Spyro: Season of Ice vs Spyro: Year of the Dragon

Spyro: Season of Ice is the first game in the series not developed by Insomniac Games and the first to appear on the Game Boy Advance. Featuring an isometric overhead perspective, the game retains Spyro's classic abilities like flame breath and gliding while introducing Mode 7 technology for its 3D-style flying bonus levels. Following the defeat of the Sorceress, an evil Rhynoc wizard named Grendor turns the fairies of the Dragon Realms into ice blocks to cure his headaches. Players control Spyro with the assistance of Hunter and Sparx to rescue the trapped fairies across diverse environments and thwart Grendor's plot.

Spyro: Year of the Dragon is the third installment in the Spyro series and the final game in the franchise developed by Insomniac Games. Set in the Forgotten Worlds, the story follows the titular purple dragon as he attempts to recover 150 magical dragon eggs stolen by an evil sorceress. Players must utilize Spyro's signature moves alongside new vehicle controls for tanks, submarines, and speedboats. The adventure also lets you play as a wacky cast of supporting characters including Sheila the kangaroo, Sergeant Byrd the flying penguin, Bentley the Yeti, and Agent 9 the space monkey.

• Brings the classic Spyro gameplay formula to a portable console for the first time
• Retains signature moves like flame breath and gliding
• Uses Mode 7 technology for immersive flying bonus levels
• Features familiar characters including Hunter and Sparx

• Engaging and diverse platforming gameplay
• Charming cast of playable supporting characters
• Fun vehicle segments including tanks and submarines
• Classic nostalgic atmosphere and humor

• Isometric camera angle takes time to get used to compared to 3D titles
• Lacks multiplayer or cooperative gameplay modes
• Limited visual fidelity on original Game Boy Advance hardware

• Lower critic score of 55 out of 100
• Limited to single player mode
• May feel dated compared to modern platformers