Gameplay Overview
Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back, following the first game, features the protagonist Crash, a marsupial bandicoot, who needs to navigate through different levels to stop the evil Doctor Neo Cortex. The game maintains its platform style played from a third-person perspective like other games in the Crash series.
Game Levels
The game is divided into five "warp rooms", each consisting of five levels. The player must complete all levels in a warp room before they can proceed to the next. This includes both platforming levels, where Crash must make it to the end, and boss levels, where Crash must defeat the boss character to progress. To complete a level, Crash must collect a crystal embedded somewhere along the level.
Gameplay Mechanism
The game introduces new mechanics such as sliding, belly flopping and a more versatile move-set for Crash to use, providing the player with more ways to defeat enemies or traverse tricky areas. Crash achieves this by performing timed jumps, avoiding or defeating enemies, and breaking 'crates' that can consist of an array of different items; for example, Wumpa Fruits, extra lives or Aku Aku, Crash's witch doctor mask, offering protection against harmful hits.
Collectibles
In addition to the essential crystals, players may also collect bonus items. There are hidden "bonus rounds" where players can earn Wumpa Fruits or extra lives, challenge rounds that offer a test of skill, and "Time Trials" which, when completed under a specified time, awards the player with a Relic. "Gems" are secondary collectable items that require the player to break all boxes in the level without losing a life or finding and entering its hidden route.
Game Plot
The plot of Crash Bandicoot 2 sees the return of its protagonist, Crash, and antagonist, Dr. Neo Cortex, in new and exciting surroundings. After Cortex kidnaps Crash, he tries to convince the bandicoot that he has turned over a new leaf and wants Crash's help to avert an upcoming disaster. However, Crash's sister Coco remains suspicious of Cortex. The game encourages players to trust in Coco's skepticism and to question the true nature of Cortex's plans.
Ending Note
Overall, the gameplay in Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back seamlessly combines all of these elements to create a fast-paced and thrilling platformer experience. The real charm of the game is its simplicity combined with the intricacy of its levels, myriad of collectables, and a humorous plot. It's a step forward from the original game with improved graphics, more diverse character interactions, and a multitude of new gameplay features bringing fun and challenge to gamers.
