who like to discover everything.
Each level introduces a specific skill for Astro, whether it is flying, jumping or punching. This game mechanic brings freshness to each stage of the adventure. Mastering these skills is essential to progress, and their use is perfectly integrated into the gameplay, right down to the bosses who sometimes use counter-intuitive techniques to innovate during “repetitive” phases.
Total immersion
Astro Bot owes a large part of its immersion to the ingenious use of the DualSense controller. This was already the case with Astro’s Playroom, which served as a technological showcase for the PS5 controller. Until now, no other game – even an ambitious one – has managed to match its use and Sony’s expertise is proven once again with Astro Bot. The controller’s haptic vibrations and adaptive triggers add a sensory dimension to the game, making every jump, every hit and every action more tangible. You can feel the textures of the surfaces, the resistance during specific actions, and even the vibrations of Astro’s footsteps, which reinforces the immersion and the pleasure of the game.
In short, Astro Bot is a galactic adventure that promises a lot of fun. With its varied settings, progressive challenges and innovative use of the DualSense, it can establish itself as a must-have for all PlayStation owners looking for an experience that is both family-friendly and immersive. We now need to determine whether the game's lifespan and its other levels will live up to our expectations.
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