Croc - 3D Platformer Hidden Gems

'Croc: Legend of the Gobbos'
Released 1997

PS1 PC SAT

Developer: Argonaut Software

Croc: Legend of the Gobbos is the first in a two game series of 3D platformers released during 5th generation of consoles in the 90's. Back when it first came out Cros was well semi-received by gamer's and eventually sold over 4 million units world wide, but shortly after this little guy was swept under dusty rugs. Many people actually haven't heard of Croc even though he has 3 games total(including the one on the Gameboy color). This title had a lot going for it, some argue the controls feel far too robotic and mechanical compared to the smooth fluid controls of Crash Bandicoot and Spyro for the PS1. Once you get used to Croc's controls they are actually quite precise. Its like the developers took a game that was a side scroller and shifted it into 3D, all the mechanics are carried over, there are literally so many floating platforms in the game. 

Swimming in the same pool as Crash Bandicoot and Spyro the Dragon, Croc was pushed under.

Croc has a simple tail whip to take out enemies which is clean and accurate, none of this 1 meter away hit detection some games seem to screw up. He also has a ground pound just like Super Mario 64  The formula is simple, reach the end of the level whilst grabbing the 'high score' collectibles that guide you through the level. Collect the five colored gems scattered about if your a completionist and search for creatures called Gobbo's that are a well hidden. As expected after few stages and you get a boss, beat him and on to world two, rinse and repeat. The stage design is really decent, there are always lots of bonus secrets to discover and they tend to be rather challenging, I really wish games did this as often today. The writing has a cheeky charm and the characters actually have personality without being too look-at-me-I'm-hilarious especially the bosses. Common and easy to locate and in-expensive, go grab Croc. You can even play the GBC version for free here.


- Alexander Bruce

Croc trailer:














Similar games:
- Croc 2 (PS1, SAT, PC)
- Croc 1 (GBC entirely new game)
- Croc 2 (GBC entirely new game)