Astro Bot: 10 Best Levels, Ranked

Astro Bot: 10 Best Levels, Ranked

As someone who grew up in the golden age of PlayStation, I must say that revisiting these nostalgic levels in Astro Bot has been an absolute joyride!


There’s been plenty of discussion about which games might be vying for Game of the Year come December. Titles such as “Black Myth Wukong” and “Final Fantasy Rebirth” are already strong contenders, but a new potential winner has emerged. This is because “Astro Bot”, the platforming successor to “Astro’s Playroom”, has left both fans and critics amazed.

“Many fans find themselves thoroughly enjoying their experience with Astro Bot. The music is appealing, the graphics are stunning, and the Dualsense controller plays a significant role in the game’s construction.

For my part, I find the most memorable aspects of this grand platform game lie within the various distinctive realms it presents. Perhaps you’re curious to know which ones stand out as the most amazing among them.

Well, allow me to give you a rundown of the best levels that Astro Bot has to offer.

10 Bubbling Under

Better Down Where It’s Wetter

Astro Bot: 10 Best Levels, Ranked

WorldCamo Cosmos
Power-UpPenguin Jets

In general, most video game players tend to dislike underwater stages due to limited time. However, Bubbling Under is an exception that proves the rule, as it’s quite enjoyable for many gamers.

This is partially explained by the fact that you don’t always remain submerged, but also due to the agile maneuverability provided by the Penguin Jet for a more lively, smooth, and adaptable movement in wetter environments.

Using your jets is an exhilarating experience, letting you soar past cascading waterfalls, plunge into hidden pockets of water, and discovering the underwater world of Astro Bot is every bit as delightful as navigating through any traditional land-levels.

In summary, though it may not become the top choice, given that it’s a water level, this excels in sandbox level design when compared to others dealing with water.

9 Slo-Mo Casino

Luck Be Your Lady Tonight

Astro Bot: 10 Best Levels, Ranked
WorldSerpent Starway
Power-UpSlo-Mo Watch

Being a huge fan of the original Sly Cooper game, this one seemed like an affectionate tribute to Boneyard Casino, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

On the other hand, what sets Sly apart from Astro is their unique abilities. While Sly doesn’t have time-manipulation powers, Astro does, enabling players to effortlessly navigate challenging platform levels by slowing down time.

Apart from being capable of slowing down swift-moving devices like whirling roulette wheels or speedy platforms, you will additionally have the power to effortlessly master slot machine games, making it seem almost trivial, and even utilize an adversary’s assaults back against them.

This level is visually appealing and well-constructed, and a careful exploration could potentially lead you to the notorious raccoon burglar.

8 Dude Raiding

Welcome To The Jungle

Astro Bot: 10 Best Levels, Ranked
WorldSerpent Starway
Power-UpNathan Drake’s Pistol

As someone who’s played through countless hours of gaming, I must admit, the level designs for the PlayStation IP-themed stages are nothing short of impressive, oozing with fan service and intricate details. Yet, it’s surprising that there are five more levels out there that have managed to outshine them in terms of popularity among gamers like me.

On the other hand, there is a distinct lack of depth, innovative mechanics, and overall enjoyment in one particular level – the Dude Raiding level, modeled after Uncharted.

To clarify, it’s important to note that the thrill of shooting a gun and vanquishing bad guys can be enjoyable. The search for Precursor eggs reminiscent of Jak and Daxter was quite intriguing. Moreover, the excitement of traversing environments using ropes and evading massive enemies in custom-designed scenarios is no less fun.

Conversely, it seemed to align better with typical benchmarks, enhancing the general feel of the game, yet these were the least impressive apocalyptic stages.

7 Trunk of Funk

Putting The ‘Bot’ in Botany

Astro Bot: 10 Best Levels, Ranked
WorldTentacle System
Power-UpElephant Sucker

As a dedicated gamer diving into the vibrant world of Astro Bot, I can’t help but notice that certain Power-ups seem to be underutilized. Among them, none stands out more than the Elephant Sucker Power-up. It deserves more screen time!

Experimenting with building your own playgrounds offers an enjoyable gameplay feature, providing expansive and free-flowing platforming areas. This leads to a delightful, yet somewhat simple, boss fight that concludes each stage.

However, some may argue that the best parts of this level happen right at the beginning in the mini-sandbox area where you’ll get to play a spot of golf, meet one of the cutest cows in gaming history, and you’ll also get to meet Papa Tree.

This level is particularly lively, colorful, and cheerful, brimming with an array of delightful details that make it a memorable experience when playing in Astro Bot.

6 Luna Sola

All Day, All Night

Astro Bot: 10 Best Levels, Ranked
WorldFeather Cluster
Power-UpN/A

I greatly enjoy games featuring an immersive day-night transition, and likewise, I’m captivated by titles that let players switch between dimensions or viewpoints to uncover fresh exploration opportunities.

In an impressive manner, the level Luna Sola of Astro Bot cleverly blends elements together, making the game feel as if Astro Bot is skillfully imitating the style of Fez.

Despite Phil Fish’s known grumpiness, it’s likely he won’t acknowledge Team Asobi’s good work. However, we feel compelled to do so, as this level they created is truly remarkable.

Although it may not be large by traditional measures, due to its complex layout and clever utilization of space, it gives off an impression of being substantial and meticulously crafted – making it seem as valuable as a richly detailed map.

Beyond its quirky music and playful graphics, it gives off an atmosphere of lighthearted fun, brimming with charm. Regardless of whether it’s daytime or night, sunshine or rain, one thing remains unchanged: our affection for this stage will always stay strong.

5 Downsize Surprise

Good Things Come in Small Packages

Astro Bot: 10 Best Levels, Ranked
WorldTentacle System
Power-UpShrinking Mouse

Discussing compact layouts that maximize minimal spaces, let me share my preferred design that isn’t modeled after an intellectual property (IP) from PlayStation consoles.

Initially, Downsize Surprise may appear simple, but once you unlock the mouse’s special ability, you start to see the intricacies, the depth, and the subtleties that were camouflaged all along.

Reducing your size enables you to access difficult-to-reach spots, and as a result, uncover the hidden mysteries nestled within every hidden corner and crevice.

As a gamer, I’m blown away by the ingenious level design that proves size isn’t everything. It’s amazing how much creativity can be packed into a small space. Every hidden nook and cranny feels like a rewarding discovery, making me feel like a detective uncovering clues in a puzzle-filled adventure.

The only criticism I have regarding this level is that there aren’t more like it, but then again, that ensures that this one stands out as memorable and special.

4 Bot of War

BOY!

Astro Bot: 10 Best Levels, Ranked
WorldTentacle System
Power-UpKrato’s Leviathan Axe

Some might perceive Kratos’ modern narrative as a gentler, more heartfelt, and emotionally intense portrayal compared to previous versions. Yet, it’s challenging to dispute that his appearance in Astro Bot represents the most adorable and snuggly version of the Spartan who typically slays gods.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but express my excitement over a level themed after God of War, affectionately dubbed “Bot of War.” In this immersive experience, you get to step into the boots of the legendary Kratos, handling his legendary Blades of Chaos, or Lethiathian Axe as I like to call it. This chilling level is said to be the icy abode where the God of War cast resides, offering a thrilling exploration of their frozen domain.

As a dedicated fan, I can’t help but notice the delightful homages to cherished PlayStation IPs scattered throughout this game. From encountering Jörmungandr to dispatching Odin’s Ravens, there’s an abundance of fun references to keep me engaged. Admittedly, it would have been a nice touch to have Mimir hanging from my backside, but I can certainly overlook that small oversight!

The main drawback is that the final boss might not meet your expectations, and there’s no option to navigate the map using a boat. However, the powerful God of War soundtrack helps compensate for these shortcomings. If you’re an enthusiast of Kratos and his companions, this game is definitely worth playing.

3 Apes On The Loose

Cheeky Little Monkeys

Astro Bot: 10 Best Levels, Ranked
WorldGorilla Nebula
Power-UpSpike’s Net

As a fellow enthusiast, I must say that if you haven’t already realized it from your thrilling escapades with Astro Bot, the PlayStation family has historically been home to some truly outstanding mascot platformers. Ape Escape is one of those hidden treasures that, unfortunately, seems to have slipped under the radar for many gamers.

Although we might not experience another complete Ape Escape adventure, we are treated to a delightful sneak peek of potential future content with Apes on the Loose. It’s a heartwarming trip down memory lane, reminiscent of the beloved Ape Escape gameplay format.

In this captivating sandbox world, I’ll be equipped with an unmistakable tracking device to flush out the mischievous monkey gangs from their secret hideouts. And when it’s time for the grand capture, I’ll have a spacious net at my disposal to round them all up!

This stage vividly demonstrates the endless enjoyment that Ape Escape provided, and continues to do so today. If you’re looking for a nostalgic trip, don’t forget to give it a try!

2 Machine Learning

Hit Your Mark

Astro Bot: 10 Best Levels, Ranked
WorldFeather Cluster
Power-UpAloy’s Bow and Arrow

It was quite predictable when I leaped into the Astro Bot’s Horizon-themed stage. I was well aware that it would involve conventional archery gameplay, dodging enemies like Watchers in tall vegetation, and at some juncture, climbing a massive Tallneck.

Even though I knew the script, I was nonetheless spellbound by this incredible universe teeming with intricate details and hidden gems.

The archery feels precise and swift; the graphics align with the Horizon style, offering a glimpse into how Lego’s Horizon adaptation could appear; and there were short underwater segments to pay tribute to Forbidden West, which it lacked upon its initial launch.

This stage serves as a reminder of the outstanding quality that the Horizon series consistently delivers. Given the upcoming remaster, now could be an ideal moment to re-experience its distinctive post-apocalyptic world.

1 Going Loco

Roll With The Punches

Astro Bot: 10 Best Levels, Ranked
WorldCamo Cosmos
Power-UpLoco-Roco Rolling

To be completely honest with you, there’s a strong subjective influence in my preferred option. Since I’m the one compiling this list, if you disagree and wish to engage in a discussion about it, feel free to join the conversation in the comments section.

In a simpler and more conversational style,

This version, since it couldn’t be two-dimensional, represents a significant deviation from the original content, but in an outstanding manner.

You retain the skill to split and reassemble your small shapes to navigate specific zones, you’re also capable of jumping into cracks in walls to uncover hidden passages, and you get to groove along to the fantastic Loco Roco soundtrack during your journey.

Due to the 3D adaptation of the popular PSP game, the stage feels like a mix between “Loco Roco” and “Super Monkey Ball”. To put it simply, this is an incredible combination that I find hard to dispute. In my opinion, it’s the best level in the game, and I’m not open to changing my mind about that.

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2024-09-30 14:09