Brilliant Level Design

When we think of flagship 3D platformers, titles like Super Mario Galaxy, Galaxy 2, and Odyssey immediately come to mind. These games are celebrated for their charm and remarkable inventiveness, often presenting levels that make players think; this could have been an entire game on its own! With that in mind, Astro Bot, Sony’s latest 3D platformer, features a level so imaginative it could easily stand alongside the best Mario adventures.

Developed by Team Asobi, an internal division of Sony, Astro Bot takes the foundation laid by Astro’s Playroom, the free PS5 title that showcased their creativity. My previous hopes for this talented team to venture beyond promotional mini-games have been realized, and what they’ve delivered is nothing short of magnificent.

Among the many standout moments in Astro Bot, one level, Downsize Surprise, shines exceptionally bright. Found in the second galaxy, the Tentacle System, this level introduces a mechanic that allows players to shrink and grow at will—a concept seen in various games but executed here in a refreshingly innovative manner.

While shrinking mechanics have been utilized throughout gaming history, including in The Legend of Zelda series and numerous 2D Mario titles, Astro Bot elevates this trope to new heights. This level doesn’t simply allow players to explore in miniature mode; it requires a clever interplay of both sizes to navigate challenges, and the ability to switch between them at any time adds a remarkable layer of complexity.

From a design perspective, this is groundbreaking. Typically, such mechanics involve set points where players change size, but you can freely toggle between forms here. This freedom feels magical, reminiscent of the whimsical moments in the Ant-Man films, where the transformation becomes part of the fun. Suddenly, a flowerbed transforms into a vibrant obstacle course, and a wooden trunk turns into a tunnel filled with surprises simply by pressing a button.

The joy of discovery is amplified when you realize there are multiple ways to leverage this ability throughout the level. While I won’t spoil all the surprises, I can say the thrill of experimentation is a core part of the experience.

However, Astro Bot hasn’t focused on this mechanic for too long. Soon, players are whisked away to Go Go Archipelago, where the action shifts dramatically. Team Asobi’s casual mastery of the shrink/grow mechanic is impressive; they could have explored it further but focused on new ideas instead.

This leads me to a thought-provoking point: Nintendo, take note. With a new 3D Mario game on the horizon, possibly set for the next console launch, it’s been seven years since Odyssey graced the scene. While I can’t dictate what Nintendo should include, I strongly urge them to revisit the concept of giant worlds as seen in Super Mario Bros. 3—but in a fully realized 3D format that continuously innovates.

Despite concerns about Astro Bot’s pricing, which matches that of a traditional AAA game, its concentrated joy far outweighs any price tag. This delightful platformer may challenge perceptions of what makes a game worth its cost, presenting a refreshing alternative to the endless cycle of shooter and survival titles dominating the market.

Astro Bot is a game that could make even the most established developers sit up and take notice. With its unique mechanics and sheer creativity, it stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of gaming, and it beckons players to experience something extraordinary. If you haven’t played it, do yourself a favor and dive in—you might find yourself rooting for a new contender in the 3D platforming arena.