Astros Playroom is pre-installed on every PlayStation 5. So when you start it for the first time, you can assume that it is a tutorial that will introduce you to the functions of the system. This assumption is not correct. Yes, the game makes a great showpiece for the PS5’s DualSense controller, which applies its haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and motion detection technology to a variety of inventive situations. Astro’s Playroom is much more than a tutorial, however. It’s a happy and polished platformer who ushers in a new generation of PlayStation hardware with a big smile.
Astro is a cute little robot that walks, hops and flies over colorful worlds – each based on different components of the PS5. You splash around in the cooling unit, fly through the SSD and explore the overall GPU structure. As with other mascot platformer, you’ll have to collect things on the go, some of which are floating in sight while others require little effort. In terms of basic structure and mechanics, Astro’s playroom isn’t surprising. it adheres closely to a comfortable formula. That familiarity doesn’t detract from the experience, however, as the DualSense controller brings novelties in a fun and surprising way.
Every function and function of the controller is brought into the spotlight a little. Piercing and distinct rumble effects steal the show, from the tiny sensation of Astro’s steps to thunderous moments like an Indiana Jones-style bouldering hunt. The triggers provide resistance when charging your jumps in a frog suit or pulling the levers on a toy machine. Moving your finger across the touchpad gives you control over your movement while rolling around in a ball. The list goes on, and while some mechanics feel like gimmicks (steering with motion controls will never be fun), most of them are cool. In addition, they make a significant difference in your connection to action and provide an amazing sense of touch to the world.
But as I said, Astro’s Playroom isn’t just a shallow excuse to showcase DualSense. Even without the technology behind it, it’s a fun platformer with a satisfying mix of variety and charm, and all of the levels stand out in a unique way. Some have an open playground feel with you looking for hidden areas and collectibles around every corner. An easy battle against a small selection of enemies will keep you from having a completely free hand, but these levels are more about exploration than aggression. I enjoyed hunting the treasure and interacting with the environment, although everything is accessible and obvious enough that I hesitate to call it “enigma”.
Other stages are linear platform challenges that use Astro’s laser-guided hover jump. These parts are pretty forgiving too, with generous control points and obstacles that offer just enough resistance to make you pause for a moment, but not so much that you get stuck. You can also find various suits and vehicles in sections where you climb walls or navigate space. These are the parts that feel most playful and unreliable, but still, they’re rarely long enough to cause real frustration. Plus, it’s hard to get too mad with the game’s infectiously upbeat soundtrack playing in the background.
Although Astro’s playroom is relatively simple, it kept me entertained for around five hours with its numerous challenges and fun Easter eggs. As Astro’s foray into the bowels of the PS5, you’ll come across all sorts of PlayStation references and memorabilia. From seeing bot versions of legendary characters (like Kratos and Solid Snake) to collecting old peripherals and consoles, the journey is full of “I know it!” Lightning bolts that underline the carefree and responsive gameplay.
At best, Astro’s Playroom recaptures the magic of my favorite Lego video games – except that the license issued is the PlayStation brand instead of Star Wars or Marvel. The cameos are plentiful and amusing, with franchises going beyond the first-party catalog and some surprisingly deep cuts that made me very old. But in the midst of all this story, Astro feels like a delightfully fresh face. I’m happy to see the character break out of the confines of VR and reach a wider audience. Astros Playroom may not be the deepest or most ambitious game on PS5, but its humor and playfulness are just lovely.