Game: The Smurfs – Dreams
Genre: Adventure, Platformer
System: Nintendo Switch (also available on Steam (Windows), PS4 & PS5 & Xbox)
Developer|Publisher: Ocellus Studio | Microids
Age Rating: EU 7+ | US Everyone
Price: US $39.99 | UK £34.99 | EU € 39,99
Release Date: October 24th, 2024
A review code was provided, and many thanks to Home Run PR.
The Smurfs – Dreams: An Unexpected Platform Gem
The Smurfs is a long-running IP that I hadn’t paid much attention to since childhood. I briefly watched the animated show but found the constant Smurf-related puns a bit much, even as a kid. If you’re familiar with the show, you’ll know what I mean. Despite my lack of enthusiasm, the Smurfs have had continued success across films and video games for several console generations. When given the opportunity to review The Smurfs – Dreams, I wasn’t expecting much. I anticipated an okay experience at best, trying to imitate more popular games. However, Dreams turned out to be a surprisingly enjoyable platformer, whether you play solo or in a local co-op. If you’re looking for your next cosy platformer, I’d genuinely recommend checking it out.
Lost in a Dream
The story follows the familiar blue characters as they face off against their well-known villain, Gargamel. This time, Gargamel poisoned some local berries with a special brew that sent the Smurfs into a deep sleep. Papa Smurf, having avoided the potion, entrusts an unknown Smurf (you) with the task of entering the sleeping Smurfs’ dreams to wake them up before Gargamel captures you.
The story is presented through simple cutscenes with no dialogue, so if the Smurf puns annoyed you in the old cartoon, you’ll be relieved to know they’re completely absent here. Communication between characters is done through cute gestures, like waves. If you’re familiar with Smurf lore, you might appreciate small nods to the franchise, such as the appearance of specific characters or Smurfette’s two forms. But if this is your first dive into the world of the Smurfs, no prior knowledge is needed to enjoy the game’s simple premise.
Collectible Platforming
The Smurfs – Dreams can best be described as a collectable platformer. You can play as either a male or female Smurf. The game features several main levels, each consisting of three large stages and a boss fight, along with smaller, optional levels accessible from the main hub. As you explore each level, you’ll encounter enemies to defeat, platforms to navigate, and the occasional puzzle. Exploration is encouraged; stray from the usual isometric view, and you might discover hidden collectables. Your goal is to complete each level and wake the sleeping Smurfs. After waking a Smurf, you’ll return to Smurf Village, where you can wander around and see the Smurfs going about their day.
The controls are intuitive, making the game accessible to all audiences. The platforming is responsive, and there’s a helpful feature where a small circle appears beneath your character when you jump, showing exactly where you’ll land.
Taking Inspiration
The Smurfs – Dreams clearly draw inspiration from other popular games, particularly Super Mario Galaxy and the Yoshi series. The dreamlike setting evokes the same sense of wonder as Mario Galaxy. When transitioning between areas, you glide across a sandy path reminiscent of travelling through stars in the Galaxy. From the Yoshi games, Dreams borrows a strong focus on collectables, such as blue mushrooms that unlock new levels, coloured thread, and various berries used to unlock cosmetics. Your Smurf also has a glide-like ability, similar to Yoshi’s hover, but without the familiar sound effects.
Doing Its Own Thing
That’s not to say Dreams doesn’t have unique mechanics of its own. One of your abilities turns your Smurf into a bubble, though I found this rarely useful compared to the jump-and-glide combo, which suffices for most platforming needs. Occasionally, you’ll gain access to tools like a goop gun to stun enemies temporarily or a hammer to build or destroy blocks and smash enemies.
After completing the three stages of a main level, you’ll face a boss fight. To my surprise, these fights were quite challenging, requiring good timing and pattern recognition. While I died frequently, the game is generous with checkpoints during these encounters, which helps minimize frustration. One of the game’s biggest draws is the ability to play the entire campaign in local co-op, making it an excellent choice for playing with a loved one.
Dreamy Graphics
The graphics are, of course, charming and family-friendly. Each level takes place in a unique setting, ranging from candy-covered dreamscapes to lush forests, with designs reflecting the dreams of the Smurf you’re trying to wake. While some enemy designs and platforming elements do repeat, the game stays varied enough to remain engaging. A feature I particularly enjoyed was how the levels are populated with various Smurfs going about their day, often stopping to wave at you, which adds a cute, personal touch. Performance was solid in both TV and handheld modes.
Conclusion: Smurf-Tacular
The biggest surprise? I’m actually recommending a game about Smurfs. Whether you love or loathe the IP, there’s no denying The Smurfs – Dreams is a solid 3D platformer. While it borrows heavily from other games, there’s enough originality to make it worth checking out, especially for collectable platforming fans. The co-op mode adds to the appeal, making it a great option for playing with someone else. If you love platformers, I honestly recommend giving this a try, even if you’re not a Smurfs fan. I’m as surprised as anyone to say that! Still not convinced? Check out the free demo on the eShop.
Final Verdict: I Like it a Lot
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