Shield Crate

Lore & Background

Scattered throughout each level are various types of crates that can be broken open by jumping on them, spinning into them, or knocking a kicked enemy into them. Among these, crates displaying Aku Aku will grant Crash a floating Aku Aku mask that protects him from a single enemy or hazard. Collecting three masks consecutively grants Crash temporary invulnerability from all minor dangers. These crates are part of the game's design to help Crash traverse the 32 levels and defeat Doctor Neo Cortex.

In Their Own Story

As Crash navigates the archipelago, he encounters crates marked with the face of Aku Aku, the witch doctor spirit who acts as the guardian of the islands. Smashing one of these crates summons a floating mask that circles Crash, ready to absorb one hit from an enemy or hazard. If Crash collects three such masks in a row without taking damage, he becomes temporarily invulnerable to all minor dangers, allowing him to charge through obstacles that would otherwise stop him.

Reader's Guide

To utilize a Shield Crate effectively, locate crates displaying the Aku Aku icon within any level. Break them open by jumping on them, spinning into them, or knocking a kicked enemy into them. Once opened, Crash gains a floating Aku Aku mask that protects him from a single enemy or hazard. Collecting three masks consecutively grants temporary invulnerability from all minor dangers. Prioritize these crates when approaching dangerous sections, such as areas with rolling boulders or clusters of enemies. Note that the protection is lost after one hit unless three masks are collected, and the invulnerability from three masks is temporary. Do not waste this protection on safe sections where no threats are present.

Did You Know?

• The Shield Crate displays an icon of what it contains, specifically the Aku Aku mask.
• Collecting three Aku Aku masks consecutively grants Crash temporary invulnerability from all minor dangers.
• The Aku Aku mask is a witch doctor spirit who acts as the guardian of the islands in the game's story.
• Crash can break Shield Crates by jumping on them, spinning into them, or knocking a kicked enemy into them.
• The game features 32 levels where Shield Crates can be found.