Team Evaluation: Crypt Custodian (PS5/Switch)

Every now and then, we get the rare opportunity to review a game across multiple platforms. It’s always intriguing to see how a single title adapts across different systems, as technology doesn’t always bring parity in performance. With that in mind, my fellow gaming enthusiast Albert Eres and I have recently dived into Crypt Custodian, a fresh Metroidvania that has made its way onto both PC and console screens. I’ve been testing the waters on the PS5, while Albert has been exploring what the Switch edition brings to the table. With our differing experiences, the question is: do we both walk away singing the game’s praises?

Crypt Custodian throws us into a quirky tale where a cat finds itself in the afterlife. For reasons too zany to detail now, our feline friend is denied entry to heaven and left stranded outside The Palace. Given a broom, this unlikely hero is tasked with tidying up the less glamorous realms of the beyond. The narrative is delightfully offbeat, striking a neat balance between humor and plot depth. It’s refreshing to play a Metroidvania that steers away from intense melodrama, instead opting for a whimsy that imbues charm into its characters. This isn’t something often seen in a genre that usually prioritizes fast-paced action.

What I find particularly enjoyable about Crypt Custodian is its departure from the typical side-scrolling format. Opting for a top-down approach reminiscent of Zelda: A Link to the Past, the game provides a perspective that makes navigating its world more precise and less frustrating than its platforming counterparts. As with any Metroidvania, every area on the map isn’t reachable from the start, necessitating some backtracking. However, this clever gating ensures that players aren’t overwhelmed or stumbling upon challenges before they’re ready. It’s a finely-tuned dance that encourages exploration without ever feeling oppressive.

Crypt Custodian skillfully balances combat and puzzle-solving, never veering too far into difficulty that becomes annoying. For those who relish the thrill of combat, the game offers plenty of opportunities to satisfy that craving without pushing you to the brink of throwing your controller in frustration. Similarly, the puzzles are smartly designed to engage without feeling overly complex. Often, a fresh perspective will be enough to crack the more challenging conundrums, which keeps the momentum and engagement levels high.

Another aspect that keeps the game lively is its focus on collecting and discovering various upgrades. Whether you’re seeking skill-enhancing points hidden behind puzzles or embarking on a quest to reunite scattered cats with their mother, there’s always something to draw your attention. Handy warp points make revisiting past locations a breeze, which adds to the satisfaction of uncovering every secret the game has to offer.

Speaking of warp points, these wells aren’t just for fast travel—they’re your refuge to save progress and manage abilities. Finding your next safe haven can leave you on edge, especially when you’re venturing into unfamiliar territory with dwindling health. The relief upon discovering a new one is almost as thrilling as unlocking a new part of the map.

Playing on the PS5, I’m impressed by the game’s charming arcade-inspired graphics, engaging sound, and smooth controls. While Metroidvanias aren’t always my go-to because platforms intimidate me, this title had me eager to experience each new chapter. With a nostalgic nod to 90s RPGs and a firm grip on fun, Crypt Custodian is an absolute win—a gem that I foresee revisiting.

In the landscape of action games dominated by Soulslike titles, Crypt Custodian stands as a vibrant and welcome addition. Drawing on the legacy of Zelda and Metroid, it adds fresh elements that casual gamers will appreciate, enhanced by a whimsical cat-centered story. The presence of intuitive combat gestures, such as indicators signaling where enemy attacks will land, stands in contrast to the anticipation-heavy mechanics of other games, offering a breath of fresh air to players who are there for fun, not frustration.

One delightful feature is the game’s accessible assist options, which allow players to tweak elements like attack power and damage taken. This customization bridges the gap between simply enduring a game and wholeheartedly enjoying it, especially for those who might otherwise get deterred by difficulty spikes. It’s slightly unfortunate that the Switch port occasionally reverts these settings, possibly due to a bug, but it’s a minor blemish on an otherwise smooth experience.

Crypt Custodian will likely win the hearts of those who cherish more time on tricky puzzles, thanks to its considerate timing aids. Whether your focus is on unraveling its story or enjoying its challenges, the game graciously accommodates.

Ultimately, if you appreciate Zelda, Metroid, or simply harbor a love of cats, Crypt Custodian is worth your attention. It’s an enjoyable ride through a charmingly bizarre world, and it grants enough leeway to allow everyone a taste of its playful core, making it a true joy to play.