A Hat in Time

 PlayStation 4
User Score
8.1

Generally favorable reviews- based on 121 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 93 out of 121
  2. Mixed: 14 out of 121
  3. Negative: 14 out of 121
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  1. HaloFever
    Aug 10, 2023
    7
    I hate to give any brilliant labor of love a score that is less than prefect, but this kind of retro love letter can only be so good. For what it is, “A Hat in Time” is perfect.

    The era that “A Hat in Time” harkens back to is a short one. This is a PS1, N64, Sega Saturn style game with all the bright colors and polygon shading that I barely remember. At the time, I was a PC gamer and my    I hate to give any brilliant labor of love a score that is less than prefect, but this kind of retro love letter can only be so good. For what it is, “A Hat in Time” is perfect.

    The era that “A Hat in Time” harkens back to is a short one. This is a PS1, N64, Sega Saturn style game with all the bright colors and polygon shading that I barely remember. At the time, I was a PC gamer and my exposure to N64 was limited to playing a Rom of Mario 64 on my PC running 3dfx Voodoo cards in SLI mode. An advantage of an emulator is that you can save your state and thus enjoy unlimited lives. “A Hat in Time” basically does the same, with checkpoints that don’t force you to replay an entire level.

    So much of this game is just so clever, it would have been a Game of the Year in 1996. Like Mario and his different suits, the Hat girl can don different hats for different abilities. Map elements liven up gameplay. Maybe it’s my decades of experience but enemies are not very threatening. The goal here seems to be more about exploring than fighting. The boss battles are fine. I’ve never been a big fan of boss battles.

    The level design is also clever in a retro way. Eschewing the power of modern gaming hardware, levels are tight, as if they had to run on N64. This makes for clever use of space and fewer cookie cutter, cut and paste elements. Back in the 1990s, I would have plumbed the levels for all the secrets. Characters are similarly colorful and distinct in their design. This kind of hand made indie darling is a refreshing change from games that come off the assembly line.

    All in all, maybe I’m too old for this game. Maybe I’m not old enough. I get what this game is doing, but I’m not popping with enjoyment like I would have a few decades ago. Still, I’m glad this game exists and I recommend it for anyone who isn’t wowed by the generic AAA open world looter shooter.

    Full disclosure: I downloaded this game from the PS+ Extra collection.    … Expand
  2. HonestReviews66
    Jun 26, 2023
    0
    Personally, I didn't like it, even though I really wanted to. As someone who bought a Nintendo 64 on release day in 1996, I was drooling at the prospect of a game that was a throwback to the cartoony-platformers of the mid-90's, especially as this is a genre that seems to have died, at least in its purest form. However, the game doesn't seem to understand what made Mario 64 (for example)Personally, I didn't like it, even though I really wanted to. As someone who bought a Nintendo 64 on release day in 1996, I was drooling at the prospect of a game that was a throwback to the cartoony-platformers of the mid-90's, especially as this is a genre that seems to have died, at least in its purest form. However, the game doesn't seem to understand what made Mario 64 (for example) so great. Just let me explore levels and collect things at my own pace, in any order I want to (within each level) and stop making it into a deep, story-based linear adventure. Each level is supposed to be a sandbox to play in, but I felt pushed to do exactly what the game wanted me to in order to collect the exact item it wanted me to. Coupled with terrible controls and a lousy camera, I gave up in the stupid birds on a train mission. This was also because I just couldn't be bothered stealthing around the train, with being seen leading to an instant game-over state. This isn't Metal Gear Solid!

    A wasted opportunity. This developer has no idea what made the N64 such a great console and needs to play a few games (Mario 64, Banjo-Kazooie) to educate himself. The free Astro game on PS5 is a trillion miles better. Yes, it had a bigger budget. But it's free!    … Expand
  3. Rallianto_Rex
    Jun 22, 2023
    3
    The camera controls makes it unplayable.
    I've read online the controls for mouse & keyboard gives you free camera movement, but when playing with controller (I play on PS4/PS5), for some reason, you cannot move the camera up and down. You can literally not look down, so you have to jump into the unknown and die, to discover what is there. I read many people say the same thing so they skip    The camera controls makes it unplayable.
    I've read online the controls for mouse & keyboard gives you free camera movement, but when playing with controller (I play on PS4/PS5), for some reason, you cannot move the camera up and down. You can literally not look down, so you have to jump into the unknown and die, to discover what is there. I read many people say the same thing so they skip on the controller option, but it's not an option for me on PS :(
    I don't understand why they don't added an option to have free camera movement when playing with controller, seems really dump.
    At least they added a 60fps mode - that's really good - but what good is 60fps if you can't orientate yourself?
    Unplayable when you cant see where you are going    … Expand
  4. Geopall100
    May 15, 2023
    10
    Prepare to be swept away on a magical journey filled with charm, nostalgia, and pure joy. A Hat in Time is an absolute gem that captures the essence of classic 3D platformers while infusing it with its unique, whimsical style. From the moment I dove into this enchanting world, I was hooked, and it never let go.

    One of the standout features of A Hat in Time is its incredible attention to    Prepare to be swept away on a magical journey filled with charm, nostalgia, and pure joy. A Hat in Time is an absolute gem that captures the essence of classic 3D platformers while infusing it with its unique, whimsical style. From the moment I dove into this enchanting world, I was hooked, and it never let go.

    One of the standout features of A Hat in Time is its incredible attention to detail. The art direction is simply breathtaking, with vibrant colors, imaginative level designs, and delightful character animations. Each environment feels alive and brimming with personality, inviting players to explore every nook and cranny. The game's visual style strikes a perfect balance between retro-inspired visuals and modern-day polish, making it a treat for both old-school gamers and newcomers alike.

    But it's not just the visuals that shine in A Hat in Time; the gameplay is equally exceptional. As Hat Kid, the plucky protagonist, you'll embark on a quest to collect time pieces scattered across a variety of imaginative worlds. The platforming mechanics are tight, responsive, and immensely satisfying. Whether you're bouncing off walls, swinging from hooks, or sprinting across precarious ledges, every jump and dash feels perfectly tuned. The level design is a masterclass in balancing challenge and fun, with clever puzzles, thrilling chase sequences, and memorable boss battles that will keep you on your toes.

    What truly sets A Hat in Time apart, however, is its infectious sense of humor and heartwarming storytelling. The game's writing is clever, witty, and filled with memorable characters. From the sassy Moustache Girl to the mischievous Mafia members, each interaction is a joy to experience. The dialogue and voice acting are top-notch, adding another layer of immersion to an already captivating adventure. I found myself laughing out loud and smiling from ear to ear throughout my entire playthrough.

    Furthermore, A Hat in Time doesn't shy away from offering a multitude of customization options. Hat Kid's vast wardrobe allows you to dress up in a variety of adorable hats and stylish outfits, each with their own unique abilities. The freedom to mix and match not only adds a layer of personalization but also encourages exploration to find all the hidden collectibles and secrets.

    Lastly, the developers' commitment to post-launch support is commendable. They have continuously provided updates, bug fixes, and even additional content, ensuring that the game stays fresh and engaging long after its initial release. It's a testament to their dedication and passion for their creation.

    In conclusion, A Hat in Time is an absolute triumph, delivering an exceptional platforming experience that tugs at your heartstrings. It's a love letter to the golden era of 3D platformers, wrapped in a whimsical package that exudes charm and joy. Whether you're a fan of the genre or simply looking for a delightful gaming experience, A Hat in Time is an absolute must-play. Prepare to embark on an unforgettable adventure that will leave you grinning from ear to ear.    … Expand
  5. meli00
    Sep 6, 2022
    8
    this is one of the best platformer games i've played! and the graphics cute as heck
  6. Schueli
    Aug 10, 2022
    7
    Bei der Presse kam es nicht ganz so gut weg. Ein 3D-Jump'n'Run der alten Schmiede. Ähnlich Super Mario 64 und Banjo Kazooie. Ich fand es ganz spaßig. Die Welten bis auf paar Ausnahmen fand ich jetzt aber auch ausbaufähig. Teils zu unübersichtlich und unausgereift. Aber für Zwischendurch passt es, wenn man solche Art Spiele mag so oder so.
  7. zach_grech
    May 3, 2022
    7
    The levels in this game are all unique. Likeable characters and excellent bosses. Platforming good for the majority of the game, although some sections are hit or miss. The lack of a true 4th level is a disappointment for me as well.
  8. VegeST
    Apr 10, 2022
    10
    I can say only one thing - memes can be the best commercial. Thx SMUG Hat Kid that I bought A Hat In Time, now I'm waiting for the sequel.
  9. JHerting
    Mar 23, 2022
    8
    One of those indie games proving yet again money doesn't make a good game. Creative and in touch individuals do. A Hat In Time is a 3D Platformer accessible for every age. Smooth controls, a charming story, great music and a bit of adult humor hidden in between heavily overshadow the mediocre graphics. If you are looking for a chill adventure you can play for around 15-20 hours you found it.
  10. LeoTRM
    Feb 26, 2022
    10
    This game for me was absolute perfection! U have played this fantastic game for so long and I have so much of the currency!
  11. OscarAdcock
    Jan 25, 2022
    8
    If you like 3D platformers, this is a must have. It didn't initially appeal to me at first but this game has some really fun controls and amazing game design. I loved all of the different enviroments, you can feel the love and time that went into making this game. Good Platinum aswell, has a decent amount of challege but is not too time consuming.
  12. frederik1478
    Dec 30, 2021
    10
    best platformers of PS4 generation, i truly love the art style the color in all the little details In game den truly feel the love in this one, and I really love the movement mechanics just how far you can throw yourself and how precisely you can move it is never frustrating moving the character,
    It begins talking at the heart springs in the last part and I will truly love to play this    best platformers of PS4 generation, i truly love the art style the color in all the little details In game den truly feel the love in this one, and I really love the movement mechanics just how far you can throw yourself and how precisely you can move it is never frustrating moving the character,
    It begins talking at the heart springs in the last part and I will truly love to play this game again this is my second time and I love it still    … Expand
  13. Mohamadtaha
    Aug 9, 2021
    10
    Very nice game
    I love this game so Match the gamplay is very smooth and funny
  14. SebbyPlaysMusic
    Mar 10, 2021
    9
    Seeing as this game typically goes for half the price of a full release, there only being 4 main levels (and a home area) works out pretty well, as every area is expansive and differentiates itself really well. The game-play feels smooth the vast majority of the time, and I had a lot of fun, and a good few laughs. The levels are reminiscent of 3D Mario titles like Sunshine and Galaxy, withSeeing as this game typically goes for half the price of a full release, there only being 4 main levels (and a home area) works out pretty well, as every area is expansive and differentiates itself really well. The game-play feels smooth the vast majority of the time, and I had a lot of fun, and a good few laughs. The levels are reminiscent of 3D Mario titles like Sunshine and Galaxy, with nods to other games on occasion, but overall this definitely has its own flavor and identity. Definitely a worthy experience for fans of platformer / adventure games.… Expand
  15. Ruzaky
    Aug 6, 2020
    8
    Great old school platformer. Graphics not the best tho. Anyway very fun game from start to finish. Some unique thing here and there. I hope they make sequel some day and it will be better ^^
  16. sketch98
    Jul 12, 2020
    10
    I have never liked any 3D platformer before this one. A lot of 3D platformers rely on 3D visuals to make up for fewer actions-per-minute than 2D platformers. This one, however, always kept me pressing buttons and getting somewhere. The environments are charming and varied.
    The only criticism I have is that slopes and walls occasionally respond to collision inconsistently and cause you to    I have never liked any 3D platformer before this one. A lot of 3D platformers rely on 3D visuals to make up for fewer actions-per-minute than 2D platformers. This one, however, always kept me pressing buttons and getting somewhere. The environments are charming and varied.
    The only criticism I have is that slopes and walls occasionally respond to collision inconsistently and cause you to make a mistake.    … Expand
  17. PlatypusMage
    Jun 26, 2020
    9
    Platforming goodness galore! Fantastic levels and art design pair perfectly with lovable, memorable characters and a gorgeous soundtrack. The ONLY reason I'm not giving it a solid 10 is because, for whatever reason, the PS4 version lacks the DLC of the PC version. Ah well, I'll get that version eventually. For now, this is a wonderful game with a lot of heart that I'd gladly recommend toPlatforming goodness galore! Fantastic levels and art design pair perfectly with lovable, memorable characters and a gorgeous soundtrack. The ONLY reason I'm not giving it a solid 10 is because, for whatever reason, the PS4 version lacks the DLC of the PC version. Ah well, I'll get that version eventually. For now, this is a wonderful game with a lot of heart that I'd gladly recommend to anyone who loves platformers (ESPECIALLY 3D Mario fans!).… Expand
  18. AIKLU
    Jun 22, 2020
    10
    Its really fun game . The gameplay is so good I really love the gameplay and the levels design is great with a funny story and characters.
  19. Badilsquare
    May 31, 2020
    4
    This game could be good, but the basic platforming feel like an outdated platform game, camera movement is a mess. I got alot of frustation because the character doesn't move the way it suppose to. I got stuck on a level because she can't running on wall somehow and thats it i uninstall it immediately.
  20. ThePSButton
    May 6, 2020
    7
    A Hat in Time cayó del cielo en un momento en el que el hambre de plataformas era basta. Con una jugabilidad que acaricia la perfección, y una dirección artística preciosa y entrañable, la obra ofrece una aventura satisfactoria que entrega un amor muy bonito. ¿Qué le duele? Irónicamente la diferencia que hay de mundo a mundo da en general un paquete que se siente “desordenado” y pocoA Hat in Time cayó del cielo en un momento en el que el hambre de plataformas era basta. Con una jugabilidad que acaricia la perfección, y una dirección artística preciosa y entrañable, la obra ofrece una aventura satisfactoria que entrega un amor muy bonito. ¿Qué le duele? Irónicamente la diferencia que hay de mundo a mundo da en general un paquete que se siente “desordenado” y poco estructurado; el último mundo “abierto” me pareció el más débil del paquete. De igual manera, el contenido aquí queda a deber en cantidad y técnicamente es muy pobre en muchas ocasiones. Al final, el título brilla por tener un encanto que no te encuentras tan fácilmente y por su jugabilidad más que competente. A Hat in Time es una experiencia cálida y muy colorida.… Expand
  21. SirSoil
    Feb 28, 2020
    10
    A Hat In Time is the best platfromer ever made, with all its unique levels and charm. The entire game revolves on amazing humor and amazing writing, even a simple story with deep meanings can pop up sometimes. All the levels in the game are amazing none are bad and none are boring, with the inclusion of FANTASTIC BOSSES is always appreciated. The collective nature of this game is top notchA Hat In Time is the best platfromer ever made, with all its unique levels and charm. The entire game revolves on amazing humor and amazing writing, even a simple story with deep meanings can pop up sometimes. All the levels in the game are amazing none are bad and none are boring, with the inclusion of FANTASTIC BOSSES is always appreciated. The collective nature of this game is top notch it’s so satisfying, while also listening to gamings top 10 amazing soundtracks! Nothing negative could be said about this game it’s charm heavy with so much extras like cute costumes power ups and excellent extra levels. A Hat In Time is a Masterpiece done right for a 3D platfromer, and a must have for every gamer even the ones who don’t like 3D Platfromers, it’s that damn good. (A Masterpiece 5/5) You Must Play It!… Expand
  22. ClutterBrain
    Jan 28, 2020
    6
    Decent 3D platformer but a far cry from many of the perfect reviews it's gotten. The game ran well with very little bugs or issues.
  23. B-Bog
    Jan 24, 2020
    5
    For a fan-made game, it's good, but if you compare it to platformers from big studios, it really doesn't hold a candle to them. The fact that some people liken this to a game like Super Mario Odyssey is actually mind-boggling to me. There are layers upon layers of refinement and polish in the latter that are sorely missing here. This game will actually make you appreciate something likeFor a fan-made game, it's good, but if you compare it to platformers from big studios, it really doesn't hold a candle to them. The fact that some people liken this to a game like Super Mario Odyssey is actually mind-boggling to me. There are layers upon layers of refinement and polish in the latter that are sorely missing here. This game will actually make you appreciate something like Odyssey way more, because it shows you things that you really never thought about and absolutely take for granted there, e.g. the spacing of your jumps. A game like Odyssey manages to let every level feel very organic and, thanks to Mario's massive move-set, you have a lot of flexibility in how you want to approach challenges. Hat's design in comparison seems really cookie-cutter, and despite the fact that the protagonist really only has a jump, a double-jump, and a dash to get around, how the platforms are set up feels really weird a lot of time. Like a lot of the jumps are just a liiiittle too far for the double-jump, but the dash will make you completely over-shoot your target; or the next platform is a little too high for a regular jump, so you have to use the double-jump, but that feels completely over-blown. You would think that optimizing the platforming would actually be quite easy with such a limited move-set, but apparently, it isn't.

    There's a general sense of jankiness about the game, for example, oftentimes it's really hard to tell where you even are in relation to the structures while in mid-air or where your character is going to land, which isn't exactly made easier by a sub-par camera. There's also a bug where if you invert the camera controls, the game switches it back to normal every time you die or quit and re-enter the game. Apparently, nobody bothered to patch this out in the 2+ years this game has been out.

    The theming of the worlds is very creative and original and there's a lot of variety in that regard. This is where AHIT shines: With its themes, charm, wit, humour and characters (though it tries a little too hard to be funny sometimes, I have to say). The music is also pretty good and accompanies the theming of the levels really well. The graphics aren't really all that spectacular, I don't know why some people gush over them here.

    I'm also not a fan of gaining new moves and abilities through badges and hats; I find the switching around to be quite annoying. I mean, I can understand it for the more exotic stuff, but for a ground-pound?? Come on.

    More frequent checkpoints would be welcome instead of having to play large sections all over again because you got stuck on ONE jump.

    It also would've been nice to have a level-map accessible SOMEWHERE, because due to the unintuitive level-design, it might not really be clear where you need to go at all times in the more non-linear levels.

    So, in conclusion, as I said, this is good as a fan-made nostalgia game, and you should absolutely treat it as such. Don't get your hopes up and expect a AAA platformer, because you're going to be sorely disappointed. The game is really charming but the moment-to-moment gameplay and the level-design just aren't that strong. 30€ is just way too much for this game, half that would probably be a fair price IMO. So I would advise you to get this on sale if you absolutely want to play it, or just get Rayman Legends for 20€ instead if you're looking for an amazing platformer (albeit a 2D one).    … Expand
  24. IReviewGames101
    Aug 30, 2019
    10
    This game is amazing and really reminds me of games like super Mario 64. Really underrated and deserves more popularity.
  25. MINIMA029
    Aug 6, 2019
    10
    That's what you call a "hidden gem"

    Hope to see more 3d platformers like this
  26. bulger_paul
    Aug 4, 2019
    10
    A Hat in Time is the good kind of nostalgia, learning (mostly) all of the right lessons from the vast library of 3D platformer games it draws inspiration from, and leaves behind (mostly) what made a lot of those games frustrating and finicky. A Hat in Time is a little finicky, but I can only distinctly remember maybe 3 occasions where I got killed because I was struggling with the controlsA Hat in Time is the good kind of nostalgia, learning (mostly) all of the right lessons from the vast library of 3D platformer games it draws inspiration from, and leaves behind (mostly) what made a lot of those games frustrating and finicky. A Hat in Time is a little finicky, but I can only distinctly remember maybe 3 occasions where I got killed because I was struggling with the controls more than the game itself, so while they may not be as precise as the ontrols in say, Super Mario Odyssey, which from a team that’s been at this for three decades and with infinitely more funding, this is an amazing first attempt and I sincerely hope this game gets dozens of sequels. I know this game isn’t necessarily “perfect,” it’s controls are slightly imprecise, it’s too short, it could use more worlds, sometimes it’s unclear the thing you’re supposed to do next so you can open the path forward, the lack of something informing you how many collectibles left in an area is annoying, etc, but I can’t remember the last time I was playing a game that made me this happy. It has so many ideas, I never knew what to expect next, its worlds are so original, so any faults it does have are thoroughly outshined. been… Expand
  27. curzon_dax
    May 16, 2019
    9
    While it is clearly inspired by the Nintendo Mario games (of the 3D type) it is a pretty good game. What it does better than Nintendo is give a little better character to ..characters speaking English.
  28. leetl1
    Mar 4, 2019
    9
    Overall, A Hat in Time is a great experience. The levels are fun, it has plenty of charming and memorable characters and you can solve a train mystery. What's not to love? Of course, the game isn't perfect, and it came at a bad time being released near Mario Odyssey, which spoiled the critics with it's greatness, but i'd still recommend this game to 3D platforming junkies. It's better thanOverall, A Hat in Time is a great experience. The levels are fun, it has plenty of charming and memorable characters and you can solve a train mystery. What's not to love? Of course, the game isn't perfect, and it came at a bad time being released near Mario Odyssey, which spoiled the critics with it's greatness, but i'd still recommend this game to 3D platforming junkies. It's better than Yooka Laylee for sure.… Expand
  29. Wander22
    Feb 17, 2019
    8
    Gameplay/Mechanics: 8.5
    Sound/Music: 8
    Graphics/Art: 7.5
    Story/Atmosphere: 8
    OVERALL: 8/10
  30. Jordanvds
    May 31, 2018
    8
    A hat in time is a great 3D-platformer with a set of good characters, great platforming movement, and fantastic map design. This game also has a lot of similarities with Mario sunshine and some other great platformers. I had a few glitches throughout my play-trough, but my only real complaint about this game is that you could play it out in like a day or 2, I just wish it would've been aA hat in time is a great 3D-platformer with a set of good characters, great platforming movement, and fantastic map design. This game also has a lot of similarities with Mario sunshine and some other great platformers. I had a few glitches throughout my play-trough, but my only real complaint about this game is that you could play it out in like a day or 2, I just wish it would've been a bit longer. The gameplay in this game is very smooth, Hat-girl is just very fun to play and move around with. A hat in time has a good looking art style as well. I would recommend this game to anyone who loves 3D-platformers.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

69
#69 Best PS4 Game of 2017
76
#76 Most Discussed PS4 Game of 2017

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
79

Generally favorable reviews - based on 17 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 14 out of 17
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 17
  3. Negative: 0 out of 17
  1. PSX Extreme
    Mar 13, 2018
    90
    A Hat in Time is just plain fun. It reminded me of a mixture of Mario 64 and Spryo the Dragon. It’s humorous and charming. It has a bunch of really memorable characters and diverse worlds that are very distinct. The only downsides might be a short run time and some minor graphical issues but it was never enough to ruin my experience.
    Read full review
  2. Playstation Official Magazine UK
    Feb 22, 2018
    70
    A twitchy camera inspires ire, but the game manages the neat trick of doffing its cap to Nintendo's N64 classics, while still maintaining its own identity, impresses with its charm and variety. [Feb 2018, p.94]
  3. GamePro Germany
    Jan 29, 2018
    86
    Sugar sweet, sophisticated 3D platformer, close the greats of the genre, with lots of creativity and great level design.
    Read full review
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