Crash Bandicoot: The Wrath of Cortex is a platformer game released in 2001 for the PlayStation 2. It was developed by Traveller’s Tales and marks the first game in the Crash Bandicoot series not developed by Naughty Dog. The game continues the story of Crash and his sister Coco as they face off against their nemesis, Dr. Neo Cortex, who has created a powerful new weapon: Crunch Bandicoot, a genetically enhanced bandicoot with superhuman abilities.
The game’s plot revolves around Cortex teaming up with Uka Uka, the evil mask, to unleash the power of the Elementals, four destructive masks representing earth, water, fire, and air. Crash and Coco must gather crystals to contain the Elementals and defeat Crunch.
Gameplay retains the classic platforming style of the series, with linear levels full of enemies, traps, and collectibles like Wumpa Fruit, gems, and relics. It introduces new vehicles, elemental-themed levels, and power-ups for Crash, including abilities like double-jumping and fruit bazookas. The game features visually enhanced graphics compared to its predecessors and a diverse soundtrack.
While The Wrath of Cortex received mixed reviews, it is remembered for its nostalgia, challenging levels, and the introduction of Crunch, who later became a recurring character in the franchise.