Crash Bandicoot in Smash Ultimate: Developer insights and fan expectations analyzed
Developer Reactions to Smash Inclusion
The developers behind Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time have finally weighed in on the long-standing fan request to see the iconic marsupial join Super Smash Bros. Ultimate’s roster. In a recent interview with Nintendo Life, Toys for Bob Creative Producer Lou Studdert shared his personal enthusiasm while maintaining realistic expectations about the decision-making process.
“We all dream of that day, don’t we?!” Studdert exclaimed when asked about Crash’s potential Smash appearance. “If I had any influence, I sure would love to see that as well.”
However, Studdert was quick to clarify that any such decision would be “something out of my hands entirely,” acknowledging the complex negotiations and approvals required for third-party character inclusions. This tempered response suggests that while the development team supports the idea, they may not have direct involvement in the selection process.
Historical Context of Third-Party Characters
The inclusion of third-party characters in Super Smash Bros. has evolved significantly since the franchise’s inception. The groundbreaking additions of Sonic and Solid Snake in previous installments opened the floodgates for crossover possibilities, creating a precedent that has fans constantly speculating about new additions.
Crash Bandicoot represents one of the last major platforming icons not yet represented in Smash Ultimate’s massive roster. His potential inclusion would complete a trifecta of 90s platforming mascots alongside Mario and Sonic. Interestingly, while most developers express enthusiasm for their characters joining Smash (as seen with franchises like Overwatch, Doom, and Devil May Cry), there are exceptions like Yakuza creator Toshihiro Nagoshi who has expressed reservations about his characters appearing in fighting games.
Current Smash DLC Landscape
With only two remaining slots in Fighters Pass Volume 2, the competition for inclusion is fiercer than ever. Crash Bandicoot consistently ranks among the most requested characters in fan polls and online discussions, but faces stiff competition from other popular candidates like Master Chief from Halo or characters from indie darlings like Hades.
ActivisionThe timing of Crash 4’s Switch port release could work in the character’s favor, as Nintendo often coordinates Smash reveals with relevant game releases. However, as Studdert noted, these decisions involve complex licensing agreements between Nintendo, Activision, and potentially other stakeholders.
E3 Timing and Leaked Information
The upcoming E3 2021 event, scheduled to begin on June 12, presents the perfect opportunity for a potential Crash Bandicoot reveal. Nintendo has historically used E3 as a platform for major Smash announcements, including previous double character reveals.
Adding fuel to the speculation fire is a leaked document suggesting a five-year plan for Crash Bandicoot that allegedly includes Smash Ultimate inclusion in 2021. While unverified, this leak aligns with the current timing and could explain why Crash 4 received a Switch port after initially launching as a PlayStation timed exclusive.
ActivisionFor fans eager to see Crash join the battle, the waiting period won’t be long. The E3 countdown has begun, and Nintendo’s presentation could finally answer whether this long-requested crossover will become reality.
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