Special Platforms

Learn about the different types of special platforms in Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back, including bonus stages, gem platforms, and skull platforms, and how to use them to find gems and secrets.

Hey there! Crash Bandicoot 2 has some pretty neat tricks up its sleeve when it comes to getting around. You'll run into these things called 'special platforms' that can whisk you away to secret areas or bonus stages. Let's break down what they are and how to use 'em so you don't miss out on any goodies!

Bonus Stage Platforms: These are the most common ones you'll see. They usually have a big question mark on them. Just jump on one, and bam! You're off to a bonus stage. These stages are awesome because they're packed with breakable boxes for extra points, tons of Wumpa Fruit, and sometimes even extra lives. Keep an eye out, though – sometimes the entrance isn't a platform at all! It might just be a question mark on the floor that opens up a hidden hatch when you stand on it, or even a pit with a giant question mark behind it. Don't fall in unless you mean to!

Gem Platforms: You'll also find platforms that match the color of the gems you collect. These are super important! They won't do anything until you've actually grabbed the corresponding colored gem. Once you have the gem, jump on its matching platform, and it'll open up a new path or area within the level. It's your ticket to finding those harder-to-reach spots.

Skull Platforms: These ones look a bit more dangerous, usually sporting a skull and crossbones. These platforms are a bit tricky: they only activate if you manage to reach them without dying *at all* in that particular level up to that point. If you succeed, jumping on one will take you to a much tougher section of the level, but it's usually where you'll find a silver gem. Heads up: If you die on the path the skull platform leads you to, you can usually jump back on the platform to return to the main level. But if you die *before* reaching the skull platform, or anywhere else in the level, that skull platform becomes unusable for that run. So, try to stay alive!