Asterix & Obelix XXL3: The Crystal Menhir is a third-person adventure game set in the world of the classic Asterix comics. Players control the Gaulish heroes Asterix and Obelix as they navigate Roman-occupied territories in 50 B.C., using combat, puzzle-solving with a magical artifact, and light exploration to progress through the campaign.
Gameplay
The core loop centers on beat-em-up style combat where Asterix and Obelix deliver slaps and punches to groups of Roman soldiers. Movement feels responsive on PC, with basic attacks chaining into combos and environmental interactions. The standout mechanic involves the Crystal Menhir, which players switch between four forms during levels: stone for heavy smashing, ice for freezing foes, fire for area damage, and magnetic for pulling objects or enemies. These forms integrate into both combat and traversal, such as using magnetic properties to rearrange platforms or clear paths.
Levels follow a linear structure with a world map for selection, encouraging players to revisit stages for collectibles and optional tasks. Side missions appear scattered throughout, often involving simple fetch quests or defeating specific enemies. Hidden objects reward thorough searching, adding a light collection layer without complex inventory management. The game supports keyboard and mouse controls natively, though controller input feels natural for the action focus.
Game Modes
Single-player mode lets one person handle both heroes or switch between them as needed. The campaign unfolds as a solo adventure through Roman lands, with the full story available without assistance. Two-player co-op supports local split-screen on the same device or remote play together via Steam features, allowing a second player to join as the other hero. This mode emphasizes teamwork in fights and menhir puzzles, with both participants contributing to progress equally. No online matchmaking or competitive modes exist, keeping the focus on cooperative story progression.
Story and Setting
The narrative begins in the indomitable Gaulish village where daily life continues despite Roman presence. A letter from the high priestess Avina Gandir prompts Getafix to retrieve the Crystal Menhir, launching the heroes on a journey across the empire. Players encounter familiar figures including the village chief Vitalstatistix, the bard Cacofonix, and the druid Getafix, alongside new characters with pun-filled names. The plot revolves around the menhir's powers and the threat they pose, delivered through comic-style cutscenes and dialogue that matches the source material's humorous tone.
Characters and Progression
Asterix and Obelix serve as the playable duo, each with distinct strengths in combat that complement each other in co-op. Supporting cast members provide quest guidance and occasional assistance. Progression relies on completing main objectives and optional content rather than deep skill trees or upgrades. Levels introduce new Roman enemy types and environmental challenges that test menhir form switching.
Is It Worth Playing?
Reception sits at mixed levels, with 61 percent of user reviews positive from over 350 submissions. The game appeals most to Asterix fans and those seeking a short, casual co-op experience with straightforward action and family-friendly humor. Local or remote co-op adds replay value for pairs, while single-player delivers the complete story in a compact package. Repetitive combat and simplified visuals draw criticism from players expecting more depth or variety. It suits anyone comfortable with linear adventure games focused on light combat and puzzle elements rather than complex systems or long campaigns. No major updates or ongoing seasons have altered the original release content since 2019.
