The Asterix & Obelix XXL Collection compiles three action adventure titles centered on the comic book Gauls Asterix and Obelix. Players control the pair through third person perspectives as they navigate levels filled with platforming sequences, combat encounters against Roman soldiers, and light puzzle solving. The games emphasize straightforward brawling mechanics where characters slap or bash enemies, combined with exploration across varied environments inspired by the source material's historical and fantastical settings.
Gameplay
Core loops revolve around progressing through linear stages while defeating groups of opponents, smashing objects for collectibles, and using basic movement abilities like jumps and dashes. Combat involves chaining attacks to clear waves of legionaries, with some environmental interactions such as activating mechanisms or avoiding hazards. The remastered entries feature updated visuals and animations that maintain the cartoon style while improving clarity on modern displays. Players can toggle between enhanced graphics and the original presentation at any time in the first title, allowing direct comparison during play. Collectibles like helmets serve as progression markers, and the overall pace mixes deliberate exploration with faster combat sections.
Controls focus on accessible inputs suited to both new players and those familiar with older platformers. Skill upgrades or move expansions appear in later entries, adding variety to how Asterix and Obelix handle obstacles. Puzzles typically require simple object manipulation or timing-based actions rather than complex logic. The experience stays single player focused across most content, though one title incorporates local co op support for two players sharing the screen.
Game Modes
The collection incorporates several distinct modes beyond the main story campaigns. Retro mode lets players switch instantly to the classic visual style for nostalgic playthroughs. Course mode challenges participants to gather scattered coins within a time limit, often requiring the graphics toggle to reveal hidden items. Countdown mode tasks players with reaching a finish line as quickly as possible while navigating obstacles. Extreme mode raises the difficulty for those seeking greater challenge in the same level structures.
These additions appear primarily in the remastered first game and integrate directly into the existing levels. They encourage replay without altering the fundamental action adventure structure. Freeplay options in related entries allow revisiting completed stages at chosen difficulties to improve scores or completion rates.
Story and Progression
Each game follows self contained narratives drawn from the Asterix universe. The first centers on rescuing kidnapped villagers from Roman forces across multiple regions. The second explores a betrayal involving the druid Getafix and subsequent investigations. The third introduces the Crystal Menhir and its powers while supporting cooperative play. Progression ties directly to advancing through story chapters, with side objectives like full collectible runs providing additional goals.
Environments shift from Gaulish villages to distant lands, maintaining consistent combat and movement systems throughout. Voice acting and music support the humorous tone without overshadowing the action elements.
Is It Worth Playing?
The collection suits players who enjoy light hearted action adventure experiences with platforming and straightforward combat. User feedback on the remastered entry shows mostly positive reception, highlighting its appeal for series fans or those seeking accessible older style gameplay. The inclusion of multiple titles and the toggle feature between versions adds replay value for completionists. Local co op in the third game extends the experience for shared play sessions.
Those preferring modern depth in combat systems or extensive multiplayer may find the mechanics dated, while enthusiasts of the comics or classic platformers will appreciate the faithful adaptation and added challenges. Availability on PC supports straightforward access without additional requirements beyond standard hardware.
