Spyro Set to Join Crash Bandicoot in Lost Crash 5?

Activision's pivot to live-service games reportedly led to the cancellation of Crash Bandicoot 5, a project already in early development at Toys for Bob. A detailed report by Liam Robertson of DidYouKnowGaming reveals the game, envisioned as a single-player 3D platformer following Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time, was shelved due to Activision's reallocation of resources.

The report includes proposed story details and concept art showcasing a villainous children's school setting and the return of familiar antagonists. Remarkably, the art depicted Spyro, another PlayStation icon revitalized by Toys for Bob, as a playable character alongside Crash, battling an interdimensional threat. Robertson confirmed, "Crash and Spyro were intended to be the two playable characters."

This cancellation follows hints from former Toys for Bob concept artist Nicholas Kole. The decision seemingly stems from Activision's focus on live-service titles and perceived underperformance of Crash Bandicoot 4. This strategic shift wasn't limited to Crash; Robertson also reports the rejection of a pitch for Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3+4, a sequel to the successful remakes. Vicarious Visions, the studio behind the remakes, was absorbed into Activision, leading to the project's demise. Tony Hawk himself corroborated this, stating that plans for 3+4 were underway until Vicarious Visions' integration into Activision. Subsequent pitches from other studios failed to satisfy Activision, ultimately ending the project.