Unlocking Crash Bandicoot 3’s Secret Ending: A Complete Guide
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
So, you’re chasing that coveted 105% completion in Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped and want to see the secret ending? You’ve come to the right place! The path to that extra slice of cinematic goodness involves dedication, skill, and a little bit of patience. Here’s exactly what you need to do: To achieve the secret ending, you need to collect all 45 gems and obtain at least a sapphire relic on all 30 time trial levels and then beat the final boss. These relics will also unlock secret levels with additional gems.
The Road to 105%: A Step-by-Step Guide
Unlocking the secret ending in Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped isn’t just about beating the game; it’s about mastering it. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you need to do:
1. Crystal Clear Collecting
First and foremost, you need to collect all 25 Crystals. These are found in every standard level of the game. They’re usually pretty straightforward to obtain – simply reach the end of each level. No special requirements here, just good old-fashioned platforming.
2. Gem-tastic Gathering
This is where things get a little more complex. You need to amass all 45 Gems. These are obtained in several ways:
- Clear Gems: These are awarded for smashing every crate in a level. You’ll know you’ve done it when a gem appears at the end instead of the usual “Level Complete!” sign. Some of these are hidden well, so explore thoroughly!
- Colored Gems: These are found in secret areas. Some are accessed using coloured platforms in the hub world. Others require special pathways within levels. Make sure to collect these gems.
- Secret Level Gems: Some gems are exclusively found in the secret levels, accessible through hidden exits in specific levels. Getting all of these gems is crucial.
3. Time Trial Triumph
Prepare for a challenge! You’ll need to complete all 30 time trials and earn at least a Sapphire Relic on each. Gold and Platinum relics are even better, but Sapphire is the minimum requirement for the secret ending. These time trials test your speedrunning skills and knowledge of each level.
- Relic Requirements: Earning the required relics on all of the time trials is essential to unlock all 45 Gems. You will also need to refight the final boss to trigger the complete ending.
- Time Manipulation: Learning to use the Time Warp power-ups effectively is critical for achieving the best relic times.
4. Secret Levels Unlocked
The Time Trials aren’t just about bragging rights. Collecting enough relics unlocks the Secret Warp Room, granting access to additional challenging levels containing more gems and crates. Collecting these gems is vital to get to the ending.
5. Mastering Secret Exits
Crash 3 is full of secrets. Certain levels have secret exits that lead to bonus areas or even entirely new levels. Finding these requires exploration and often utilizing colored gems to activate hidden paths.
- Dino Might Exit: Before the dinosaur egg you can activate the yellow gem path. The secret exit is found on this yellow gem path.
6. Facing Cortex (Again!)
Once you’ve obtained all the crystals, gems, and relics, it’s time to face Dr. Neo Cortex one last time. Beat him again, and you’ll be treated to the extended ending that shows the full consequences of your actions (and Cortex’s failures).
7. The Sweet Reward: 105%
This ending doesn’t just give you extra cutscenes. Earning the 105% completion signifies true mastery of Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped and unlocks everything the game has to offer.
Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped Secret Ending FAQs
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to help you on your journey to the secret ending.
1. What exactly is the “secret ending” in Crash 3?
It’s an extended ending cutscene that plays after you defeat Dr. Neo Cortex, but only if you’ve achieved 105% completion. It provides a more comprehensive wrap-up of the story and shows more of the aftermath of your victory.
2. Is it difficult to get 105% in Crash 3?
Compared to the first Crash Bandicoot, Warped is generally considered easier to 100% (or in this case, 105%). However, it still requires dedication and skill, especially when it comes to the Time Trials.
3. How many gems are there in Crash Bandicoot 3?
There are 45 Gems in total: 25 Clear Gems and 5 Colored Gems. And there are 15 gems from the secret levels.
4. How do I access the secret levels in Crash Bandicoot 3?
You need to collect Relics in the Time Trials. Collecting 5 Relics unlocks a platform in the hub world that leads to the Secret Warp Room. Also make sure to find any secret exits in specific levels.
5. Which levels have secret exits?
The levels with secret exits include Dino Might and Hang Em High.
6. Where do I find the colored gems?
Colored Gems have specific locations within certain levels or secret areas. Here are some examples:
- Blue Gem: Found in “Tomb Time.”
- Red Gem: Found in a secret path in “Air Crash.”
- Green Gem: Found in “Hang ‘Em High.”
- Yellow Gem: Found in the secret level accessed through “Hang ‘Em High” with 10 relics.
- Purple Gem: Found at the end of the death route in “High Time”.
7. What’s the easiest way to get relics?
Practice each level extensively to learn the layout and crate placements. Use the speed shoes wisely, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different routes. Getting the time trial relics can be difficult, but the result of the secret ending is rewarding.
8. Do I need Platinum relics for the secret ending?
No, you only need Sapphire Relics (or better) on all the Time Trials to achieve 105%. Platinum Relics are for bragging rights and a higher completion percentage shown on the save file.
9. How do I know if I’ve smashed all the crates in a level?
If you’ve broken every crate, you’ll receive a Gem at the end of the level instead of the usual “Level Complete” message. There will be a gem on the floor.
10. What’s the deal with the “Death Route” in some levels?
These are special sections of a level that are only accessible if you reach them without dying. They often contain extra crates and lead to gems.
11. How does Coco factor into getting the secret ending?
While Coco is a playable character in some levels, she doesn’t directly impact your ability to get the secret ending. You need to complete the levels where she is playable. Her levels contribute to your overall progress.
12. What is the secret level Hot Coco?
Hot Coco is a secret level in Warped, it is accessed by hitting an alien sign in Road Crash. Completing this is necessary to get all the gems.
13. Are there any cheat codes to make getting 105% easier?
The original Crash Bandicoot 3 had cheat codes, but these are disabled in the N. Sane Trilogy. You’ll have to earn your 105% the honest way! Sadly the cheat codes of old can not be used in Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy on PS4, Xbox One, Switch, or PC.
14. What happens if I miss a single crate in a level?
You won’t get the gem for that level. You’ll need to replay it and find the missing crate(s). Use the Aku Aku masks!
15. Is there a specific order I should do the Time Trials in?
There’s no set order, but it’s often helpful to start with the easier levels to build confidence and learn the basics of speedrunning. Save the trickier levels for later, once you’ve mastered the game’s mechanics.
Beyond the Game: Learning Through Play
Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped is more than just a fun platformer; it encourages problem-solving, strategic thinking, and perseverance. Achieving 105% completion requires a dedication to mastering the game’s mechanics, learning level layouts, and optimizing your performance. These skills translate well into other areas of life, highlighting the potential for Games Learning Society to play a valuable role in education and personal development. For more information on the intersection of games and learning, check out the GamesLearningSociety.org website.
So, go forth, collect those crystals, smash those crates, and conquer those time trials. The secret ending and bragging rights await! Good luck, and have fun!