Crash Bandicoot is a 3D platformer where you guide a mutated marsupial through linear island levels to stop the scientist who created him. Most stages use a behind-the-back camera as you run toward the screen, though some switch to side-scrolling or forward-scrolling views. You defeat enemies by jumping on their heads or using Crash's signature spin attack. The setup: mad scientist Dr. Neo Cortex experiments on animals to build an army, but Crash escapes with his mind intact and becomes a threat. Cortex banishes him, setting up a chase across multiple islands filled with traps, hostile creatures, and platforming challenges. Levels are played in sequence—complete one to unlock the next. It's straightforward run-and-jump design with a mascot character, typical of mid-'90s console platformers but executed with then-novel 3D camera angles.
