Crypt Custodian review (PS5)

Crypt Custodian, developed by Kyle Thompson and published by Top Hat Studios, offers a fresh twist on the familiar metroidvania and Zelda-like genres by combining exploration and combat with an unexpected task: cleaning up the afterlife. As Pluto, a recently deceased and mischievous cat, players are thrown into a strange but endearing world that’s filled with puzzles, upgrades, and plenty of dust to sweep away. We checked it out on a PlayStation 5.

The narrative is both quirky and intriguing, introducing players to an afterlife where cleaning up is the ultimate penance. After an ill-fated encounter with Kendra, the Afterlife Guardian, Pluto is banished from the palace and sentenced to an eternity of cleaning. Not our idea of a good time either. This premise sets the stage for a journey across a vast and interconnected world where players not only battle enemies with their trusty broom but also solve puzzles and uncover secrets in their quest to re-enter the palace. The story’s humor and charm are brought to life through a cast of memorable characters, particularly the other banished ghosts who have their own tales of woe they’re keen on sharing with you. This narrative element adds depth and personality, making the game all the more memorable.

In terms of gameplay, Crypt Custodian blends exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving in a way that is reminiscent of classic metroidvania titles. The game’s map is sprawling and interconnected, rewarding players for backtracking and using newly acquired abilities to access previously unreachable areas. The upgrades Pluto finds throughout the journey allow for additional customization as well, enabling players to tailor their playstyle. The mix-and-match system for these upgrades adds a layer of strategy, although it can sometimes feel like a bit of trial and error when finding the most effective combinations, walking the line between fun and frustration.

But while the idea of using a broom as a weapon is novel, the combat can feel repetitive over time. The enemies, while varied in design, often require similar tactics to defeat, which can make encounters feel less dynamic than they should. Additionally, some of the puzzles, while clever, can occasionally border on frustrating, especially when the game’s controls feel less responsive than desired. Minor issues, but worth mentioning.

Visually, Crypt Custodian is a treat. The game’s art style is vibrant and full of character, with each area of the afterlife offering its own unique aesthetic. The hand-drawn animations for Pluto and the various enemies add a level of polish that enhances the overall experience. The audio design, particularly the soundtrack, complements the game’s visual atmosphere well, though it doesn’t necessarily stand out as a major highlight.

In conclusion, Crypt Custodian is a game that stands out for its originality and charm. Its unique premise, engaging world, and delightful characters make it a worthwhile experience for fans of metroidvania and Zelda-like games. Small issues prevent it from reaching the upper echelons of the genre, but Crypt Custodian is still a wonderful and pleasant journey through a whimsical and mysterious afterlife, making it a more than solid addition to any PlayStation 5 library.

Score: 8.4/10