Bluey The Videogame review

Bluey, the beloved Australian animated TV show, has captured the hearts of audiences across the globe. Its transition from small screen to the gaming world, however, has been met with anticipation and, as it turns out, a bit of disappointment. Bluey: The Videogame aims to bring the charm of the Heeler family's adventures to gamers, but does it manage to deliver the same level of joy as the series it's based on?

One cannot deny that Bluey: The Videogame excels in its visual representation. The game has a bright and beautiful 2D animation style of the show, delighting fans with characters and environments that are almost indistinguishable from the original series. The addition of voice acting from the original cast is another high point, enhancing the game's authenticity and the immersive experience it strives to offer.

Despite capturing the visual aesthetics of the show, the game falls short in its storytelling and content. With only four small maps and a story split into four short episodes, the adventure concludes quicker than one might hope, leaving players desiring more. The lack of iconic locales such as Hammerbarn or the school is notable, and the abrupt ending of the narrative gives a sense of incompletion. For a game with a hefty price tag, the scant offering serves as a stark contrast to the deep and rich storytelling of the TV series, making it hard to justify the cost.

Designed for co-op play, families might find moments of enjoyment in the world of Bluey, but those moments are often interrupted by clunky mechanics and tedious puzzles that revolve around moving furniture or rocks. The mini-games introduced in the episode, ranging from Keepy Uppy to Magic Xylophone, have potential.

The game’s multiplayer aspect, intended to be a focal point, often results in chaotic sessions where players battle over object interactions and platforming sequences that lack precision. With more than two players, the game’s issues become more pronounced, leading to frustration rather than family-friendly competition. The concept of bringing Bluey's imaginative play to gaming is commendable, but the execution sadly doesn’t capture the magic that could have been had.

In its essence, Bluey: The Videogame is a product of what seems like contractual necessity rather than innovative design. Designed to look like a fabulous TV show, it ends up offering little beyond shallow mini-games and a bafflingly brief gameplay experience marred by technical issues. It might visually transport fans into Bluey's world, but it fails to deliver the depth and engagement expected from a game at its price point.