I believe they chose presentation over making it a real challenge in the main game. Like they wanted to keep a steady flow to keep more people engaged hoping they get to the end. Then added more of a challenge with the stuff that's unlocked after you finish the main game.Very fun, but I find the platforming parts far, far too easy most of the time. This makes it kind of weak in that aspect. The variety, music, aesthetics, and tight controls somewhat make up for that, but I only ever felt like I was half-engaged with the game outside of the symbol courses and Great Master Challenge. Astro's basic moveset could also use more tricks to interact with walls and platforms. I was initially having a blast with it and did until the end, but I kept waiting for the game to to take off, but it never reached the heights I thought it would and could.
It might be the best "modern" 3D platformer, but those don't have much of a presence anymore. Overall, similar quality to Mario Odyssey, maybe a bit better. Definitely not on the level of Mario 64, Galaxy, or even the original R&C trilogy (that in fairness are platformer shooters). It's a lot better than any Crash game and close to the original Spyro trilogy.
I wouldn't mind extended levels in the different tributes or if they went outside of PlayStation & made a Pacman or Sonic Level
I love platformers but perceive the game to be easy to plow with less interesting mechanics than Mario so I haven't played it yet. Came close to being my tipping point to grab a PS5.
I vow to come back and update this once I play it lol.
"Less interesting mechanics? " I don't think you even seen this game lol