Asterix & Obelix XXL: Romastered is an action game for the PlayStation 5 that brings back the original 2003 adventure of the two Gauls in an updated package. Players control either Asterix or Obelix as they move through a series of levels set in different historical regions, using the strength from magic potion to battle enemies and complete objectives. The core loop centers on linear progression through stages filled with combat encounters, platforming sections, and light puzzle elements tied to freeing captured villagers.
Gameplay
The game follows a straightforward single-player structure where the two heroes travel across areas such as Gaul, Normandy, Greece, Helvetia, Egypt, and Rome. Switching between Asterix and Obelix happens at any time, allowing players to use their distinct abilities during fights and exploration. Combat involves basic attacks, special moves powered by the magic potion, and interactions with environmental objects to defeat groups of opponents. Platforming requires jumping across gaps, using whirl attacks to clear paths, and navigating obstacles that block progress toward the next area.
Enemies include Roman soldiers as the primary threat, along with pirates and Vikings that appear in specific stages. Each region presents its own set of challenges, from crowded arenas in Rome to more open exploration in Egypt. The remastered version keeps the original level design intact while improving visuals and adding the option to toggle graphics styles on the fly. Collectibles such as golden laurels appear throughout the stages for players who want to extend their playtime beyond the main path.
Game Modes
Four additional modes expand the experience beyond the standard campaign. Retro Mode lets players switch the visuals back to the original 2003 graphics at any moment for a nostalgic look. Course Mode tasks players with gathering all scattered coins in a level within a time limit, encouraging repeated runs and careful pathing that sometimes benefits from the retro visual toggle to spot hidden items.
Countdown Mode focuses on speed, requiring a quick dash to the end of the stage while avoiding obstacles that slow progress. Extreme Mode increases enemy numbers and toughness, turning regular encounters into tougher tests of combat skill and positioning. These modes can be selected after unlocking them through campaign progress and offer variety for players who finish the main story or want shorter, focused challenges.
Story and Setting
The narrative follows the classic Asterix formula of Gauls resisting Roman occupation. The goal is to rescue key villagers including Impedimenta, Panacea, and Getafix from captivity while traveling through the listed regions. Cutscenes and dialogue stay light and humorous, matching the tone of the source comics without adding new plot threads. The world consists of self-contained stages rather than a fully open map, so progression feels directed and episodic.
Is It Worth Playing?
This title suits fans of the Asterix series who enjoy straightforward action-adventure games with simple combat and exploration. The remaster preserves the original structure while adding the four modes for replay value, and the ability to switch between modern and retro visuals provides a direct comparison for nostalgic players. Reviews note that the combat and platforming feel dated compared to modern standards, with occasional technical issues like frame drops reported on older hardware. On PS5 the performance holds up better, making it a solid choice for those who already like the 2003 original or want a short, linear experience without complex systems. New players may find the mechanics basic, but the charm of the characters and the variety of modes keep sessions engaging for several hours.
