Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back: Information from Answers.com

Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back

Platform: PlayStation
Release Date: November 05, 1997
Similar Games: Super Mario 64 (Nintendo 64), Pandemonium! (Sega Saturn), Bubsy 3D (PlayStation), Crash Bandicoot (PlayStation), Pandemonium! (PlayStation), Gex: Enter the Gecko (IBM PC Compatible), Pandemonium! (IBM PC Compatible), Gex: Enter the Gecko (PlayStation), Yoshi's Story (Nintendo 64), Banjo-Kazooie (Nintendo 64), Gex: Enter the Gecko (Game Boy Color), Yoshi's Story (Nintendo 64), Super Mario 64 (Nintendo 64), Banjo-Kazooie (Nintendo 64), Super Mario 64 (Nintendo 64)

Game Description

Thanks to Crash Bandicoot, the world was a seemingly safe place again. Dr. Neo Cortex had been defeated; his body confined to a realm of infinity and terminal velocity. Unfortunately, the mad doctor crash-landed into an unknown world full of mysterious crystals. After running some tests, he deduced that they held tremendous power, but something was severely wrong.

It turns out that the crystals keep the world balanced; but some are missing and will soon cause the planets to align. When this happens, there will be a chaotic flux in the galaxy that will do much more damage than it will good. In an attempt to save the world -- you heard correctly -- Dr. Neo Cortex decides to create a Cortex Vortex that will, in theory, prevent this catastrophe from happening.

Even more ironically, he calls upon his arch-nemesis Crash Bandicoot to help him collect 25 crystals for the vortex device. Whether or not this is a carefully hatched scheme to lure the bandicoot in a trap remains to be seen...thus is the premise behind Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back!

There are thirty-four brand-spanking new levels including enough lip-smacking bandicoot-hungry enemies to start an entire army! Some of the various locations players will journey through include space stations, traversing through waterfalls, running through mountainous terrain while avoiding boulders, and also a stint in Antarctica that could have you polarized. The evil Ripper Roo makes his grand return along with all new baddies such as Komodo Moe, the enormous Tiny, and one-time Cortex partner N. Brio.

Naughty Dog have also included a "level hub" system where players are given a choice of levels they can complete in any order before moving on. It features some helpful characters as well, such as Coco Bandicoot -- Crash's brainy sister. Using the powers of her computer, she warns the adventurous bandicoot of any upcoming hazards and/or traps.

Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back also supports analog controllers and the standard digital pad. Along with this, a new slide move has been added to give Crash the ability to quickly destroy opponents on the run without having to stop or lose progressive speed.

Will it be the double-cross of the century? Has Dr. Neo Cortex really gone to the side of good? Find out in Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back! But one thing is for sure -- Crash Bandicoot is back, looking fitter and sexier than ever! ~ Brad Penniment, All Game Guide

Roots & Influences

Crash Bandicoot was Naughty Dog's first attempt at a 3D platformer and things went quite well, fan-wise. Despite a little bit of abuse from the media, who dismissed it as a clone, it soon became one of the best selling games on PlayStation. Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back features more of the same action while building upon the original's foundation. It includes new enemies and helpful characters, new moves, and more complex levels. ~ Brad Penniment, All Game Guide

Review: Enjoyment

Because of the exciting level design, spot-on controls, and enhanced graphics/gameplay mechanisms, Crash Bandicoot 2 is simply a joy to play. ~ Brad Penniment, All Game Guide

Production Credits

Company 1: Naughty Dog, Inc.

Created and Developed by: Andy Gavin, David Baggett, Bob Rafei, Justin Monast, Charlotte Francis, Stephen White, Greg Omi, Eric Iwasaki, Erick Pangilinan, Rob Titus, Joe Labbe II, Dan Arey, Morgan, Jason Rubin

Soundtrack by: Mutato Muzika, Mark Mothersbaugh, Josh Mancell

Character Design and Art Direction by: American Exitus, Inc., Charles Zembillas

Sound Effects by: Universal Sound Studios, Mike Gollom, Ron Horwitz, Kevin Spears

Voice of Dr. Neo Cortex: Clancy Brown

Voice of N. Gin and N. Brio: Brendan O'Brian

Voice of Coco Bandicoot: Vicki Winters

Animation Reference: Jeff Etter

Special Thanks: John Cutry, Dan Kollmorgen, Taylor Kurosaki, Joe Pearson

Company 2: Universal Interactive Studios

Producer: Mark Cerny

Special Thanks: Paul Rioux, Diane Fornasier, Jackie Evanochick, David Siller, Susan McCready

Company 3: Sony Computer Entertainment America

Executive Producer: Connie Booth

Associate Producer: David Gracia

VP Marketing: Andrew House

Sr. Director of Marketing: Peter Dille

Sr. Director of PR and Promotions: Jeff Fox

Sr. Marketing Manager: Ami Matsumura-Blaire

Sr. Public Relations Manager: Molly Smith

Creative Services Manager: Howard Liebeskind

Marketing Coordinator: Nemer Velaquez

QA Manager: Mark Pentek

Lead Analyst: Donovan Soto

Assitant Lead Analysts: Pete Mayberry, Anthony Gomez

Game Analysts: Ian McGuinness, Andrew Woodworth, Andrew Byrne, Jack Amato, Chris Johnson, Conner Morlang, Ivan Kougaenko, Ken Chan, Steve Dreo, Sean Burke, Tim Durzmal, Weldon Chen, Ryan Joesph, Annette Dancel, Bruce Cochrane, Christian Davis, Samuel Thompson, Leighton Chin, "Uncle" Dave Kinel, Ramon Concepcion

Special Thanks: TBWA Chiat Day, Donna Armentor, Shelley Ashitomi, Brian Balisreri, Maggie Baquero, Kim Bardakian, Gary Barth, Allan Becker, Christa Carter, Aimee Duell, Christy Favrhow, Kelly Flock, Peggy Gallagher, Phil Harrison, Kaz Hirai, Kerry Hopkins, Kim Hornecker, Jeff Hutchinson, Lisa Lunger, Colin MacLean, Nikki McGrath, Dennis O'Malley, Frank O'Malley, David Patton, Quinn Pham, Terri Rago, Yvonne Smith, Jack Tretton, Michelle Vercelli, Marilyn Weyant, and Michelle Whitmer

Company 4: Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

Producers: Shuhei Yoshida, Tsrumi -- 0600

Marketing Manager: Megumi Hosoya

Lead Analyst: Masayuki Mizuno

Special Thanks: Junichi B. Kobayashi

Company 5: Sony Computer Entertainment Europe

Sr. Producer: John Roberts

Associate Producer: David Bowry

Marketing Manager: Caroline Stokes, Kenny Mathers

PR Manager: Liz Ashford

Package Design: Axiom Design

Manual Design: Katherine Lee, Beeline Group ~ Matthew House, All Game Guide

Review: Overall

Though Crash Bandicoot generated a lot of attention, it wasn't all of an applauding nature. While many considered Naughty Dog's first platformer as a breakthrough in 3D cartoon styled visuals, the general consensus was that the title lacked originality and lively game design.

Like all platformers nowadays, it called out for a sequel. Naughty Dog promised better gameplay, richer levels and visuals, and a more in-depth quest that agreed with what many gamers were expecting and wanting. Where Crash Bandicoot was a mixed bag of sorts, Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back significantly improves over the original game in terms of gameplay and adding new ideas.

If you thought the original looked great, wait until you get a load of the sequel! Graphically, Crash Bandicoot 2 is even more brilliant than the original as it makes use of the PlayStation's impressive high-resolution mode. Naughty Dog has also increased the framerate significantly in addition to the polygon count. This results in a much smoother, fluid looking game. The various worlds/settings are more varied than the original with unique texturing that goes a long way when considering graphical depth is more important in the late 90s than ever.

As alluded to earlier, there were a lot of changes made in terms of gameplay and design. Not only does Crash have a few new maneuvers (you've just got to love his new dance), but Crash Bandicoot 2 builds on the linear single track levels by incorporating new vehicles, camera angles (overhead, 3rd person, side-scrolling), characters, and hidden goodies. The controls are generally perfect with a simple but intuitive layout and precise movement. It also supports Sony's Dual Shock Analog Controller in addition to other controllers for unprecedented analog controls; far superior to it's digital original.

Because it can still be compared to other cartoon-based platformers, Crash Bandicoot 2's sound effects and soundtrack isn't better or worse than the original version. It remains pretty much the same, which isn't a bad thing necessarily, and provides occasional humor and laughs. The voice acting is also quite decent and entertaining.

What really grabbed me about Crash Bandicoot 2 was the more varied and fresh level design. Whereas the original was a bit too ordinary, the sequel offers great gameplay; from being chased by massive polar bears and riding motorized turtles to blasting off into the sky with a rocket propelled jet pack, this game is always a joy.

In comparison to other platformers circa late 1997, Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back is right up there with the best of them. While still not terribly original, it's a great example of refreshing game design, spot-on controls, and scrumptious visuals. ~ Brad Penniment, All Game Guide

Review: Graphics

Running in the PlayStation's high-resolution video mode, Crash Bandicoot 2 features a better framerate and more detail than the original had. It looks quite splendid. ~ Brad Penniment, All Game Guide

Review: Sound

The cartoon styled music is suitable and the effects are refreshing and often humorous. ~ Brad Penniment, All Game Guide

Review: Replay Value

Though it's not a particularly difficult game, it offers unheard of variety and long-term challenges. ~ Brad Penniment, All Game Guide

Review: Documentation

The manual was a bit too simplistic and could have used some more information on enemies and items. ~ Brad Penniment, All Game Guide

Wikipedia: Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back

Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back

Developer(s)	Naughty Dog
Publisher(s)	Sony Computer Entertainment
Release date(s)	^NA October 31, 1997 ^PALDecember 1997 ^JPNDecember 18, 1997
Genre(s)	Platform
Mode(s)	Single player
Rating(s)	ESRB: Kids To Adults (K-A) ELSPA: 3+ OFLC: G
Platform(s)	PlayStation
Media	CD-ROM
Input	PlayStation controller

Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back, released in Japan as Crash Bandicoot 2: Counterattack of Cortex! (クラッシュ・バンディクー2 コルテックスの逆襲!, Kurasshu Bandikū Tsū: Korutekkusu no Gyakushū!^?) is a platform game and the sequel to Crash Bandicoot. It was developed by Naughty Dog and published by Sony Computer Entertainment for the PlayStation video game console and released in the United States of America on the Halloween of 1997.

Taking place in and around the fictional N. Sanity Island, Crash Bandicoot 2 follows the anthropomorphic bandicoot Crash. Crash is abducted by the series villain Doctor Neo Cortex, who has apparently turned over a new leaf and is now willing to save the world. Crash is then thrust into several parts of N. Sanity Island in order to gather Crystals and allow Cortex to contain the power of the upcoming planetary alignment and keep the planet from being destroyed. He is joined by Coco, who is suspicious of Cortex's true intentions, and partially by Doctor Nitrus Brio, who tries to convince Crash to gather Gems instead of Crystals.

On July 26, 2007, the game became available for download on the PlayStation Network, making it playable for both the PSP and PS3. However, like MediEvil and Spyro 2: Ripto's Rage it was removed a week later due to technical problems.

Gameplay

Crash Bandicoot 2's gameplay is largely similar to that of the original. Players make their way through a limited environment whilst breaking crates, each of which containing some kind of bonus. Breaking all of a level's crates earns the player that level's clear gem. The player can collect additional clear and colored gems by finding and touching them. If a player collects all of the gems in the game, the secret ending is activated.

Crash has several moves: jump, spin attack, body slam, slide, duck, crawl, and an extra-high jump performed by sliding or ducking and then jumping. Previously, sliding and body slamming (which both include the O button) were not possible in the original, because both square and O activated the spin attack. Stepping on a question-mark platform/trap door takes Crash to a bonus level. Going to special locations, where something is somehow out of place, brings Crash to one of five secret levels.

If the player manages to reach a certain point in some levels without losing a single life, the player can hop onto a platform with a Skull and Crossbones logo on it. This takes Crash to another path in the level of the main path and contains boxes and other secrets one might notice not being found on the main path. Several levels with this have a special gem other than the one for breaking all the crates in a level.

Plot

Setting

The enviroments in Crash Bandicoot 2 are varied, ranging from the forest/jungle/beach levels of Crash Bandicoot and the snow-filled Second Island, to the catwalk-filled insides of Cortex's space station, in which a jetpack must be used to navigate through some areas of the station. Much of the game is set on the very islands that Crash navigated through in the last game, while the last fifth of the game takes place in Cortex's space station.^[1] The jungle levels were originally to have featured ground fog, but this was abandoned when magazines and the public began to brutalize other developers for using fog to hide polygon count.^[2] The snow levels have become one of the more memorable locales among fans due to their plentiful effects, such as falling snow and reflective ice.^[2]

Story

The original Crash Bandicoot largely took place in the Wumpa Islands off the coast of southeast Australia. During an experiment, Neo Cortex and his assistant, Nitrus Brio, created Crash Bandicoot in an attempt to create a general for Neo's "Cortex Commandoes", but when Crash was inserted into the unfinished Cortex Vortex, he was deemed a failure, and was chased out of Cortex's castle. Before a female bandicoot could be experimented on, Crash returned to the castle, rescued the female, and attempted to escape on Cortex's airship. When Cortex tries to kill Crash, he ends up plummeting to his supposed doom, leaving Crash to escape.

At the start of the game, Cortex is seen having survived his fall and landed in a damp cave, where he discovers a large Crystal, and has a flash of inspiration. One year later, he is seen in a space station, being told by his new assistant Doctor N. Gin that to harness the Master Crystal's power, he will require an additional 25 "Slave Crystals", which are scattered across the Earth. Cortex, having no earth bound operatives, then abducts Crash (while he is searching for a spare battery for Coco's laptop) and persuades him to gather the Slave Crystals, telling him that he will use them to harness the planetary energy of the aligned planets and prevent Earth from certain doom.

Throughout his quest, Crash is contacted by Coco, who is continuously searching into Cortex's scheme and trying to figure out what Cortex is really using the Crystals for, as well as Cortex's former assistant, Doctor Nitrus Brio, who tells Crash that if he truly wants to save the world, he must collect Gems instead of Crystals, so that Brio may use the Gems to destroy Cortex. He is also Crash's primary opposing force, claiming to use all of his strength to prevent him from gathering crystals.

At the end, when all of the Crystals are collected, Coco reveals that Cortex actually intends to harness the force of the Crystals to turn every single human being on Earth into Cortex's mindless slaves with his new and improved Cortex Vortex, and Crash defeats Cortex once again, banishing him deep into space, but leaving his space station operational. After Crash gathers all 42 Gems, Brio uses the Gems to destroy Cortex's space station with a laser beam, temporarily ending Cortex's threat (but eventually starting Crash Bandicoot: Warped).

Characters

Main article: List of Crash Bandicoot characters

While traveling on his adventure alone, he does receives messages in the Warp Room from Doctor Cortex, his younger sister Coco, and the deranged scientist Doctor Nitrus Brio, Cortex's former right-hand man. The game also introduces Doctor N. Gin as Cortex's new right-hand man, while also marking the return of the insane kangaroo Ripper Roo and the introduction of three new enemies: the Komodo Brothers Joe and Moe, and the musclebound tiger, Tiny.

Voice Cast

Dr. Neo Cortex: Clancy Brown

Dr. Nitrus Brio, N. Gin, Crash Bandicoot(Presumably since his "Whoa!" sounds are the same from the first game): Brendan O'Brien

Coco Bandicoot: Vicki Winters

Reception

Crash Bandicoot 2's public reception has been overall positive in terms of critical reviews and acclaim, with an average rating of 89% on Game Rankings.^[3] GameSpot stated the game was a major improvement over its predecessor, praising the game's graphics and soundtrack, rating the game 8.6 out of 10^[4] in comparison to their rating of the original Crash Bandicoot as 6.8 out of 10.^[5] IGN, which rated it 8.5 out of 10, praised its graphics and controls but criticised its repetitive level design.^[6] Over three million copies of the game have been sold.^[7]

References

^ Crash Bandicoot 2 Gallery. Retrieved on 2007-06-23.
^ ^a ^b Setting. Retrieved on 2007-06-23.
^ GameRankings Retrieved 2007-07-9
^ GameSpot review Retrieved 2007-07-9
^ GameSpot Retrieved 2007-07-9
^ IGN review Retrieved 2007-07-9
^ Sales Retrieved 2007-07-9

External links

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Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back

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The Official Crash Bandicoot 2 Website

Reviews

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Crash Bandicoot series

Main series: Crash Bandicoot · Cortex Strikes Back · Warped · The Wrath of Cortex · Twinsanity · Titans

Handheld series: The Huge Adventure/XS · N-Tranced · Purple/Fusion

Spin-offs: · Bash · Nitro Kart · Tag Team Racing · Team Racing · Boom Bang!

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