TEAM REVIEW: Crypt Custodian (PS5/Switch)

It’s a rare pleasure to explore a game across different platforms, and it’s fascinating to see how the same title translates to various devices. Despite our high-tech expectations where everything should perform equally, that’s not always how it goes. With this in mind, my colleague Albert Eres and I dove into Crypt Custodian, a fresh Metroidvania that landed on PC and consoles. I took on the PS5 version, while Albert tried the Switch. Let’s see if we both walked away impressed!

Crypt Custodian tells the tale of a cat who finds himself in the afterlife. For reasons that are as quirky as they are nonsensical, he’s denied entry to heaven and instead, tasked with tidying up the grim realm outside The Palace. The narrative is refreshingly witty, striking a perfect balance of whimsy without taking itself too seriously. Characters you meet along this journey are charming and relatable, which isn’t easy to achieve in a Metroidvania setting, where intense action typically overshadows storytelling. It’s a breath of fresh air to have a game that dares to be different.

The first standout feature of Crypt Custodian is the top-down perspective, a departure from the typical side-scrolling approach of many Metroidvanias. It’s a refreshing change that evokes classic vibes akin to Zelda: A Link to the Past. Navigating from a top-down angle feels smoother and a lot less frustrating than frantic platform jumping.

True to Metroidvania roots, the game doesn’t hand you access to every area right from the start. You’ll need to revisit locations, as exploration is key, but you’re wisely shielded from impossibly tough challenges early on. Areas remain locked until you’ve honed the necessary skills, allowing for a manageable progression. This encourages exploration while keeping you from feeling overwhelmed by difficult surprises.

Crypt Custodian also masterfully weaves together action and puzzles. If you’re itching for a fight, the game satisfies without resorting to controller-breaking difficulty. Puzzles challenge you just enough to make you think, without veering into hair-pulling frustration. If a puzzle seems to stump you, often a subtle oversight is the issue rather than the puzzle itself. This thoughtful balance of brain-teasing and action keeps the engagement high.

Hunting for collectibles, a staple in extending gameplay, adds to the appeal. Be it upgrade points hidden in tricky spots or cats in jars scattered around, these quests motivate you to further explore and revisit old haunts. With warp points strategically placed, traveling back becomes convenient, not a chore.

Speaking of warp points, these wells let you save, swap abilities, and teleport around. They add a thrilling edge—as their locations in new areas are unknown, pushing you to navigate carefully to save progress lest you end up sent back after an untimely defeat.

Visually, Crypt Custodian sports a charming, arcade-style aesthetic. On the PS5, it handles wonderfully, with delightful sound and responsive controls. Although I’m usually lukewarm about Metroidvanias due to my lukewarm platforming skills, this game kept me hooked, eager to discover what lay ahead. Its 90s RPG charm, alongside nostalgic gameplay elements, brings back great memories, marking it as a welcome addition to my game library. It’s one I’m excited to finish.

Taking a broader look, Albert also shares a 9/10 rating for Crypt Custodian. It’s a refreshing twist in a genre currently crowded with Soulslike titles. Drawing inspiration from classics like Zelda and Metroid, it carves out its niche with customizable gameplay, making it inviting to casual players. The premise, deeply rooted in a cute narrative involving cats, is endearing.

One main advantage of Crypt Custodian is the intuitive attack indicators on foes that fire projectiles, making enemy encounters feel fair yet challenging. You’re not forced into a guessing game like many modern titles, keeping the action accessible without dampening its thrill.

One aspect Albert particularly enjoyed is the customizable difficulty, adjusting elements such as attack power and fall damage. This flexibility ensures players don’t abandon the game over frustration, allowing them to appreciate the storyline and art without feeling boxed out by difficulty spikes. However, he did notice a possible bug on the Switch where settings occasionally reverted, which might need addressing for smoother gameplay.

The thoughtful inclusion of extra time for puzzles offers relief for those who aren’t puzzle whizzes. Timed challenges still pose a fun test but are now more welcoming, especially for those keen on collecting upgrades.

Overall, Crypt Custodian is an excellent pick for those who love cats, enjoy the essence of Zelda and Metroid, or are just looking to unwind with a well-crafted adventure. With its delightful experience and cleverly gentle approach to difficulty, this game doesn’t just tell a charming tale—it lets you fully enjoy it.