Publisher: Vivendi Universal
Ages:
eight and up.
Family
Rating:
Parental
Advisory:
Arcade fighting
In a novel blend of two popular genres: Crash Bandicoot and Spyro, Vivendi Universal's Crash Bandicoot Purple: Ripto's Rampage offers a fun 2D scrolling arcade game. Crash literally crashes-in on Spyro's turf, journeying to Spyro's Dragon Realms and battling Spyro's nemesis, Ripto. The title features fun 2D arcade gaming, some 25 entertaining mini-games, decent multi-player activities and a card collecting reward system.
Spyro, the fiery dragon, crosses into Crash's territory in another Vivendi Universal game, Spyro Orange: The Cortex Conspiracy, to battle Crash's nemesis, Dr. Neo Cortex. It seems that Dr. Cortex (Crash's nemesis) and Ripto (Spyro's nemesis) have accidentally met up through underground portals and are set on taking over the entire universe. In an attempt to share resources and expand their territories, Cortex and Ripto are using the portals to flood their two worlds with their evil minions.
Crash and Spyro switch worlds with each other to discover the identity of the menace and save the universe. In his game, Crash attacks, jumps and double-jumps, and, in each level, goes against a formidable boss. Players also earn gems in the fun and varied mini-games.
Up to four players may link to play several multi-player modes that include Party Games, Wager Games and Card Trading. Connecting both Crash's and Spyro's titles offers options for unlocking content that includes additional multi-player activities, more characters and full sets of Crash Bandicoot Purple and Spyro Orange collector cards.
The graphics are good and while there's lots of fighting, it's bloodless. Crash fans will enjoy Crash Bandicoot Purple: Ripto's Rampage.
7/29/04 www.daytrum.com Editorial Staff
