The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Astro Bot makes a strong case for buying a PS5 if you want a polished, single-player platform adventure built around PlayStation hardware and full of PlayStation character cameos. But that is a personal fit, not an objective verdict: it is a PS5 exclusive, it is not multiplayer, and Sony’s official materials do not establish that every player should buy a console for it.
Why Astro Bot makes a case for PS5
Astro Bot is a standalone, full-sized adventure from Team Asobi, published by Sony Interactive Entertainment and released on September 6, 2024. Sony describes a story in which the PS5 mothership is attacked and Astro’s crew is scattered, sending Astro off to reunite them across the galaxy. The PlayStation product page calls the journey more than 50 planets; Sony’s launch announcement describes six galaxies and over 80 levels. Those are different measures of the game’s scope, not interchangeable counts. PlayStation’s game page and Sony’s launch announcement provide the publisher’s descriptions.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Sackboy: A Big Adventure – PlayStation 5 | $31.96 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
DOG MAN: Misson Impawsible - PlayStation 5 | $23.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Star Wars Outlaws - Limited Edition (Amazon Exclusive), PlayStation 5 | $35.00 | Buy on Amazon |
The console connection is more than exclusivity. Sony says the game was designed to showcase PS5 features: 4K visuals, 3D audio, and the high-speed SSD, alongside the DualSense controller’s haptic feedback and adaptive triggers. The triggers and vibration are also listed on the official store page. In play, the idea is that Astro’s abilities and the environments can be felt as well as seen and heard. A compatible 4K TV or display is needed for 4K resolution, but not to play the game. Sony’s launch announcement explains the hardware features and 4K condition.
PlayStation references are another part of its appeal: Sony says the adventure includes over 150 iconic heroes from PlayStation history. If recognizing familiar characters and worlds sounds like a treat rather than a distraction, that gives the game an extra layer beyond its platforming. Sony presents this as a celebration of PlayStation history, not as evidence that the game suits every player.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute#1 Best Overall
- Face thrilling, unpredictable challenges as you explore distinctive hand-crafted lands through deeply immersive and expressive controls.
- PERILOUS PLATFORMING EXPERIENCE - Explore here, there and everywhere as you utilize Sackboy’s cool, diverse move-set to face a huge variety of thrilling challenges, fierce enemies and startling surprises.
- RE-STUFFED. RE-STITCHED. RE-ZIPPED - Sackboy returns to the big time stuffed with fresh moves and game-changing gadgets in an awe-inspiring and downright fun 3D adventure in this new, but familiar world.
What kind of player is likely to want it?
The strongest fit is someone who wants a single-player platform adventure, enjoys exploring varied stages, and likes the tactile features of the DualSense. Team Asobi’s May 2024 announcement described more than 15 abilities and over 70 enemy types, including Barkster, Twin-Frog Gloves, and Giant Sponge. It also mentioned difficult retry levels, suggesting that the adventure includes challenges for players who want them alongside its accessible presentation. These are figures and examples from the developer’s announcement, not a current downloadable-content tally. See Team Asobi’s game page.
It may be a poor reason to buy a PS5 if you mainly want multiplayer, do not enjoy platforming, or are looking for a game that also works on other systems. The official PlayStation page lists one player and optional online play; optional online features do not make the game a multiplayer adventure. The store FAQ identifies it as PS5-exclusive and says it is not available on PS4 or PS VR2. PlayStation’s official product page sets out those platform and player details.
Rank #2
- 50 Exciting Levels: Explore iconic locations from the Dog Man universe, including the City Hall, Giant Marshmallow Factory, and the Police Station. Each location offers platforming and puzzle-solving challenges.
- Teamwork: Switch between Dog Man and his Supa Buddies, each with their own special abilities, to overcome obstacles and defeat bosses. o Dog Man: Digs underground and glides through the air. o Li’l Petey: Hacks gadgets and fits into small spaces. o 80-HD: Pushes heavy objects and jumps long distances.
- Fun Gadgets: Unlock new gadgets and abilities as you progress, like a grappling hook, rocket boots and power gloves to navigate through the levels. Puzzles and Bosses: Use your brain to solve puzzles and defeat unique bosses. Each boss fight requires clever use of your team’s abilities.
- Humor and Action: Enjoy funny dialogue, amusing interactions, and non-stop action that keeps you engaged in Dog Man’s world. Rewards and Collectibles: Revisit levels with new gadgets to find secret areas, and rescue the missing Comic Club members.
- Art Style: Great animations inspired by the books, with comic-style sound effects that add a fun, cartoonish touch to the action.
Is Astro Bot included with a PS5?
Do not assume it is included. PlayStation distinguishes Astro Bot from the free Astro’s Playroom: Astro Bot is a standalone full-sized game, not a free game like Astro’s Playroom. Sony’s FAQ does not establish the terms of every console bundle or promotion, so check the specific PS5 listing before purchase. The game was announced in physical standard, digital standard, and digital deluxe editions. The June 2024 pre-order announcement described a poster in the physical standard edition and digital extras for the deluxe edition; its pre-order bonuses were tied to those 2024 terms and should not be treated as current offers. PlayStation Blog’s edition announcement gives the original details.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Do you need the Astro Bot DualSense controller?
No. The game supports DualSense haptics and adaptive triggers on a standard PS5 DualSense controller; Sony also announced an optional limited-edition Astro Bot controller inspired by Astro’s in-game speeder. Sony’s announcement says the special controller and game are sold separately. It is a collectible, not a requirement for playing. Availability can change, so check an official current listing before treating it as purchasable.
Recommended Free Tools
Rank #3
- Only at Amazon Limited Edition Content - The Rogue Infiltrator Character Pack includes cosmetics for Kay and Nix.
- Discover a galaxy of opportunity. Explore distinct locations with bustling cities and cantinas. Race across sprawling outdoor landscapes on your speeder. Each location brings new adventures, unique challenges, and enticing rewards if you’re willing to take the risk.
- Experience an original scoundrel story. Live the high-stakes lifestyle of an outlaw. Turn any situation to your advantage with Nix by your side: fight with your blaster, overcome enemies with stealth and gadgets, or find the right moments to distract enemies and gain the upper hand.
- Embark on high-stakes missions. Take on high-risk, high-reward missions from the galaxy’s crime syndicates. Steal valuable goods, infiltrate secret locations, and outwit enemies as one of the galaxy’s most wanted. Every choice you make influences your ever-changing reputation.
- Jump into the pilot seat. Pilot your ship, the Trailblazer, as you engage in thrilling dogfights with the Empire and other foes. Find the right opportunities to chase, evade, and attack to get the upper hand.
Should Astro Bot be the reason you buy a PS5?
It is a persuasive reason if you already want a PS5 and this particular combination—single-player platforming, PlayStation cameos, and DualSense-focused design—is exactly what you want from a game. It is a much weaker reason if you need multiplayer, cross-platform availability, or a broader assurance that the console has a library suited to you. Sony’s official sources establish the exclusivity and hardware integration; they do not establish a universal buying recommendation or prove that Astro Bot is objectively the best PS5 game.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
