Game Review | Crash Team Rumble or Crash Team Stumble?
Crash Team Rumble, the team-based MOBA-like brawler set in the Crash Bandicoot universe, has garnered mixed reactions from both fans and critics. While some appreciate its potential for strategic gameplay and fun moments, others find it lacking the essence of what Crash Bandicoot fans truly desire. Crash Team Rumble’s deviation from the series’ traditional platforming and kart racing genres poses challenges for its acceptance within the Crash Bandicoot community and examines its future in the games industry.
Crash Team Rumble stands apart from its predecessors, offering a unique team-based multiplayer experience with heroes filling various roles and aiming to score points on opposing goals. While matches can sometimes feel mindless, those with coordinated teams showcasing strategic plays exhibit surprising depth. However, this core gameplay loop may not resonate with the average Crash fan’s expectations in today’s gaming landscape.
Crash Team Rumble faces an uphill battle as it deviates from the platforming and kart racing genres that the series is renowned for. Although Crash Bandicoot has dabbled in party games like Crash Bash, Crash Team Rumble does not align with the preferences of many Crash fans at present. It presents itself as a MOBA-like experience, framing an in-universe sport where Crash’s friends and foes participate when not engaged in combat. While it offers interesting twists on established concepts from the series’ history, it may not cater to the desires of devoted Crash enthusiasts.
Due to the game’s existing stigma and non-traditional genre, the future of Crash Team Rumble raises questions. With a price tag of $30, it may not pose a significant barrier for entry compared to higher-priced titles. However, a potential pivot to a free-to-play model could be a viable option. Crash Team Rumble’s battle pass and cosmetic progression system align with the mechanics of a live-service game and Activision’s history of offering free weekends for their titles may also provide an opportunity for skeptics to give the game a chance.
While Crash Team Rumble may not become the next major live-service phenomenon, it still has its moments of enjoyment. However, the odds seem stacked against it as it struggles to meet the expectations of die-hard Crash Bandicoot fans. The game’s future trajectory remains uncertain, leaving room for speculation about potential support, a free-to-play pivot, or the unfortunate possibility of its discontinuation. As we ponder the fate of Crash Team Rumble, one thing remains clear: Catbat undoubtedly leaves a lasting impression on players.
As the future of Crash Team Rumble hangs in the balance, there are several factors to consider. One aspect that could shape its trajectory is the possibility of future support. Ongoing updates, new content additions, and community engagement could help the game gain momentum and attract a larger player base. If the developers, Toys For Bob, listen to player feedback and address the game’s shortcomings, it could improve its standing among Crash fans.
Another potential avenue for Crash Team Rumble is a shift towards a free-to-play model. This strategy has proven successful for games like Fall Guys and Rocket League, allowing players to try out the game without the financial commitment. By removing the upfront cost, Crash Team Rumble could entice hesitant fans to give it a chance and potentially build a dedicated player community.
Activision, the publisher behind Crash Team Rumble, has a history of implementing free weekends for their games. This approach could provide an opportunity for players to experience the game firsthand and make an informed decision about its appeal. Such initiatives would be particularly beneficial for a game like Crash Team Rumble, which faces resistance due to its departure from the traditional Crash Bandicoot formula.
However, the road ahead is not without its challenges. The negative stigma surrounding Crash Team Rumble, combined with the live-service structure, poses a significant hurdle. The game’s $30 price point might not be a significant deterrent, but a free-to-play pivot could lower the barrier for entry even further. It would also align with the game’s progression system, making it conducive to a live-service model.
Further Reading: Game Review | Is Crash Bandicoot 4 a “Whao!” or a “No!”
Ultimately, the future of Crash Team Rumble remains uncertain. It will depend on how the game is supported, whether a free-to-play transition occurs, or if the project is discontinued altogether. Regardless of the outcome, one thing is certain: Catbat, a standout character in the game, has left a lasting impression on players. As fans eagerly await the next steps for Crash Team Rumble, they will be watching to see if the game can overcome its challenges and win over the hearts of Crash Bandicoot enthusiasts.
