I love crash bandicoot. I've played the original trilogy, as well as wrath of cortex, Twinsanity, and all of the racing games. I think that crash 4 tops all of these and then some. This game is platforming at its finest and I can't recommend it enough. It can be frustrating at times, but it made me want to play the game even more. The level themes always kept me engaged and the bandicoot battle mode was a blast. I played it with my brother for hours. What I'm trying to say is that crash 4 is a game you need to play. It is a bit pricey if you just go through the story and that's it. Although, if you want to complete it, you will be entertained for hours on end. Buy this game. It will make you smile from start to end.
Update:
I have recently finished the main story and have to say, it was really sad. This game was amazing and I didn't want it to end. The final dimension in 1996 was awesome and a real challenge but it wasn't nearly as hard as people are making it out to be. I did die 52 times in the final level but it felt so good to overcome that hurtle. The final boss was fantastic as well. Overall, I had a ton of fun with this game. I probably won't get all of the time trial relics though.