A Love Letter to PlayStation's Legacy
Title: Why Astro’s Playroom is One of the Best Platformers of the Decade
When Astro's Playroom launched in November 2020 as a free title bundled with every PlayStation 5 console, few could have predicted how it would become a standout experience. Initially seen as a charming tech demo designed to showcase the power of the PS5’s DualSense controller, Astro’s Playroom quickly won over gamers with its delightful gameplay, impressive attention to detail, and heartfelt tribute to PlayStation’s history. In this blog, we’ll explore why Astro’s Playroom is not just a fun platformer, but a love letter to PlayStation fans, and why it continues to be one of the best platformers of the last few years.
1. A Love Letter to PlayStation's Legacy
From the very first moment you boot up Astro's Playroom, it becomes clear that this is a game made with deep affection for the PlayStation brand. The game takes place in the "PlayStation Labo," a colorful and whimsical world inside the PS5 console, with each level representing a different "piece" of PlayStation hardware.
As Astro (the cute little robot protagonist) explores the Labo, you’ll encounter areas inspired by past PlayStation consoles, from the PlayStation 1 all the way to the PS5. Each level is filled with subtle (and not-so-subtle) references to iconic games, consoles, and peripherals, rewarding long-time fans with nostalgic callbacks to PlayStation’s rich history.
The Astro's Playroom experience is more than just gameplay; it’s a celebration of everything PlayStation has accomplished over the years. From the old-school blocky PS1 graphics to the familiar "PS2 startup sound" remix, Astro’s Playroom is a celebration of PlayStation's legacy, filled with Easter eggs and cameos from beloved characters and franchises like Crash Bandicoot, Ratchet & Clank, LittleBigPlanet, and more.
2. Perfect Use of the DualSense Controller
One of the most impressive aspects of Astro’s Playroom is how it takes full advantage of the PlayStation 5’s DualSense controller. While many games utilize the controller’s adaptive triggers and haptic feedback, Astro’s Playroom goes above and beyond by making these features a core part of its design.
The adaptive triggers provide a tangible sense of progression as you traverse each level. For example, in some sections, the triggers will offer resistance to simulate the feeling of pushing through mud or pulling back on a slingshot. The haptic feedback gives a detailed sense of texture, from the soft feel of walking on sand to the sharp click of gears turning. This deep level of interactivity immerses players in ways that other games at the time simply didn’t.
In addition, the game features gyro controls, allowing you to tilt the controller to solve puzzles or interact with objects in the world. It’s a masterclass in how to make the most out of new hardware without being gimmicky, providing a deeper, more tactile experience than you might expect from a game of this size.
3. A Platformer with Personality
At its core, Astro’s Playroom is a platformer, but it’s one that oozes personality and charm. The game doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel; instead, it refines the genre by offering smooth, responsive controls, colorful environments, and plenty of fun challenges.
Astro’s moveset may be simple—running, jumping, and gliding—but it’s the way the game uses these abilities in creative ways that makes it shine. Each level introduces new mechanics and abilities, such as the ability to dash or use rocket boots, keeping the gameplay fresh and exciting throughout the game’s relatively short runtime. The platforming is challenging but never punishing, with a healthy balance between exploration and puzzle-solving.
The level design is brilliantly crafted, with each world offering unique themes, obstacles, and collectibles to find. From sliding down a snowy mountain in the PS2-inspired level to navigating through the nostalgic, pixelated environment of the PS1 era, Astro’s Playroom delivers an engaging and well-paced experience that keeps you coming back for more.
4. Gorgeous Visuals and Immaculate Sound Design
Despite being a relatively short game (lasting around 4-6 hours), Astro’s Playroom is a visual masterpiece. The art direction is whimsical, colorful, and brimming with charm. Each level feels like a different world within the PlayStation ecosystem, with vibrant landscapes, intricate details, and clever design elements that reward careful exploration.
The PS5’s hardware is showcased to its full potential here. The lighting is stunning, with realistic shadows and reflections, and the textures are sharp and detailed. It’s clear that Astro’s Playroom was designed to impress—not just as a tech demo, but as a fully realized world in its own right.
On the audio side, the game shines as well. The soundtrack is upbeat, catchy, and perfectly fitting for each stage. The sound design takes full advantage of 3D audio, with environmental sounds that make the world feel alive. Whether it’s the soft whirring of machinery or the satisfying clicks of collectible "artifacts" being picked up, every sound contributes to the immersive experience.
5. Replayability and Collectibles
While the main campaign of Astro’s Playroom may be short, the game offers plenty of reasons to return. Each level is packed with collectibles, including PlayStation artifacts (representing various consoles, accessories, and classic games) that unlock in-game trophies and lore. Some of these artifacts can be challenging to find, encouraging players to explore every nook and cranny of each stage.
Additionally, Astro's Playroom includes hidden puzzle pieces and memory cards, adding replayability for those who love 100% completion. These collectibles are carefully hidden in ways that encourage exploration without feeling like an annoying scavenger hunt, offering satisfying rewards for those who take the time to uncover them.
6. A Perfect Game for Everyone
One of the most impressive aspects of Astro's Playroom is how accessible it is to players of all skill levels. Newcomers to platformers will find the gameplay approachable, with intuitive controls and a steady difficulty curve that gently ramps up over time. Experienced gamers, on the other hand, can enjoy the game’s tight platforming mechanics, satisfying puzzles, and quest for all the collectibles.
It’s also a game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, making it a perfect family-friendly title. The characters are endearing, the puzzles are fun, and the visual design is captivating. It’s a game that feels like a joyride through PlayStation’s history, making it enjoyable for both nostalgic veterans and newcomers alike.
Conclusion: A Hidden Gem
In a year dominated by massive AAA releases, Astro’s Playroom may have flown under the radar for some, but it’s undoubtedly one of the most delightful and well-crafted platformers in recent memory. Its combination of clever level design, innovative use of the DualSense controller, and heartfelt tribute to PlayStation’s legacy make it a game that deserves to be remembered long after you’ve finished playing.
Whether you’re a hardcore PlayStation fan or simply looking for a charming platformer to enjoy in your downtime, Astro’s Playroom is a must-play experience. It may not be a massive, story-driven epic, but it’s a game that brings joy, creativity, and nostalgia in a way few others do. As a demonstration of the power of the PlayStation 5—and as a love letter to the PlayStation brand—Astro’s Playroom stands tall as one of the most unique and enjoyable games in recent years.
What do you think of Astro's Playroom? Did you enjoy exploring its colorful world, or was there a particular collectible or level that stood out to you? Let us know in the comments below!