Team Evaluation: Crypt Custodian (PS5/Switch)

Writing a cross-platform review is a rare treat, and diving into the world of “Crypt Custodian” on both the PS5 and Nintendo Switch has been an exciting ride for me and my good friend, Albert Eres. Despite the expectation of parity in modern gaming technology, subtle differences can often make or break a game experience across systems. With me exploring the PS5 version and Albert tackling the Switch, we set out to see what “Crypt Custodian,” a new Metroidvania adventure, has in store for us. So, without further ado, let’s dive into our findings.

Crypt Custodian is all about a cat venturing into the afterlife only to be tossed outside Heaven’s gates for reasons that, quite honestly, are absurd and best left unmentioned. Armed with a broom, our feline hero is tasked with tidying up a rather grim plane. The narrative carries a whimsical charm that’s both unusual and beautifully crafted, bringing likable characters to life. What’s refreshing is the game’s ability to not take itself overly seriously, which is a breath of fresh air in the typically intense Metroidvania genre. It’s quite a feat, given the focus is usually on action rather than story.

Let’s talk gameplay: Unlike many of its Metroidvania peers, Crypt Custodian opts for a top-down perspective instead of the traditional side-scrolling platform setup. This immediately brought to mind nostalgic vibes of classic games like Zelda: A Link to the Past. For those of us who find jumping from platform to platform a headache, this approach is a godsend. It makes navigation feel much more precise and enjoyable.

Of course, this is still a Metroidvania. You won’t be able to traverse the entire map right off the bat. This design choice skillfully prevents players from encountering overwhelming battles too early while ensuring that the exploration feels manageable. The game gently guides you, withholding areas until you are ready, without restricting the joy of exploration. It hits that sweet spot of encouraging discovery without throwing players into the deep end.

Now, about combat and puzzles – Crypt Custodian manages to balance these elements expertly. If action is your thing, the game satisfies that need without ever becoming controller-smashingly hard. When it comes to puzzles, they provide just the right amount of challenge. You’re likely to miss a simple detail only to slap your forehead when you finally spot it. This mix of combat and puzzle-solving keeps the tempo just right, drawing you into its world effortlessly.

Part of what keeps “Crypt Custodian” engaging is the extensive collection of items to find, be it upgrade points or hidden cats in jars. These collectibles are often tucked away in elusive corners of the map, encouraging players to revisit areas using handy warp points that make backtracking a pain-free process. It’s a thoughtful feature that enhances exploration by reducing redundant time spent traversing familiar zones.

Speaking of these warp points – in the form of wells – they serve as vital hubs for saving, equipping abilities, and teleporting. Discovering a new area means tracking down these wells quickly, adding a little adrenaline to your quest before you unlock your next safe haven. Finding one when you’re on low life energy in unfamiliar territory certainly offers a palpable sense of relief.

Now, focusing on the graphics and sound, Crypt Custodian flaunts cute, arcade-style visuals and an impressive soundtrack. The controls on PS5 are tight and responsive, making for a pleasant gaming experience. While Metroidvania isn’t traditionally my jam, largely due to my average platforming skills, this game managed to hook me without the usual frustration factor. Its nostalgic nod to ’90s RPGs was an added bonus that made it a personal favorite in my collection.

We’re giving Crypt Custodian a solid 9/10.

Switching gears to Albert Eres’s perspective, he found Crypt Custodian to be a delightful break in the action genre, often saturated by Soulslike variants. While borrowing inspiration from classic Zelda and Metroid series, the game offers a unique, customizable experience that feels approachable for a more casual audience. Plus, there’s a charming storyline featuring cats—a definite plus in anyone’s book.

Game mechanics like attack indicators ensure Crypt Custodian doesn’t demand psychic-level reflexes from players. The combat, though not a walk in the park, provides enough predictability to keep players engaged without unnecessary stress. Albert also appreciated the assist options, which allow players to tweak difficulty settings, ensuring gamers can savor the narrative and art without hitting a skill wall.

The assist options are particularly noteworthy, providing players with extended time for puzzles—which often serve up upgrade points. More importantly, they allow players to enjoy the game without being expert puzzle solvers.

Overall, Albert and I agree that Crypt Custodian is a fantastic addition to the genre and recommend it to everyone from casual gamers to cat enthusiasts. For its engaging story, welcoming gameplay, and nostalgic touch, it earns another 9/10 from Albert.

In conclusion, Crypt Custodian is a love letter to classic Metroidvania and RPG gaming, offering a delightful experience across platforms. Its ability to charm players with its engaging story and innovative approach to gameplay makes it a must-have for fans of the genre. The fact that it shines consistently on both PS5 and Switch speaks volumes about its design and accessibility. If the Metroidvania style appeals to you, diving into the world of Crypt Custodian should be next on your list.