Sony's original Playstation mascot is looking to return once again with a brand spanking new adventure specifically made for the Playstation 2 format. Can Crash bring anything further to the table in terms of gameplay or visuals? According to Universal Interactive Studios, a resounding YES on both issues. Naughty Dog has passed the torch of the franchise over to UIS and has moved on to other Playstation 2 projects. Instead Traveller's Tales has taken over to bring Crash forward and into the next generation of gaming. From what has been discussed, Traveller's Tales will continue to utilize the gaming formula that has made the Crash series popular. Therefore, players can expect levels involving new vehicles, various puzzles and a few additional movements to add to Crash's repertoire.

Here is an outline from UIS in terms of the expected storyline: The trouble begins in The Wrath of Cortex when the evil Dr. Cortex decides to rid himself of Crash once and for all! To energize his most diabolical creation to date, Cortex channels the power of the Elementals, a group of renegade masks with the destructive powers of Air, Earth, Water and Fire. To stop the Elementals and Cortex's new weapon, Crash will go face 5 game hubs, 25 dynamic levels and 5 unique bosses, as well as the appearance of a new character that will send shock waves through the Crash franchise. For the first time ever you can play as either Crash or his kid sister Coco. In worlds varying from the Wild West to the jungles of Africa, players will face tsunami waves, tornadoes, stampeding herds of animals and much more. Gamers will travel over land, sea, and air using new vehicles such as a Glider, Atlas Sphere, Mini-Scooter, Heli-Pak and even a massive Crash Mech. Players will embark on the ultimate Crash adventure as they blitz enemies, dodge obstacles, jump across platforms, navigate new vehicles, discover hidden levels and collectibles and ultimately thwart Dr. Cortexs sinister plans. The original story and over 40 hours of action-packed gameplay will help keep players at the edge of their seats.

Here is what UIS is promising in terms of game features:

> Over 30 brand new levels bringing Crash to a Volcanic Island, Japanese Village, the Jungles of Africa and more.

> Vibrant, stunning graphics, real-time light and shadows, and the most realistic special effects ever seen in a Crash game.

> Coco as a fully playable character.

> A slew of inventive modes of transportation.

> Unique multi-player mini-game mode played over 10 different areas.

Whether all of this translates into solid gameplay and storyline remain to be seen. We do know that Traveller's Tales have been hard at work on this title for quite some time and have high expectations to get their product out in a very polished state. Crash Bandicoot: The Wrath of Cortex is due this November. More on this promising titles as it becomes available.