Get ready, Astro Bot fans! The highly anticipated free post-launch speedrun levels will debut tomorrow, October 17. Players can expect a new level released every week, adding even more excitement to this beloved PS5-exclusive 3D platformer. Team Asobi studio director Nicolas Doucet shared the thrilling news on the PlayStation Blog, detailing what players can look forward to.
The first of these new levels, titled “Building Speed,” promises an exhilarating experience as players navigate through a bustling, sky-high city. With the help of Barkster, the bulldog booster, players will face a series of challenges, from dodging cranes to smashing through crates. Perhaps the most amusing obstacle is a flying car wash, adding a whimsical touch to the gameplay as you race to rescue your stranded crew.
“Following the release of Building Speed, we will launch a brand new speedrun level each week,” Doucet explained. “This means that just as you master every jump, hover, and spin in one level, a new challenge will be waiting for you.” This commitment to delivering fresh content will keep players engaged and eager to explore the new environments and challenges.
Astro Bot
All updates for Astro Bot, from October 17 to November 14, will be available every Thursday at 6 AM PT / 2 PM BST / 10 PM JST. This free downloadable content (DLC) will ultimately add a total of 10 new Special Bots to the game, enriching the gameplay experience and providing players with even more objectives to complete. Sony has already revealed two of the upcoming Special Bots: Eve from Stellar Blade and one from Helldivers. Doucet teased fans, saying, “As for who is next, well, that’s for you to find out. So, get busy rescuing!”
Beyond the immediate excitement of the new levels, Doucet hinted at more post-launch support for Astro Bot, suggesting that there might be surprises in store for players. “That’s all we have for today,” he said, “but watch this space as there may be even more surprises coming soon.” This statement fuels anticipation among fans who are eager to see how the game will evolve in the coming weeks and months.
Astro Bot has already captured the hearts of gamers with its charming gameplay and impressive design. The title features a staggering 173 bot cameos from PlayStation games past and present, showcasing a rich tapestry of PlayStation history. For those interested in Easter eggs, IGN has put together a feature titled Astro Bot: Every PlayStation Character, which dives into the delightful references scattered throughout the game.
However, one notable absence has sparked discussions among fans: the lack of iconic characters from the Final Fantasy franchise. This omission is particularly striking given Final Fantasy‘s long-standing association with PlayStation. Characters like Cloud Strife from Final Fantasy VII are notably missing, leading to speculation about their potential inclusion in the game.
Last month, Game File asked Doucet about this conspicuous absence. He acknowledged that Team Asobi had initially hoped to include Cloud but faced challenges that prevented it. “It’s difficult to comment on that,” he explained, adding, “We really respect the choice of each publisher.” This respect for creative decisions reflects the careful thought Team Asobi puts into the game’s development.
As the launch of the new speedrun levels approaches, excitement is palpable within the gaming community. With each new level promising fresh challenges and surprises, Astro Bot continues to evolve as a captivating platformer. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, there’s no better time to dive in and experience the joy of rescuing bots and mastering speedrun challenges.
Mark your calendars for tomorrow’s launch and prepare for a whirlwind of fun and adventure as Astro Bot expands its universe with these thrilling new updates! Happy rescuing!
