SpongeBob SquarePants: The Cosmic Shake, a platformer brimming with Bikini Bottom charm, has arrived on the PlayStation 5. After spending considerable time exploring its vibrant worlds and engaging in its wacky gameplay, I’m ready to share my thoughts on this colorful adventure. Does it capture the spirit of the beloved cartoon? Let’s dive in.

The game boasts a vibrant art style that perfectly captures the aesthetic of the SpongeBob SquarePants universe. The character models are expressive, the environments are richly detailed, and the animations are fluid and hilarious. The inclusion of 101 songs from the show is a huge plus for fans, with “Sweet Victory” being a particular standout. The new cosmic costumes, “King Doubloon” and “Plush Gary,” offer a fun incentive for completionists. The level design is clever, incorporating familiar locations with inventive twists. There’s a real sense of exploration and discovery throughout the game, leading to many amusing moments.

The PS5 version runs smoothly, with a consistent frame rate and minimal loading times. The game’s performance is impressive, especially considering the visual fidelity. The controls are responsive and intuitive, making platforming challenges enjoyable rather than frustrating. While the difficulty curve is generally well-paced, some later levels present a significant challenge, demanding precision and quick reflexes. However, the game’s charming atmosphere and forgiving checkpoint system mitigate the difficulty considerably. The multiplayer mode adds a layer of cooperative fun, making it a great option for playing with friends or family.

Pros:

• Stunning visuals and faithful recreation of the SpongeBob aesthetic
• Excellent soundtrack featuring 101 songs from the show
• Responsive controls and smooth gameplay
• Creative level design and exploration opportunities
• Fun and engaging multiplayer mode

Cons:

• Some later levels can be quite challenging
• The story, while fun, might not appeal to all players

SpongeBob SquarePants: The Cosmic Shake is a delightful platformer that successfully captures the spirit and humor of the beloved cartoon. While the difficulty might spike in later levels, the charming visuals, fantastic soundtrack, and engaging gameplay outweigh the minor shortcomings. If you’re a SpongeBob fan, or simply looking for a fun and colorful platforming experience, this is a highly recommended title. The addition of the multiplayer element adds to its replayability making it a great pick for both solo and collaborative fun. I give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.