If we're talking about characters who know how to fall with style, Bubsy is the undisputed king. After leaving a rather questionable mark on the '90s, especially with that 3D experiment that ended up becoming a living meme, the most boastful anthropomorphic cat in history is back. This new installment, developed by Fabraz and published by Atari, attempts to redeem the red lynx's honor with a concept that blends pure nostalgia with a modern and very bold approach.
The game is launching on virtually all current platforms, including PS5, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, and PC , in addition to supporting the highly anticipated Switch 2 and previous-generation consoles like PS4 and Xbox One. It's not just a re-release, but a complete reinvention that aims to revive the 3D platforming genre, a field that has been somewhat neglected lately, and where Bubsy hopes to shine with his usual charisma and sharp wit.
Intergalactic plot and setting
The story plunges us into a rather outlandish conflict. It turns out the Woolies , those enemies obsessed with wool, have kidnapped all the sheep on Earth. What seemed like a minor problem becomes critical when the sheep, fed up with their captors, rebel and create the Baabots : sheep robots armed with advanced technology. These new villains haven't stopped at stealing wool; they've also snatched Bubsy's most prized treasure, the Golden Fleece.
To solve this chaos, our protagonist must travel through the cosmos, visiting three different planets . Each of these worlds has a theme based on everyday professions and objects, such as office supplies, stationery, or computers, creating visually interesting scenarios, although at times they may feel somewhat empty. The narrative is light and relies entirely on absurd humor and breaking the fourth wall, where Bubsy mocks his own reputation as a "failure" and Atari's decisions.
Game mechanics and control
As for the controls, the game offers a system that's easy to grasp but difficult to master . Bubsy can perform double jumps, climb walls with his claws, wall jump, and use his signature glide. If you chain these moves together correctly, you can reach incredibly high areas, although the cartoonish style of the animations sometimes makes it tricky to judge the exact landing, which is why an optional reticle is included.
The big new feature is the furball form . When activated, Bubsy transforms into a high-speed, spinning orange sphere, allowing him to bounce and slide down giant slides. This mechanic adds a layer of speed similar to Super Monkey Ball, although some critics point out that it makes certain sections of the level feel artificially stretched to justify the speed of movement.
Collectibles, customization and challenges
- Balls of wool: They are the main currency of the game and are used to buy suits on the ship, which functions as the operations center or hub.
- Hidden plans: They are hidden in the levels and allow you to unlock health upgrades and new movement abilities.
- Skins: There are fun outfits, including one that parodies Sonic and another that mimics the rough look of Bubsy 3D.
- Time Trial Mode: It is perhaps the most powerful part of the game, as it allows you to upload your times to a online leaderboard and compete against other players' ghosts.
The game is structured into a total of 15 levels (five per planet), each culminating in a battle against a Baabot boss. Unlike older games, there is no limited lives system; instead, you have a health bar. If you are defeated, you return to the last checkpoint you visited.
Technical and sound section
Visually, the game features a vibrant , cel-shaded style reminiscent of cartoons. However, opinions are divided: while some praise the vividness of the colors, others consider the level of detail in the models low by 2026 standards and the animations somewhat clunky . Despite this, the level design is ingenious and rewards player curiosity.
The sound is undoubtedly one of the game's strongest points. The soundtrack, composed by the duo Fat Bard , is a phenomenal mix of jazz, electronica, and electro-swing that perfectly complements the game's tone. One thing to note is that, although the subtitles are in Spanish, many of Bubsy's improvised jokes during the levels can only be fully appreciated if you understand English, as they are not translated.
The game's length is relatively short, with the main story taking about four to six hours to complete . For more demanding players, there's the "Pawsome Edition" for Switch, which includes physical extras like an art book and a poster. There's also a 9-lives mode for those seeking a much more hardcore and punishing experience.
Bubsy 4D presents itself as a game with heart and a great sense of humor that manages to redeem the character's image. Despite some camera glitches and a somewhat short length, the combination of precise platforming , incredible music, and the lynx's sarcastic attitude make it an entertaining experience that restores dignity to one of the most hapless mascots in video game history.