3. Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back
Best Crash Bandicoot Games
It’s not uncommon for sequels to outshine their predecessors, and Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back is a poster child of this phenomenon.
Taking the formula established by the original and honing it to a fine point, the game addressed issues in the series’ design while adding in new features. The controls were tighter, allowing for more precise control of Crash in situations ranging from general platforming to battles with bosses.
This in turn allowed for more varied levels for players to take on. Alongside the array of standard hazard-filled platforming segments were zones where Crash would don a jetpack, or ride a Polar Bear cub to escape a larger, angrier bear. This all served to help the game stand on its own two feet while still staying faithful to the series’ core premise and story.
Speaking of which: The story, while not groundbreaking, further expanded on the characters and their interactions, even introducing some fan favorites like Crash’s sister Coco.
It was everything fans could have wanted it to be. Or at least, it was before the next entry on this list released.
