Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time is a 3D platformer available on Nintendo Switch. Players control Crash or Coco as they navigate linear stages across multiple dimensions to stop Neo Cortex and N. Tropy from disrupting the multiverse.
Gameplay
The core loop centers on precise jumping, spinning attacks, sliding, and ground slams to traverse obstacle-filled environments. Levels feature a mix of 3D corridors and occasional 2D perspectives, with hazards like crates, enemies, and moving platforms. Crash and Coco handle identically, allowing free switching on the level select screen. Two difficulty styles are available from the start and changeable in options. Modern style provides infinite lives with returns to the latest checkpoint on death. Retro style limits lives that decrease on damage, requiring restarts from the beginning of a level if all are lost.
Four Quantum Masks introduce new mechanics during specific segments. Lani-Loli phases platforms and objects in or out of existence. Akano enables a powerful dark matter spin for gliding and deflecting projectiles. Kupuna-Wa slows time to handle fast-moving elements. Ika-Ika reverses gravity to walk on ceilings and alter paths. Additional maneuvers include wall running, rail grinding, and rope swinging. The game includes around 30 main stages divided into dimensions, plus boss encounters that test the same platforming skills.
Game Modes
Normal mode delivers the standard story progression through each level. Time Trial mode removes checkpoints and challenges players to finish as quickly as possible after unlocking the stopwatch icon. N. Verted mode, unlocked after the fourth world, presents mirrored versions of main path and timeline levels with unique visual filters and occasional gameplay alterations, such as altered lighting or speed changes, plus extra gems to collect.
Local multiplayer supports up to four players on a single system. Bandicoot Battle offers competitive options with Checkpoint Race, where players compete for the fastest times across checkpoints while viewing ghost replays, and Crate Combo, where breaking boxes builds a multiplier for higher scores before the meter depletes. Pass N. Play provides cooperative play by passing the controller on death to continue through story or N. Verted levels.
Collectibles and Replayability
Each main stage offers six gems earned through specific challenges, such as smashing every crate, collecting a high percentage of Wumpa fruit, completing the level with few or no deaths, or locating a hidden gem. Gathering all gems unlocks cosmetic skins for Crash and Coco. Flashback Tapes scattered in levels open optional 2D side-scrolling stages that reference earlier games in the series. Timeline versions of certain stages add alternate crate layouts and story details once extra characters become available. These elements encourage multiple playthroughs to achieve full completion.
Is It Worth Playing?
Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time delivers challenging platforming that rewards practice and precision. The Modern mode lowers the barrier for players who prefer checkpoint-based progression without lives, while Retro mode appeals to those seeking the stricter original formula. Local multiplayer modes add variety for couch sessions, though the experience remains primarily single-player focused. The Switch version supports TV, tabletop, and handheld play with up to four players locally. Reception has been positive for its level design, visual style, and faithful return to the series roots, with many noting the high replay value from collectibles and alternate modes. It suits fans of precise 3D platformers who enjoy exploration and mastery over repeated attempts. Those seeking ongoing updates or online features will find a complete, self-contained package instead.
