TEAM EVALUATION: Crypt Custodian (PS5/Switch)

We don’t often get the thrill of diving into a cross-platform review, so it’s always fascinating to see how a single game holds up across different systems. In our tech-savvy world, you’d think everything would be on an equal playing ground, but that’s not always the case. With this idea in mind, my pal Albert Eres and I took it upon ourselves to check out Crypt Custodian, a fresh entry into the Metroidvania genre that has just arrived on both PCs and consoles. For this review, I’ve been exploring the PS5 version, while Albert has been testing the waters on the Switch. Let’s see if this game gives us something to rave about.

Crypt Custodian is all about a cat that finds itself in the afterlife. For some silly reason, it doesn’t earn a spot in heaven and is instead tossed into a realm outside The Palace. Armed with nothing but a broom, it is tasked with tidying up a less-than-pleasant part of the afterlife. While the premise might seem a bit out there, the story is surprisingly well-written with a lighthearted charm that’s hard to resist. It’s refreshing to encounter a game that doesn’t take itself overly seriously and it does a splendid job of making characters you’ll meet on your journey quite endearing, which can be a tall order in the Metroidvania landscape—a realm that’s typically action-packed and light on narrative. Seeing a game bring something slightly off-beat into the genre is like a breath of fresh air.

The thing I adore about Crypt Custodian is that it breaks away from the typical side-scrolling mold. Many Metroidvanias expand upon platforming, but this one opts for a top-down adventure, echoing the style of classic games like Zelda: A Link to the Past. For someone not particularly keen on frenetic platforming, this viewpoint is a welcome change. The top-down perspective offers a precision in movement that alleviates much of the frustration often found in platformers.

True to Metroidvania form, you won’t access all map areas right from the start. There’s some backtracking involved, which not only ensures you are ready for new challenges but also means you won’t stumble into zones you’re underprepared for. This creates an interesting paradox: while the game is far from linear and absolutely encourages exploration, you can’t venture anywhere right off the bat, which helps make the exploration feel manageable. This way, you’re never overwhelmed by what Crypt Custodian serves up.

Crypt Custodian strikes a delightful balance between action and puzzles. For those itching for combat, there’s plenty to get into, but the fighting never hits a frustration threshold. Equally, the puzzles are engaging, challenging your brain without going overboard in complexity. If you find yourself stumped by a puzzle, it’s likely that you’ve merely overlooked something minor. This perfect blend of brainstorming and broom-swinging action creates a pace that keeps you hooked.

Another enjoyable aspect is the abundance of collectibles and upgrades scattered across the game. These can be crucial, offering passive abilities to enhance your gameplay experience. Plus, there are hidden cats to be rescued—find them all, and their mom will generously reward you. Off-the-beaten-path discoveries provide a nice diversion when you feel like taking a break from the main quest. Take advantage of handy warp points that make revisiting areas a breeze without the hassle of tedious backtracking.

Warp points play a crucial role in your adventure, serving as save spots, equipping areas, and teleportation hubs. Finding these becomes a priority in new territories. The thrill of uncertainty adds a layer of excitement: head off in the wrong direction and you might find yourself deep into unexplored sections with only a sliver of health left. Reaching the next warp point can bring an exhilarating sense of relief, knowing you won’t lose your progress.

The graphics in Crypt Custodian exude a charming, arcade-like vibe, with top-notch sound design and smooth controls on the PS5. As someone who’s usually hit-or-miss with Metroidvanias, largely due to my dislike for platformers, Crypt Custodian manages to win me over without inducing the usual frustration. If this type of gameplay tickles your fancy, you’re in for a treat. Its nostalgic 90s RPG feel brings back fond memories. Personally, I consider this game a fantastic addition to my collection, and I’m eager to see it through to the end.

Crypt Custodian definitely shines as a refreshing take on the action genre, which often gets crowded with Soulslike games. Drawing inspiration from the legendary Zelda and Metroid series, it offers a unique, customizable experience that casual gamers will thoroughly enjoy. Its whimsical story, featuring a cat protagonist, is both endearing and engaging.

One delightful feature of the game is the clear attack indicators for enemy projectiles, regardless of difficulty. Unlike some modern games that expect players to anticipate every move, Crypt Custodian offers a layer of predictability, making gameplay accessible yet challenging.

Customization is another highlight, with the ability to adjust elements like attack power and fall damage. For many, these options mean the choice between an enjoyable gaming experience and walking away in frustration. Crypt Custodian brilliantly navigates this, keeping both story buffs and art fans engaged without the pressure of punishing difficulty.

An issue I discovered with the Switch version is an annoying bug that reverts assist options to their default settings after a few screens. Nonetheless, the extra time option for puzzles is a game-changer. Often, difficulty settings overlook puzzles, focusing instead on combat aspects. Here, players are granted additional time for tricky challenges, making them more approachable.

If you’re a casual gamer, a fan of classic RPG vibes, or someone simply charmed by our feline friends, Crypt Custodian is a delightful addition to your gaming library. Its joyful balance of playability and charm ensures the less daunting sections are a pleasure to navigate, providing endless enjoyment along the way.

Overall Score: 9/10