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The Smurfs: Dreams continues my obsession with this spectacular franchise. I have played every modern Smurf title and I have Smurfing loved every one. Accordingly, when I knew this was on the horizon, I couldn’t wait to get started. Spoiler alert, it didn’t disappoint and my kids loved it as well! Though this isn’t too easy for younger gamers, children aged 7+ can tackle the platforming elements. However, some challenging moments may need your assistance. Consequently, you may need to be on call to help out.
This 3D platform adventure title was developed by Ocellus Studio and published by Microids. Moreover, it can be enjoyed alone or cooperatively from one screen. Though I didn’t test the latter aspect, I imagine it’ll be a great way to tackle each level. The solo gameplay evolves nicely and I felt that the end game elements were more challenging for adult gamers. Thankfully, the opening stages offer enough to entertain you and provide a gentle learning curve for less experienced players.
The Smurfs: Dreams tells a surreal tale.
Gargamel doesn’t know when to quit. This evil wizard has hatched another scheme to capture every Smurf. His cowardly plan involves a curse and the Smurfs’ favourite bushes. Yet, he doesn’t think about the bravery of a standalone Smurf and this is his downfall. The unnamed hero must enter a dream world and wake every trapped Smurf. If they cannot succeed, the Smurf universe is over and Gargamel will finally get his way.
I love a great fantasy tale and this one was captivating. The strange surreal settings were eye-catching and weird. Furthermore, they highlight key elements of each Smurf’s personality. As such, if you follow the TV show, you will enjoy the extra layers of lore and the added depth. If you are not a massive fan, this matters not. You’ll enjoy the gameplay as it unfolds even if you don’t understand the little Easter eggs.
Balanced gameplay.
The Smurfs: Dreams focuses on platforming basics and some interesting puzzles. Moreover, there are special tools to unlock that change your approach. You can arm yourself with a magical hammer to smash blocks and build new platforms. Alternatively, there is a sticky gun to stop fans and activate switches. Finally, a magical lamp reveals hidden paths and this creates a mind-bending reality.
As you explore each level you must grab fruit to unlock new costumes and find magical mushrooms to unlock new dreams. On top of this, a Smurf is hidden in plain sight. If you can find this sneaky individual, you can unlock more costumes to customise your character. These basic ideas were great as they forced you to explore each stage thoroughly. Moreover, it was rewarding when you found each item.
The game is broken down into minor character dreams and story-progressing quests. Though each idea uses the same core mechanics, the latter option is longer and more challenging. This was great as it gives you something to get your teeth into. The minor dreams were great fun and my kids particularly enjoyed the short sharp levels. Subsequently, there is a nice balance between casual and more hardcore stages.
The Smurfs: Dreams looks great.
The developer has made The Smurfs: Dreams an aesthetically pleasing game. Each world has an airy feel that is magical and unusual. Furthermore, as the game progresses, things turn darker and more sinister. This was perfect as it reminded me of an old-school fairy tale. Luckily though, it isn’t too grim for younger children and I wasn’t worried about gaming-induced nightmares. The level design was clever and I was reminded of the SEGA classic, World of Illusion. The dreamy state and clever perspective-shifting ideas keep you on your toes and make sure you are entertained thoroughly.
The audio was a glorious blend of drama and fear. What’s more, there are some repetitive themes that should have been tiresome, but they weren’t. I loved the familiar sound clips as you knew what was coming. Moreover, it made it easier for my kids to understand each objective without an explanation. On top of this, the sound effects were enjoyable and there wasn’t too much Smurfy language.
Excellent controls.
Tight and responsive controls keep you on the straight and narrow. Additionally, the easy-to-understand control layout was ideal for inexperienced gamers. Thankfully, the simple mechanics were rudimentary and this complemented every core mechanic. This sounds like the game is too easy to play, but it isn’t. Instead, the developers have got the balance just right and the game challenges you as each layer evolves.
Where The Smurfs: Dreams falls short is its replay value. Unfortunately, you only get around 10 hours of gameplay. This was a little short for my liking. However, it can be extended if you search for every collectable or you grab a teammate and relive every level. Luckily the first playthrough is good and this ensures that I wasn’t too disappointed.
The Smurfs: Dreams is a great addition to the franchise.
Though The Smurfs: Dreams wasn’t as long as I hoped, I enjoyed every moment. What’s more, my kids loved the colourful dreams and the glorious audio. Alongside this, the controls were easy to master and I adored the plot. Accordingly, it is a great addition to the franchise and I recommend buying it here! Can you save every Smurf in the village? Jump into each dream, help every Smurf, and thwart Gargamel.
