Bluey The Videogame

Bluey: The Videogame emerged as a medium through which fans could connect with the cherished Australian animated series, known for its warmth and wittiness. The weekend of its release coincides with a celebration of the top 100 Bluey episodes, which only serves to heighten expectations for the game. As a title that mirrors the aesthetics of the beloved TV show, Bluey: The Videogame is a dive into the heartwarming universe of the Heeler family — but does it do justice to the richness of Bluey's world?

Pawsitively Vibrant Visuals

Bluey: The Videogame impresses with its faithful replication of the series' vibrant 2D animation style. The transition to 2.5D spaces in its four available environments — the Heeler home, the backyard, the playground, the creek, and the beach — retains the charm without conflicting with the show's trademark aesthetic. Players can revel in the comforting familiarity of the characters, thanks to the original cast's voice work contributing to the game's authenticity.

A Short-lived Excursion

The heart of the experience, the gameplay, however, leaves much to be desired. Despite the endearing setup that follows Bluey and Bingo on a holiday treasure hunt initiated by their father, Bandit, players are met with a disappointingly fleeting journey. With only four modestly-sized maps and a narrative that concludes abruptly, the game feels like a missed opportunity to explore the rich Bluey universe more thoroughly. Gameplay mechanics, such as puzzle-solving and platforming, suffer from a lack of precision and finesse, often leading to player frustration.

Disconnected Co-op Conundrums

While the intention to provide a shared family experience is commendable, the cooperative mode introduced hurdles instead of harmony. Issues such as character immobility, tricky interactions with objects, and a cluttered progression for larger player groups disrupt the gameplay flow. Minigames within the episodes, although varying in concept, nosedive in execution, with glitches, underwhelming mechanics, and oversimplified challenges undermining their addiction.

Verdict – A Bumpy Road with Bluey

Wrapping up, Bluey: The Videogame seems like an opportunity that falls short of expectations. The game exquisitely captures the visual flair of the series, yet it fails to support that beauty with substantial content and polished gameplay. For those deeply enamored with the Heelers, there might be a flicker of joy in seeing their favorite characters in a new medium. However, for the broader audience and gamers looking for a rich and rewarding experience, sadly, the game settles into the category of another forgettable commercial venture.