A small company called Insomniac Games developed and released an online game about the purple dragon. No one could have imagined that it would turn out to be a massive success as it has become. However, that dragon Spyro was the first of a series that became one of the more popular games that were released on the Playstation. Spyro the Dragon proved gameplay can turn a game into an iconic experience. But, 15 years since it first released and was released, is it still a solid platformer?
Graphics, Sound, and Setting:
Spyro’s graphics are solid. Spyro has solid graphics. They’re not real but don’t pretend to be, Spyro is a cartoon game, and the graphics are filled with bright colors, realistic enemies, and lush settings. The game truly does offer the right atmosphere. Spyro is well-designed, and his moves are fluid and well-designed.
The sound of Spyro is able to do its job. Sound effects are original and, in the majority of cases, are well-designed. The music is well-organized. It is primarily techno-ish and energetic. Each level comes with different music. Spyro takes place in a world in which dragons live free as they rule. But an evil orc named Gnasty Gnorc is in control and created every dragon’s statue but not Spyro. It’s the job of Spyro to release the dragon to bring an end to Gnasty Gnorc. There are six main worlds to explore in Spyro, and each has around 5-6 levels. Each level is created in a different way, and the set-up of Spyro is superb.
Graphics: 8/10
Sound/Music: 7/10
Story/Setting: 6/10
Controls and Gameplay:
The controls of Spyro are pretty easy to use. The pads control movement. The square button allows Spyro to charge while the x button allows Spyro to jump, and it’s a triangle that controls view while the circular button controls your breath. The game, as previously mentioned, has six worlds to explore: Artisans Homeworld, Peace Keepers, Magic Crafters, Beastkeeper’s, Dreamweavers, and then Gnasty Gnorc’s World. Each of the worlds has approximately four levels. Each level is full of different enemies and a variety of difficulties. There are many methods to take on the enemies. Some enemies have to be defeated in different ways. Some bosses are in Spyro; however, most of them are non-necessary. Spyro’s gameplay Spyro may become repetitive occasionally as well as the setting can appear a bit devoid and lonely. There aren’t any characters other than Spyro. Additionally, the camera angles used within the game are incredibly frustrating. The action is rapid, but the camera does well in focussing on Spyro.
Controls: 7/10
Gameplay: 8/10
Does this game merit buy? Final Thoughts:
Spyro The Dragon is aged quite well. The game came out in 1998. However, its simple gameplay and challenging levels are delightful. The game is a simple plot, yet its gameplay is very engaging. Its camera angle is the biggest problem, and it may be repetitive when you’re the only protagonist; however, the overall game is still essential for all PlayStation players as well as hardcore and casual players. Overall, I rate the game an 8/10 and would highly recommend it.
Graphics: 8/10
Sound/Music: 7/10
Story/Setting: 6/10
Controls: 7/10
Gameplay: 8/10
Overall: 7/10
