Review: ASTRO's PLAYROOM

A wonderful little 3D platformer packed full of content for you to explore as you take a trip down PlayStation memory lane. You’ll be forgiven if you thought this was just a little twenty-minute experimental demo when you heard it’s free and included with the new PlayStation 5 console as in fact it’s so much more than that.

From the team behind the critically acclaimed PlayStation VR adventure ASTRO BOT: Rescue Mission, Astro’s Playroom is a 3D platformer in which you’ll explore four worlds, each one showcasing innovative gameplay using the new and versatile features of the PS5 DualSense™ wireless controller.

You’ll get a true sense of what this new controller is capable of as you begin to explore each world and get a feel for the Adaptive triggers and Haptic feedback as well as the improved motion sensors and touchpad. Each of these features is shown off in an experience that’s tailored to providing an enjoyable introduction for the player as you roll in the mud, skate on the ice and zip up your suit you’ll feel every part involved in this game.

Filled with coins to gather, hidden collectables and jigsaw pieces to claim there is a lot to do in the lovable wit filled environment as you are consistently spotting references to some of the greatest PlayStation titles and characters of previous generations. I lost count of how many there are throughout the game and was delighted to realise that you can interact with some of these little scenes.

The concept of the collectables is simple, you’re piecing together the history of PlayStation and as you gather them in their new home, the ‘PlayStation Labo’ room you’ll be able to explore, jump on and interact with them. Also in here, you’ll find an arcade-style grabber machine to spend your hard-earned coins in exchange for a chance at unlocking more collectables.

This is a real stand out in the platformer genre and the type of game you’d expect to see released from the likes of the Mario franchise. It’s full of well-executed concepts and mechanics that just make sense rather than trying to be overly complex.

It serves as a brilliant introduction for the whole family as it combines the engaging and exciting experience of both the controller and gameplay whilst exploring its gorgeous little world.

ASTRO's PLAYROOM

Platforms: PlayStation 5 (Available now)

Genre: 3D Platformer

Developer: Japan Studio’s Asobi Team division

Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment