By now, a new Smurfs game entering the market isn’t exactly cause to stop the press. In fact this is actually the fifth Smurfs game to launch since 2021. So with our little blue friends frequently popping up it would be easy to let this release just pass you by, but I’m writing this review because this particular entry does deserve more than just a second look. Developer Ocellus Studio has really put the work in, and the result is a platformer that stacks up in more ways than one.
VISUALS
One of the first things that stands out about The Smurfs: Dreams is its stunning visual presentation. The vibrant colours, detailed environments, and smooth animations caught my eye immediately as going in I honestly expected a much more budget look and feel. Each Smurf character is designed with care and attention, staying true to their iconic appearances while adding a fresh, modern twist. The game world is filled with lush forests, whimsical villages, and imaginative dreamscapes that are a joy to explore.
GAMEPLAY
This adventure features a blend of platforming, puzzle-solving, and exploration. The controls are intuitive and responsive, making it easy for players of all ages to pick up and enjoy. Initially I was a little concerned that that things may be too straight forward, but each level is thoughtfully designed, offering a good balance of challenge and accessibility.
The puzzles are cleverly integrated into the environments, requiring players to think creatively and sometimes chain multiple abilities together. Ocellus Studio has done a great job of introducing fun and inventive mechanics, with a bit of minor stealth even entering the mix. The game also features cooperative multiplayer, which allows friends and family to join forces and experience the adventure together.
STORY
The narrative of The Smurfs: Dreams revolves around Gargamel’s latest evil plot. This time he has poisoned some Smurfberry bushes, causing whoever eats a berry to fall into a deep slumber. Papa Smurf is too smart for this one though and he creates a special pillow to help rescue those in danger. You begin by creating a pretty generic looking male or female Smurf, but don’t fret, throughout your journey you’ll be able to customise it with some different outfits.
VALUE
Coming in at a very reasonable £34.99, the roughly 7 hour run time is both long enough to stop gamers feeling short changed while not outstaying its welcome. The collectibles are hidden well, meaning you will need to be eagle-eyed to pick up all five mushrooms and thread reel on a first attempt. This can also extend the lifespan of the game.
ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT
While the game overdelivers in most aspects, there are a few things that could be improved in a potential follow up. The hub area was a cool idea, but it ends up being massively under utilised. Additionally, while the game’s visual style is charming, the occasional graphical glitch or minor performance hiccup can momentarily disrupt the otherwise smooth experience. These issues, however, are relatively minor and do not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment of the game.
VERDICT
The Smurfs: Dreams is a delightful and heart warming game that successfully captures the magic of the Smurfs franchise. Its vibrant visuals, whimsical soundtrack and fun gameplay all combine to make the best Smurfs game to date in my opinion. Whether solo or with a friend, jump into the dream worlds, and embark on a magical journey. It’s a dream come true for any Smurf enthusiast!
-Mark
