Crash Bandicoot 4 multiplayer: is it online and co-op?

Crash Bandicoot 4 multiplayer: Crash Bandicoot and Aku Aku grind on a rail
(Image credit: Activision)

The Crash Bandicoot 4 multiplayer modes available allow you to clear levels with friends in tow. This is a far cry from what was on offer in the original game, which pretty much just consisted of linear, single-player missions to complete. 

Things have changed a lot since then, and with Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time being a modern reimagining of the classic platform series, it's understandable that there's a lot more variety in terms of modes.

Before you take the plunge and set off on a crate-stomping escapade, you'll want to know what the deal is with whether or not Crash Bandicoot 4 features online co-op. Not only that, but given that there are a few different multiplayer modes available, you'll also want to know what each one offers in terms of gameplay. 

Worry not, as this guide covers everything you need to know about Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time's multiplayer modes. You'll find info on both the couch co-op modes as well as other modes that you can play through with friends. 

Crash Bandicoot 4 multiplayer

Crash Bandicoot 4 multiplayer: All modes

Crash jumps into a jungle

(Image credit: Activision)

So, yes. To get it out of the way, Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time does have multiplayer, though it offers a rather novel alternative to the more traditional co-op mode with both players on one level at the same time. 

Instead, the main mode that the game offers is Pass N.Play. In this mode, up to four local players take turns making their way through levels. Once you die, or you hit a checkpoint, the game will prompt you to pass the controller to the next player. Then at the end of the level, each player will get a score. 

There are other ways to play too. Two modes live under the Bandicoot Battle section on the title screen. Checkpoint Race is a competitive mode for two to four players where players play time trial versions of levels where players change at every checkpoint. The fastest player to reach the most checkpoints wins. 

The final multiplayer mode is called Crate Combo. This is about racing to checkpoints again, but you want to destroy as many crates as possible with an ever-increasing multiplier. The player with the most points at the end wins.

Crash Bandicoot 4 multiplayer: online co op

Coco rides a creature

(Image credit: Activision)

Sorry to break it to you but Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time does not have online multiplayer. All of its multiplayer functionality is purely locally based. While this is undoubtedly frustrating for players who'd love to play with their friends that aren’t in their immediate vicinity, it's part of the nostalgic charm of the game. 

It seems Toys for Bob has taken the Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga multiplayer route and encouraged people to come together in person to play the game. That being the case, it’s still a big shame, as it will likely stop many players from playing together. 


Patrick Dane
Gaming Guides Editor

Patrick Dane is TechRadar Gaming's Guides Editor. With nearly a decade in the games press, he's been a consistent voice in the industry. He's written for a plethora of major publications and travelled the world doing it. He also has a deep passion for games as a service and their potential to tell evolving stories. To wit, he has over 2000 hours in Destiny 2, over 1000 in Overwatch and is now deeply into Valorant.