The PlayStation 4 version of Psychonauts 2 is caught between a rock and a difficult place. Despite being perfectly reproducible in Sony’s latest generation system, it’s almost as if the world doesn’t know that this particular version exists, as marketing is included in the Xbox Game X versions | S and PC of the game. This is completely understandable, as Microsoft now owns Double Fine, and it’s no surprise that it hasn’t been booked to produce a native version of PS5 either. We all know that the game looks better and plays elsewhere, but if what’s available on PS4 is your only option, I beg you to do so.
We still have a team member doing a full review of Push Square, but in the meantime I wanted to share my first impressions. I grabbed the original Psychonauts the game for a few months back and fell pretty quickly. While I liked the story and characters, the game was too archaic for my tastes. 16 years later, though, and this sequel already provides some of the funniest stuff I’ve ever had with a video game all year. This is after only three hours of play.
What has caught my attention so far is the sheer amount of creativity on display. From innovative approaches to 2D platforming sections to how powers are handled during the first game, I’m in a constant sense of awe and wonder as Psychonauts 2 introduces me to new mechanics and features. It really keeps its promises and keeps you constantly guessing about what’s around the corner. The basic gameplay is also super solid, with precise platforms, a joy of participating, and useful combat that triggers the skills of the mind.
However, the characters are the protagonists of the show. Raz already feels like my best friend, chatting through The Motherlobe in an attempt to get rid of his new position as an intern. The scene in which her clothes are stolen is a highlight, and so are the ones in which Lili loves to punch the protagonist. Everything is so charming and charismatic; I can already say that I will have a great time with these new faces.
You don’t even have to have played the first game to understand what’s going on. Yes, it’s a direct sequel and playing the PSVR games Psychonauts in the Rhombus of Ruin would also help set up the second game, but I think I have a pretty decent understanding of what’s going on. A handy movie scene plays out at first to get you hooked and it helped me a lot.
So I get it. Psychonauts 2 may not look or work the best on PS4, but I really don’t think you should let that stop you from checking out the game if you were previously interested. The game has absolutely lived up to the praise of other critics so far, and I can’t wait to play much more this weekend. Think of it as a PSA – the PS4 version may not be the best, but you really miss out on a wonderful title if you decide to skip Psychonauts 2 just for that reason. Double Fine has something special on its hands and you must experience it.
Have you been playing the PS4 version of Psychonauts 2? What are your first impressions? Share them in the comments below.