When it comes to remastering those classic early 3D games from the ‘90s, I admit I’ve got my own set of standards. It’s a tough thing to nail—the balance between revamping a game’s visuals and simply enhancing its resolution. Tossing new textures onto original models can sometimes create a jarring experience, while redesigning everything might strip away the charm that made the original so memorable. Worst-case scenario, you might even end up with a version that’s a step back from what we had. I mention all this not because I’m difficult to please (though I might be), but to emphasize just how rare it is to find a remaster that gets it right.
Argonaut has pulled off a remarkable feat with their remaster of Croc: Legend of the Gobbos, embodying precisely what a remaster from this era should look like.
Originally launched in 1997 on platforms like PlayStation, Saturn, and PC, Croc was a massive hit for Argonaut, especially after their split from Nintendo. If we’re being honest, though, the original hasn’t aged all that beautifully. Its tank-like controls and the tiny zones separated by significant loading screens make it a perfect candidate for some modern TLC.
The game itself is a straightforward 3D platformer of its time. As Croc, you dash, leap, and spin your way through linear stages, rescuing captured Gobbos that unlock secret levels. The gameplay is simple; Croc’s attack options consist of a ground pound and a tail spin, with enemies—save for the bosses—falling in a single hit. Croc maintains his health by gathering crystals, and if he takes a hit, they scatter just like rings in Sonic the Hedgehog. Occasionally, you’ll need to double back with a key to unlock areas, but mostly, the paths are linear. Clear a stage by ringing a gong, and if you’ve snagged all the special colored crystals, you can access a secret room to rescue another Gobbo.
Fire up the remaster, and the first thing you’ll notice is how much smoother Croc is to control. You can stick with the original d-pad tank controls if you like, but switching over to the left analog stick gives it that modern 3D platformer feel. This change alone revitalizes the game far beyond what I expected, enhancing the experience without altering its core simplicity.
Argonaut’s visual revamp deserves particular praise. Every aspect of the environment, right down to individual enemies and objects, has been reconstructed with fidelity to the original’s style. Croc retains that retro charm, yet thanks to a higher polygon count, he looks smoother without losing his classic appeal. This meticulous approach extends to the level geometry itself—considerably polished yet familiar. To truly appreciate the improvements, you can toggle between the old and new visuals at the press of a button.
Textures have been carefully redone, preserving the original look while offering a filtered version for those who want a hybrid experience. The lighting overhaul—with real-time shadows and ambient occlusion—replaces the old vertex lighting system, although you can switch back if nostalgia hits. There are minor grievances: sometimes the lighting tweaks slightly alter the moody vibe of certain interiors, leaving occasional artifacts. Fortunately, every update can be toggled during gameplay. The game runs smoothly on the Nintendo Switch at full resolution and 60 FPS, though some cutscenes display lower frame rates.
Graphical options aren’t limited to a simple toggle between old and new. You’ve got the freedom to mix and match elements—geometry, textures, lighting, and filters—to create the visual experience that suits you.
Beyond revisiting the game itself, there’s a treasure trove of historical content and interviews offering insights into Croc’s development, including cut content. The interviews feature both the original creators and contemporary voices, enriching your understanding of the game’s legacy. And if audio is your thing, you can enjoy rearranged songs alongside the untouched original soundtrack.
Argonaut’s remaster of Croc is a masterclass in how to modernize a beloved classic while honoring its roots. Even if you’re sticking to the old graphics with a CRT filter, the game plays better than ever, with controls that breathe new life into it. The Switch version, in particular, delivers outstanding image quality and performance without compromise. Croc remains the simple platformer it always was, yet this package is crafted with such reverence that longtime fans and newcomers alike will find something to appreciate. Whether you’re a Croc devotee or a curious newcomer, this remaster is hard not to recommend.
