Revolutionary Step: Crash Team Rumble Introduces Groundbreaking Non-Binary Character

Toys for Bob, the developer behind Crash Team Rumble, has revealed new information about Catbat, the game's groundbreaking non-binary character. Following the success of Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time, which reintroduced the beloved characters to the gaming world, the online multiplayer spin-off aims to attract a new generation of fans. The high-energy trailer, which debuted at December's Game Awards 2022, showcased the familiar faces of Crash, Coco, and Dr. Neo Cortex as they raced to collect Wompa Fruit on vibrant maps. In addition to the classic characters, Catbat, a mysterious bat/cat hybrid creature, was introduced as a new addition to Cortex's team.

Toys for Bob's Creative Director Dan Neil and co-studio head Paul Yan have recently confirmed in an interview with Kotaku that Catbat will be the first non-binary character in the Crash Bandicoot franchise. The character was originally envisioned as non-binary by former Crash Team Rumble character designer Nicholas Kole, but the decision to keep Catbat's gender identity unchanged was never considered by Yan and Neil.

Toys for Bob drew inspiration from David Bowie's iconic androgynous style when creating Catbat, the new character in Crash Team Rumble. As the character's model sheet was revealed, referring to Catbat with they/them pronouns felt like a natural fit. Yan emphasized that this decision was not a forced one, but rather an organic way of portraying the character. To further highlight Catbat's gender identity, Toys for Bob cast Erika Ishii, a genderfluid actor, as their voice in the game.

In addition to Bowie's influence, Catbat's backstory is surprisingly similar to Crash Bandicoot's. Like Crash, Catbat was created by Cortex as part of his mutant army but managed to escape and developed a passion for rock and roll music. Their purpose in life became freeing other mutants from the evil scientist's grasp. While this backstory will largely be told through tie-in material, it adds depth and complexity to Catbat's character in the game.

As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it's exciting to see more and more representation for the LGBTQ+ community. The inclusion of Catbat, the first non-binary character in the Crash Team Rumble franchise, is a step forward in creating a more inclusive and diverse gaming experience. Fans of the series can look forward to playing as this rebellious, punk rock-loving character when the game launches later this month on multiple platforms.

Source: Kotaku