Metascore
70

Mixed or average reviews - based on 16 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 16
  2. Negative: 0 out of 16
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  1. Better on the Box. Sharper, fuller, and more variable detail, excellent sound, and precise controls are all contained herein, along with the patented Crash game play that makes this such a fan favorite.
  2. 84
    What it lacks in general innovation is quickly outshines by familiar, addictive, and constantly fun gameplay.
  3. Play Magazine
    80
    They've caressed the music to great effect, made the bosses a bit more challenging, [and] adhered to a massive replayability standard that would drive any developer to drink. [Apr 2002, p.49]
  4. You'll feel like 'Mr. No Depth Perception' from Saturday Night Live, as you struggle to tell how close to certain objects Crash is.
  5. Game Informer
    73
    Every little morsel of platforming goodness in The Wrath of Cortex has already been done to death on the Playstation. [May 2002, p.87]
  6. If you are looking for an innovative and original experience that does justice to the series you’ll have to look elsewhere.
  7. Official Xbox Magazine
    71
    This is a game for those who want what Crash has always had to offer – good graphics, jump-and-spin gameplay, and tons of collectible items. Nothing more, nothing less. [Apr 2002, p.74]
  8. It feels like the originality that the franchise once had has run a little stale.
  9. There's not enough meat on this Bandicoot to feed you for more than a week for the casual gamer or a weekend for the hardcore fan.
  10. 70
    A fun game that’s worth getting for the kids in the house. I would’ve liked to see some multiplayer options thrown in.
  11. 67
    A fun game for the most part...However, it fails in some areas, like proper game balance and correct use of surround sound.
  12. A slightly updated version of the orange marsupial's 1998 debut on the PlayStation.
  13. Xbox Nation Magazine
    60
    If there's a mediocre idea to be had, chances are Crash has burgled it. [Summer 2002, p.91]
  14. 60
    Love it or hate it, Wrath of Cortex Xbox is more of more of the same.
  15. We never thought we’d reach a day where we would say this but, after playing Crash Bandicoot, we’re actually looking forward to "Rayman 3."
  16. Electronic Gaming Monthly
    50
    Save for a few additions to WOC, like some cool hamster-ball levels, it's almost identical to its predecessors. [May 2002, p.113]

Awards & Rankings

88
37
#37 Most Discussed Xbox Game of 2002
11
#11 Most Shared Xbox Game of 2002
User Score
7.6

Generally favorable reviews- based on 53 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 37 out of 53
  2. Negative: 9 out of 53
  1. Jan 6, 2020
    10
    It's the Ultimate Crash Bandicoot 4 edition, better than the ps2/gcn edition, better graphics and loading times
  2. Dec 6, 2018
    8
    honestly a good game i dont understand the hate sure its not as great as the first 3 game but still a good game solid 8/10
  3. Apr 6, 2023
    10
    Best crash game ever, so much fun, one of my favorite games oat. .