Netflix Reportedly Developing Animated Series Based on Crash Bandicoot Franchise

Crash Bandicoot Jumps to Streaming: Netflix Adapts Iconic Platformer

Reports indicate that the beloved video game icon, Crash Bandicoot, is the latest major intellectual property (IP) being adapted for the small screen by Netflix. The streaming giant is reportedly developing an animated series based on the long-running platforming franchise, signaling a continued commitment to translating successful video game narratives and characters for a global audience.

While neither Netflix nor IP owner Activision (now part of Microsoft) has officially confirmed the project, the news aligns perfectly with Netflix’s aggressive strategy of leveraging established gaming franchises to attract and retain subscribers. The project is understood to be in the early stages of development, often referred to as being ‘in the pipeline’ or ‘quietly developing.’

The Bandicoot’s Next Level: What We Know About the Series

The reported series will be an animated adaptation, following in the successful footsteps of other Netflix video game projects like Castlevania and Arcane. Given the visual style and tone of the Crash Bandicoot games—which emphasize slapstick comedy, vibrant worlds, and high-energy action—an animated format is the most logical choice for translating the franchise’s unique appeal.

Key elements expected to feature in any adaptation include:

• The Protagonist: The titular, genetically enhanced bandicoot, Crash.
• The Antagonist: The recurring mad scientist, Dr. Neo Cortex, Crash’s creator and arch-nemesis.
• The Setting: The fictional Wumpa Islands and various exotic, hazard-filled locations.
• Core Mechanics: Elements like the use of the protective Aku Aku mask and the collection of Wumpa Fruit.

This development comes at a time when the Crash Bandicoot franchise has seen a significant resurgence, driven by successful remasters like Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy and the critically acclaimed 2020 sequel, Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time.

Context: Netflix’s Video Game Adaptation Strategy

Netflix has established itself as a major player in the video game adaptation space, moving far beyond simple tie-ins to create high-quality, narrative-driven content. The decision to pursue Crash Bandicoot reflects several key strategic priorities for the platform:

Proven Success in Adaptation

Netflix has demonstrated that it can successfully translate diverse gaming genres into compelling television. Shows like Castlevania (mature animation), Arcane (high-budget, stylized animation based on League of Legends), and The Witcher (live-action fantasy) have proven that a dedicated fan base exists and is willing to follow their favorite IPs to streaming.

Targeting Nostalgia and Family Audiences

Unlike the mature themes of Castlevania, Crash Bandicoot is inherently more accessible and family-friendly, appealing to both the generation that grew up with the original PlayStation games and younger viewers introduced through the recent remasters. This broad demographic appeal makes it a valuable asset for a service aiming to provide content for all ages.

Leveraging Established IP

In the highly competitive streaming market, established intellectual property provides a built-in audience and reduces the risk associated with launching entirely new concepts. Crash Bandicoot, first introduced in 1996 by Naughty Dog, possesses decades of brand recognition.

The Microsoft Factor: Implications for the IP

A critical piece of context for any Crash Bandicoot project in 2025 is the ownership structure. The franchise is owned by Activision Blizzard, which was formally acquired by Microsoft in 2023. This places Crash Bandicoot firmly within the portfolio of Xbox Game Studios and Microsoft’s broader media strategy.

Microsoft has historically been keen to expand its gaming IPs into other media formats, viewing them as valuable cross-platform assets. The development of a major animated series on a platform like Netflix suggests that Microsoft is open to licensing its newly acquired properties to maximize their visibility and cultural footprint, even outside of the Xbox ecosystem.

This move could potentially signal a new era of media collaborations for other classic Activision IPs, such as Spyro the Dragon or even Diablo and Overwatch properties, following the successful integration into the Microsoft structure.

Key Takeaways

For fans and industry observers, the reported development of a Crash Bandicoot series offers several key insights:

• Project Status: The animated series is reportedly in development at Netflix, though official confirmation is pending.
• Format: It is expected to be an animated series, suitable for the franchise’s comedic, action-oriented style.
• Strategic Fit: The project reinforces Netflix’s commitment to high-profile video game adaptations, targeting both nostalgic adult fans and new family audiences.
• Ownership Context: The series is being developed under the watch of Microsoft, the current owner of the Crash Bandicoot IP via its acquisition of Activision Blizzard.
• Franchise Health: This adaptation underscores the enduring popularity and commercial viability of the Crash Bandicoot franchise following its successful revival in recent years.

What’s Next for the Wumpa Islands?

While details regarding the animation studio, showrunners, and potential release window remain undisclosed, the next steps will involve formal announcements from Netflix and Microsoft/Activision. Given the typical timeline for high-quality animated production, even if the project is confirmed soon, viewers should expect a substantial wait, likely extending into 2026 or beyond.

Industry focus will now shift to identifying the creative talent attached to the project, as the success of previous adaptations like Arcane hinged heavily on the quality and vision of the animation studio chosen to bring the game world to life.