On what date did Crash Bandicoot first release in North America?

Crash Bandicoot first released in North America on September 9, 1996. Developed by Naughty Dog and published by Sony Computer Entertainment, it was designed as a 3D platformer to give the original PlayStation a distinctive mascot character.

The game follows Crash, a genetically enhanced bandicoot escaping Doctor Neo Cortex and attempting to rescue Tawna. Its behind-the-character camera, colorful island environments, crate-smashing, spinning attack, and demanding jumps helped distinguish it from other platformers of the era.

A common mix-up is November 8, 1996, which was the European release date. Japan received the game later, on December 6, 1996, after Naughty Dog and Sony made several changes to its presentation for that market.

The North American launch began a major PlayStation series. The sequel, Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back, followed in 1997, while the original eventually sold more than six million copies worldwide.