Personal opinion about the best demo I've ever played. The best classic PlayStation game and a showcase of the PS5's potential.
Image credit: PlayStation / Sony Interactive Entertainment promotional art.
Source: PlayStation
Summary
- Name of the game: Astro's Playroom
- Launch date: November 12, 2020
- Developer: Japan Studio (Team Asobi)
- Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
- Platforms: PlayStation 5
- Genre: Platform / Adventure
- Context: Launch game included free with every PS5 console, designed to showcase the capabilities of the new DualSense controller.
History and narrative
Although Astro's Playroom does not have a traditional story, the game takes us on a charming journey with Astro, a friendly robot who explores the symbolic interior of a PlayStation 5. Each area of the game represents a component of the console, and is loaded with visual references, collectibles and tributes to the history of the five generations of PlayStation.
Astro is presented as the new PlayStation mascot in this era, without the need for dialogue. The game manages to build a rich and charismatic world through atmosphere, nostalgia and carefully designed details. The real narrative is experienced through the journey through the worlds, where in each one
you get a symbolic console (PS1, PS2, PS3, PS4 and PS5), remembering the legacy of the brand. As a PlayStation fan since the first generation, I can say that there are many references that will bring a smile to your face.
Gameplay
The gameplay is precise and highly polished, with a simple but effective structure: five themed worlds that you can traverse in any order you prefer. In each one you collect coins, unlock collectibles and discover new gameplay mechanics that feel fresh and varied.
DualSense is the real star. The game makes masterful use of its capabilities: adaptive triggers, haptic feedback, touchpad and microphone. Each zone introduces suits with unique functions: jumping like a spring, climbing with motion sensors, sliding like a frog, among others. The sensations transmitted by the controller, such as the resistance when pulling a spring or the vibration when walking through mud, greatly enhance the experience.
In particular, the “GPU Jungle” area is an excellent example of combining light combat, exploration and DualSense technology. It's a fun and creative game that demonstrates what the console has to offer right out of the box.
Graphics and visual design
Graphically it is impeccable. Animations are fluid, modeling is detailed and visual effects are vibrant. The futuristic cartoon-like art style gives it a lighthearted and accessible tone that fits the game perfectly. The levels are creatively designed and are completely in tune with the gameplay.
For a demo title, it is visually impressive. It clearly shows off the graphical power of the PS5, and does so in a friendly and colorful way that highlights all the technical elements of the console.
Sound and music
The soundtrack is upbeat, catchy and perfectly suited to each area. The “GPU Jungle” theme has become a fan favorite, and for good reason. The sound effects are of extremely high quality, enhanced by the DualSense integration, to the point that listening to them from the controller can feel even more immersive than from the TV.
There are no voices as such, but the sounds emitted by the robots are charming, funny and very well implemented, bringing character to the game and generating empathy with the characters.
Difficulty and accessibility
It is an extremely accessible game, ideal for those who are new to the world of video games or are getting to know a PlayStation for the first time. The learning curve is smooth and the experience is friendly for all audiences.
However, accessibility options are limited. Since DualSense is key to the experience, users with certain motor or visual disabilities may encounter barriers. This is one of the few aspects that could be improved in the future.
Additional content
The main campaign lasts between 3 and 5 hours. Although replayability is not high due to its linear structure, it includes timed challenges and mini-games in each zone that can extend the experience. It does not have expansions or additional content, but being a free title included with the console, its quality far exceeds any expectations. It is a short, but memorable experience.
Technical Aspects
Technically the game is very well optimized. It runs at a stable 60 fps, with 4K resolution and practically non-existent loading times. In my experience I found no bugs or glitches, which shows the level of polish and quality that Sony put into this title.
As an exclusive and tech demo game, it perfectly serves its purpose of showing off everything the PS5 can do from the first power-up.
Value for money
Astro's Playroom comes pre-installed and is completely free with the purchase of a PS5. While it's not technically “free” because you need to purchase the console, it feels like a very valuable gift from Sony.
It is one of the best technical demonstrations ever made for a console, and an excellent starting point to learn what the PS5 and DualSense can offer. It is unrivaled in its category and represents a very high standard of quality for a title at no additional cost.
Trophies / Achievements
- Platinum obtained: Yes
- Percentage of trophies: 100%
- Estimated time: Between 5 to 8 hours to platinum.
- Platinum difficulty: 2 out of 10. The platinum is very easy and very short, to that you add that it is a free game, it is almost an obligation to get the platinum and also a very fun one.
Conclusion
Astro's Playroom is not only a tribute to PlayStation history, but also an excellent showcase of what the new generation has to offer. Despite its short length, it's a charming and technologically impressive experience that all PS5 users should try.
My final rating for Astro's Playroom is:
4.2/5
