The cult-classic 3D platformer Croc: Legend of the Gobbos has returned with a faithful remaster, now available on Steam. Originally launched in 1997, Croc’s charming visuals, creative level design, and nostalgic gameplay have been preserved for a new generation of players to experience — with just enough polish to make it playable on modern PCs and handhelds.
Croc: Legend of the Gobbos Is Back — The ’90s Classic Platformer Gets a Faithful Remaster on Steam
The beloved ’90s platforming adventure Croc: Legend of the Gobbos has officially returned, now available on Steam as part of a faithful remaster. Once a fan favorite on PlayStation and Sega Saturn, Croc’s quirky charm and colorful worlds are being rediscovered by retro fans and a new generation of players alike. Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or exploring Croc’s universe for the first time, this re-release delivers a slice of classic 3D platforming history.
What Is Croc: Legend of the Gobbos?
Originally released in 1997, Croc: Legend of the Gobbos was one of the earliest 3D platformers to follow in the footsteps of Super Mario 64. Developed by Argonaut Software — the same team behind the Super FX chip used in Star Fox — Croc was an ambitious, charming adventure featuring a small green crocodile and his quest to save the adorable, fluffy Gobbos from the evil Baron Dante.
The game featured full 3D environments, puzzle-solving, platforming challenges, boss fights, and one of the most iconic soundtracks of the era.
Now, Nightdive Studios has brought the game back via Steam with enhancements for modern systems while preserving its original look, feel, and gameplay.
What’s New in the Remaster?
While this isn’t a full remake, it’s a polished, faithful remaster that improves Croc’s accessibility without altering the nostalgic experience fans love.
Key improvements include:
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Modern resolution support (up to 4K)
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Widescreen compatibility
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Improved framerate and input latency
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Enhanced lighting and textures (while preserving the original art style)
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Controller support for modern gamepads
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Steam Achievements
Nightdive’s use of their KEX engine ensures a smooth experience across a range of hardware, even on handhelds like the Steam Deck.
Why Croc Still Matters
For many, Croc wasn’t just a game — it was an introduction to 3D gaming outside of Nintendo’s ecosystem. While Croc didn’t reach the same heights as Mario, it carved out a special place in gaming history as:
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A transitional title in early 3D platformer design
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One of the first games to introduce analog movement and camera control
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A cult classic with a dedicated fanbase still active today
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A major influence on later games in the genre (like Ty the Tasmanian Tiger, Gex, and Spyro)
With its whimsical level design, varied worlds (lava, snow, caves, castles), and catchy music, Croc is still charming, challenging, and satisfying in 2025 — almost 30 years later.
Is It Worth Playing Today?
If you’re a fan of:
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Retro 3D platformers
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Games like Banjo-Kazooie, Spyro, or Mario 64
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Charming mascots from the PS1 era
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Family-friendly adventures with secrets to uncover
…then yes, Croc is absolutely worth revisiting.
The remaster makes it accessible for modern gamers, while the original level design and mechanics remain untouched — which might feel a bit dated to some, but perfectly nostalgic to others.
Even if you’ve never played it before, Croc offers a solid introduction to the platformers that defined a generation.
Steam Launch Details
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Release Date: May 15, 2024
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Publisher: Nightdive Studios
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Platforms: Windows PC (Steam)
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Price: $14.99 USD (subject to regional pricing)
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Steam Deck Verified: Yes
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is this a remake or a remaster?
This is a remaster. It keeps the original visuals and gameplay intact while updating compatibility for modern systems and displays. - Is the game still hard to control like in the old days?
The controls are unchanged but feel smoother thanks to updated input handling. Croc’s tank-like movement may take a few minutes to get used to. - Does it include new content or levels?
No new levels or characters were added — this is a faithful return of the original game, not a reimagining. - Can I play it with a controller?
Yes — full controller support is available, including for Xbox, PlayStation, and Steam Deck.
Final Thoughts
Croc: Legend of the Gobbos is more than just a retro curiosity — it’s a piece of gaming history, lovingly preserved. Whether you’re here for nostalgia or curious about a game that helped define 3D platformers outside of Nintendo, this remaster offers the perfect chance to jump in.
It’s faithful, it’s quirky, and it’s just as fun as you remember — or better, if you’ve never played it before. For fans of classic gaming, this one’s a must-have.
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