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MONSTER

Crash Team Rumble

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Crash Team Rumble
Item: Crash Team Rumble
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Platformer, Strategy, Multiplayer

AvailableJun 20, 2023

PlatformPlayStation 5, Xbox Series X

DeveloperToys for Bob

Overview

In Crash Team Rumble, players can play as Crash, Dingodile, and a host of other friends and frenemies, each of which has their own distinct power, personality, and playstyle, as they compete across wild and varied arenas in four-versus-four team-based online multiplayer action. To lead their squad to victory, players will slide, smash, bump and bash as a team to be the “fur-st” to bank the most Wumpa fruit in their drop-off zone, while simultaneously defending the opponent team’s drop zone. Featuring cross-platform play, Crash Team Rumble will feature tons of strategic gameplay elements that will be sure to turn the tide of scoring in hilarious ways.

Elsewhere

8.0

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

story and narrative

Description unavailable

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Crash Team Rumble delivers an engaging multiplayer experience with accessible mechanics and strategic team play, earning praise for its addictive, fast-paced matches. However, critics flag a lack of depth and variety, with concerns over character balance and potential for repetition. While the game has solid foundations, its limitations could dampen long-term interest. Overall, it's a fun ride with room for improvement—perfect for some, but potentially frustrating for others.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

77%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

15%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Crash Team Rumble has garnered a generally positive reception among critics, highlighting its engaging and accessible mechanics. Many reviewers, such as those from Pure Xbox and Destructoid, praised the game for its addictive nature, emphasizing that it is easy to pick up and play while still offering depth for players to master. The strategic element of team composition is frequently mentioned, with critics like BaziCenter and Digital Chumps noting the importance of different character classes—Scorers, Blockers, and Boosters—that encourage diverse gameplay and teamwork. The fast-paced, competitive nature of the matches, which typically last around five minutes, has also been highlighted as a significant strength, making it appealing for both casual and dedicated players. However, several critics have pointed out notable shortcomings in the gameplay experience. A recurring theme is the perceived lack of depth and variety, with reviewers such as Jeuxvideo.com and GamersRD expressing concerns that the gameplay may become repetitive over time. Critics like Metro GameCentral and Gamereactor UK have also raised issues regarding balance among character classes, suggesting that some characters may feel overpowered or less enjoyable to play. Additionally, some reviewers, including WellPlayed, criticized the game for being a "shockingly lean competitive game," indicating that the overall experience could feel unfulfilling, particularly in terms of combat encounters and player engagement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Crash Team Rumble offers a fun and engaging multiplayer experience with a solid foundation of gameplay mechanics, it is marred by issues related to depth and balance. The game successfully incorporates elements of team-based strategy and character diversity, as noted by GamingBolt and TechRadar Gaming, but it may struggle to maintain long-term player interest due to its repetitive nature and limited variety in gameplay modes. Critics seem hopeful for future updates to enhance the experience, but as it stands, the game presents a mixed bag of enjoyment and frustration, making it a title that may appeal to some while leaving others wanting more.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Crash Team Rumble dazzles with vibrant, cartoonish graphics that capture the spirit of Crash Bandicoot, earning praise for its colorful aesthetics and intricate map designs. However, critics also point out flaws like basic graphics, aliasing issues, and a lack of environmental diversity, leading to a mixed reception. While fans enjoy the visuals, there's a consensus that the game could benefit from better graphical polish and more varied settings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

40%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Crash Team Rumble have received a largely positive reception from critics, who commend the game's vibrant and colorful aesthetics that are reminiscent of the beloved Crash Bandicoot franchise. Reviewers like Finger Guns and Hardcore Gamer highlight the "crisp visuals" and "beautiful visual design," noting that the game successfully captures the cartoonish style that fans have come to expect. Many critics, including GamingBolt and GGRecon, praise the intricate and diverse map designs, which are said to be inspired by the core Crash Bandicoot games, showcasing a significant level of detail and creativity. The fluid animations and overall presentation have also been noted positively, with COGconnected and LevelUp emphasizing the game's lively animations and strong art style that contribute to an engaging experience. However, not all feedback is positive, as several critics point out various shortcomings in the game's graphics and visual design. Jeuxvideo.com, for instance, mentions "basic graphics" and "aliasing issues," which detract from the overall experience. Additionally, some critics, like TheGamer and WellPlayed, express concerns about the lack of variety in map aesthetics and the limited environmental diversity, suggesting that while the visuals may be colorful, they can feel repetitive and uninspired. Critics such as PlaySense also note that some textures could be sharper, indicating that while the game has its strengths, it falls short in certain technical aspects. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the graphics and visual design of Crash Team Rumble is a mixed bag. While many reviewers celebrate the game's vibrant and faithful representation of the Crash Bandicoot universe, others highlight technical flaws and a lack of depth in visual variety. Critics like Metro GameCentral describe the graphics as "quite good" but functional, suggesting that they serve their purpose without pushing the boundaries of visual fidelity. Ultimately, the game seems to resonate well with fans of the franchise, but it also leaves room for improvement in terms of graphical polish and environmental diversity, as pointed out by multiple reviewers.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Crash Team Rumble impresses with nostalgic sound design and a strong soundtrack that resonates with Crash Bandicoot fans, enhancing gameplay. Critics praise the lively OST and audiovisual presentation, but some feel the music lacks memorability and distinctiveness, blending into the background. Overall, the nostalgic elements shine through despite a few critiques, making the audio experience enjoyable for many players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

35%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

65%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The reviews for the sound design and music of Crash Team Rumble generally highlight a strong positive sentiment, particularly regarding the nostalgic elements that resonate with fans of the Crash Bandicoot series. Critics like ZTGD and KeenGamer emphasize the fantastic original soundtrack (OST) and the inclusion of music from major Crash titles, which adds a layer of nostalgia for long-time players. Finger Guns and Hardcore Gamer both note that the music captures the essence of the franchise, enhancing the gameplay experience. Additionally, Hobby Consolas appreciates the lively soundtrack that complements the chaotic multiplayer gameplay, while SECTOR.sk praises the audiovisual presentation as fantastic, further enriching the overall experience. However, some criticisms emerge regarding the sound design and music's impact. Vandal mentions that while the music does not stand out, important audio cues are present during gameplay, suggesting a lack of memorability in the soundtrack itself. WellPlayed echoes this sentiment, describing the sound design as blending into the background, becoming "ghost-crowd white noise." This indicates that while the sound effects are present, they may not contribute significantly to the game's atmosphere or player engagement. Screen Rant also points out that some unlockable music and cosmetics feel generic, which could detract from the overall excitement of the audio experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Crash Team Rumble successfully incorporates familiar musical motifs and sound effects from the Crash Bandicoot series, evoking nostalgia and enhancing the gameplay for many players. While there are some critiques regarding the distinctiveness and engagement level of the music, the majority of reviewers, such as TRG and Multiplayer.it, agree that the sound design effectively supports the chaotic nature of the game. The presence of nostalgic tunes and the option to unlock classic tracks are seen as significant positives, even if some aspects of the audio experience could have been more impactful.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Crash Team Rumble receives mixed reviews on Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5. The PS5 version shines with smooth performance and quick matchmaking, despite minor issues like loading times and menu errors. Xbox Series X struggles with frustrating loading times and bot-filled lobbies, raising concerns about matchmaking and player engagement. Overall, PS5 is favored for a more stable experience, but both platforms have room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

24%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Crash Team Rumble has garnered a mix of opinions across different gaming platforms, particularly focusing on the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5. On the Xbox Series X, critics like Jeuxvideo.com noted that while loading times could be frustrating, there were no major technical issues reported, suggesting a generally stable experience. ZTGD, however, highlighted a concern regarding the game filling lobbies with bots shortly after launch, which could indicate potential matchmaking issues. On the PlayStation 5, the sentiment is largely positive, with multiple reviewers such as Finger Guns and GGRecon praising the game for running smoothly without crashes or bugs. GamingBolt also commended the quick and efficient matchmaking, indicating a robust online experience. Overall, the PS5 version appears to be well-optimized, with several critics like Multiplayer.it affirming its solid technical performance. Conversely, the negatives for each platform reveal some areas for improvement. On the Xbox Series X, the primary criticism is the frustrating loading times, as noted by Jeuxvideo.com, while ZTGD's mention of bot-filled lobbies raises concerns about the game's longevity and player engagement. For the PlayStation 5, while many reviews are positive, there are still notable issues. GameSpot pointed out problems with menus and error messages that detract from the overall experience, while PlaySense and TRG highlighted lengthy loading times and server connection issues, respectively. Additionally, TRG criticized the lack of accessibility options, which could alienate some players. This suggests that while the PS5 version is generally stable, it is not without its flaws. In summary, the overall consensus among critics indicates that Crash Team Rumble performs reasonably well on both platforms, with the PS5 version receiving more favorable reviews. Critics like WellPlayed and TechRadar Gaming have acknowledged the game's functional nature and stable performance, despite some recurring issues with loading times and server connectivity. While the Xbox Series X version has been noted for its stability, the concerns about bot-filled lobbies and loading frustrations suggest that it may not be as polished as its PS5 counterpart. Overall, while both versions have their strengths, the PS5 seems to offer a more consistently positive experience, albeit with some areas needing attention.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Crash Team Rumble boasts addictive gameplay and enjoyable mechanics, with a variety of roles and a Battle Pass system to encourage engagement. However, critics warn of its limited depth, repetitive nature, and matchmaking issues that could stifle long-term interest. While some see potential for future updates, many recommend waiting for more content before diving in, leaving the game's replay value uncertain.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

81%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

17%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions regarding the replay value of Crash Team Rumble reveal some positive aspects that critics have highlighted. Many reviewers appreciate the addictive nature of the gameplay, with several noting that the game is easy to pick up and play, making it suitable for short gaming sessions. Destructoid praises the variety of roles, characters, and maps, suggesting that the unpredictability of each match contributes to its replayability. Additionally, the inclusion of a Battle Pass system, as mentioned by critics like Game Informer and SECTOR.sk, provides incentives for players to engage with the game over time through unlockable cosmetics and character progression. Critics such as GamersRD also recognize the potential for future seasonal events and challenges to enhance replay value. However, there are significant concerns raised about the game's replay value due to its limitations. Many reviewers, including Jeuxvideo.com and Metro GameCentral, point out the lack of depth and variety, with several noting that the game quickly feels repetitive after only a few hours of play. Critics like BaziCenter and PlaySense highlight issues such as matchmaking flaws and the absence of multiple game modes, which may lead to diminishing returns for players. The consensus among many reviewers is that while the game offers some engaging mechanics, the current content is insufficient to sustain long-term interest, with a notable emphasis on the limited character roster and maps. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, leaning towards caution regarding the game's replay value. While some reviewers, like Shacknews and Destructoid, find enjoyment in the gameplay loop and the potential for future updates, the overwhelming sentiment is that Crash Team Rumble suffers from a lack of content and variety, which could hinder its longevity. Critics such as KeenGamer and LevelUp express hope for improvements through future updates, yet many recommend waiting for additional content before fully committing to the game. The combination of a solid foundation for gameplay and significant shortcomings in content leaves the game's replay value in a precarious position, suggesting that its success will heavily depend on the developers' ability to deliver on promised updates and expansions.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

17%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

80%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment surrounding Crash Team Rumble is a mix of appreciation for its engaging gameplay and concerns about its long-term viability. Many reviewers, such as Pure Xbox and Shacknews, highlight the game's fun and addictive nature, praising its slick design and enjoyable multiplayer experience. Critics like Digital Chumps and GamingBolt commend the balanced gameplay, unique characters, and strategic depth, suggesting that the game can be a worthwhile addition to multiplayer sessions, particularly for fans of the Crash Bandicoot franchise. The game is also noted for its reasonable price point, with some reviewers like Digital Chumps considering the $29.99 price tag fair for the content offered. However, a significant portion of the reviews point to serious drawbacks that could hinder the game's success. Critics such as GameCritics and Game Rant emphasize the lack of content and game modes at launch, which may not justify the price for many players. The game is described as feeling "barebones" by GGRecon and lacking depth and variety by Gamereactor UK. Additionally, concerns about balancing issues and matchmaking problems are echoed by multiple reviewers, including Finger Guns and TechRadar Gaming, indicating that these elements could frustrate players and affect long-term engagement. The inclusion of a battle pass and in-game purchases has also drawn criticism, with several critics, including God is a Geek and Hardcore Gamer, suggesting that these aspects detract from the overall experience. In conclusion, while Crash Team Rumble has garnered praise for its fun and engaging gameplay, the consensus among critics indicates a need for significant improvements in content and balance to ensure its longevity. Reviewers like But Why Tho? and Metro GameCentral express concerns that the game feels incomplete or lacks the ambition expected from a title in the Crash Bandicoot franchise. Overall, while there is potential for the game to grow through updates and community support, many critics suggest that prospective players may want to wait for enhancements before fully committing to the experience.

TL;DR

Crash Team Rumble impresses with its fun gameplay and reasonable $29.99 price, appealing to Crash Bandicoot fans. However, reviews highlight major flaws like a lack of content, balancing issues, and questionable monetization practices, raising doubts about its long-term viability. Critics suggest waiting for improvements before diving in.

MONSTER

Reviews

83 reviews found

Gaming Nexus

PlayStation 5

Jun 29, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer enjoys Crash Team Rumble and praises it as a deeply enjoyable game.

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Digital Chumps

PlayStation 5

Jun 20, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is praised for its balanced gameplay, unique characters, and strategic maps. The $29.99 price is considered reasonable for the content offered.

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ZTGD

Xbox Series X

Jun 30, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review states that Crash Team Rumble is a blast and enjoyable for those with fond memories of the old games, but the future looks grim due to the fickle nature of multiplayer audiences.

Shacknews

PlayStation 5

Jun 19, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review overall praises the game, describing it as a blast and a well-put-together effort. It mentions that the live service elements feel out of place, but ultimately cannot hate the final product.

Pure Xbox

Xbox Series X

Jun 23, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review is overall positive, stating that the game is slick, addictive, and well worth getting involved in.

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GameGrin

Jun 30, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Crash Team Rumble is recommended for fans of Crash Bandicoot and multiplayer players. It stumbles in some areas but manages to get a lot right.

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Game Informer

PlayStation 5

Jun 21, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review suggests that Crash Team Rumble offers a unique and enjoyable multiplayer platforming experience with enough depth to keep players engaged.

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GamingTrend

PlayStation 5

Jun 27, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review overall praises Crash Team Rumble as a fun multiplayer game with quirks and imbalances.

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Gamers' Temple

PlayStation 5

Jun 21, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is praised for being a competitive multiplayer platformer that is fun to play. The final rating is 78%.

PlaySense

PlayStation 5

Jul 19, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fun and chaotic multiplayer experience with strengths in character diversity, level design, and performance. Falls short in balance, game modes, and connectivity issues. Priced reasonably at €29.99 and enjoyable as a casual game with friends.

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