Remasters of all shapes and sizes are commonplace in the current video game landscape, and frankly, some deserve the return to the limelight more than others. Argonaut Games, itself revived after a long hiatus, is bringing back one of its best-loved titles that we think more than earns its right for a comeback. Croc: Legend of the Gobbos is a cult favourite PS1 platformer from a time when making 3D games was still new, and while in some ways it shows its age, it’s difficult to not be charmed by this remastered classic.

Hopping into this game in 2025 is a nostalgic overload for anyone with fond memories of Croc; the first thing you see is the gobbos inflating the Argonaut Games logo, playing out on a big CRT television. Especially when you hear the title theme on the main menu, it all comes flooding back, and what’s so lovely about this remaster is just how faithful to the original experience it is; you can really tell this is essentially the same game with the same code, only with some mod-cons and a fresh coat of paint.

Loading is instantaneous as you hop into the game proper, which retains the colourful, stylised look of the original with clear improvements, especially to character models. Several graphical options allow you to apply various filters and visual tweaks, which are appreciated, though we stuck to the remaster’s default look because it’s so crisp.

As for how it plays, you can move Croc with either his classic tank controls on the d-pad, or opt for a much smoother, modern experience with full analog control on the left stick. You can use either of these at all times, and what’s interesting is that, because the game was originally designed around the d-pad’s tank controls, there are some scenarios where that’s actually the better option. Smooth analog control is going to feel best for most players, though, and it’s been implemented well, allowing you to really speed through levels in a way you can’t with the old scheme.

The game is very simplistic by today’s standards, with short levels, enemies posing little threat, and fairly tame obstacles. Easy though it may be, especially using the modern controls, this is still an old school experience, meaning limited lives and starting a level over if you do hit Game Over. Newcomers and veteran fans alike might breeze through, but again, the game’s inherent charm will mean you’re smiling while it happens.

There are six gobbos to find in each level, as well as special coloured crystals that open a bonus door near a stage’s exit. The level structure is quite unique; they’re all segmented by numerous doorways, with some simple puzzles requiring you to find something in one room and return to another. It’s broadly a very linear game, but there are some examples of doubling back on yourself or finding well-hidden secrets that show some novel ideas for the time.

Croc himself has a solid move set, with a generous jump, a butt-slam to open boxes, a 180-degree turn, and a tail spin attack, not to mention the ability to climb certain surfaces, swing on monkey bars, and swim underwater. The game makes regular use of most of these, giving the platforming a good pace.

Also helping to keep things fresh is different level themes for each island, which introduce new enemies and obstacles to contend with. A highlight of Croc for many is the characterful boss fights, which are all pretty straightforward to defeat but have fun designs, like a boxing ladybird or a large fish with a trident.

Overall, the game itself has lots of cutesy personality, and looks and plays better than ever with this remaster’s additions. Its simplicity might leave some a little cold, but we found it to be refreshing and relaxing.

Elevating the package is the Crocipedia, a surprisingly large museum section with lots to see and do. The soundtrack, work-in-progress music, old photos, design documentation, character model sheets and animation tests, and lots of talking head interviews with current and former staff is all here. For fans of the original, or just fans of gaming history, there’s so much to chew on here, and it really adds value to the remaster.