Not the Spyro we once knew.
For starters, Spyro is raised by a family of dragonflies. He's also been raised to think that he is a big dragonfly. Nothing wrong with that. Honestly. Sparx also talks. I would say it's a nice addition but unfortunately after listening to David Spade's voice too much, it because rather annoying. Seriously. The so-called being "witty" is rather sarcastic. The music is also boring too. It can remind you of something like Lord of the Rings. Nothing catchy like in the original Spyro. The new character design of Spyro is also a tad bit ugly. But that's my opinion. You can use fire, just like in the other Spyro games. Also, there is the new melee attacks that does get repetitive. Really repetitive to the point that it'll make you go crazy. The enemy you fight the most are baboons. The same baboon. Over & over again. Not gem collecting either. There is about 4 levels, from what I can remember. Short ones, as a matter of fact.
On a last note, this game does not have much of a replay value to it. Another thing, if you're new to Spyro, I highly suggest playing the original three games first. Then, rent this game or ask someone to borrow it. Next, decide if you want to buy this game then.