It’s not very often that I get the chance to play video games, let alone video games that I think the kids would like but one day I checked my emails and noticed there was a call out for people interesting in checking out a new title: The Smurfs Dreams. Available now since October 24, 2024 on PS4, PS4 and Xbox (One, Series S and X), Nintendo Switch, and even the PC (via Steam, Microsoft, Epic and others).
The Smurfs: Dreams
Gargamel is at it again, plotting to capture the Smurfs with his latest wicked scheme. This time, he’s cast a sneaky spell on the beloved sarsaparilla bushes, the Smurfs’ favourite snack, sending the entire village into a deep sleep. Now, it’s up to you to journey through a dreamlike world, waking the Smurfs before Gargamel closes in on the village. This adventure will take you on a thrilling ride where surprises lurk around every corner—because in the realm of dreams, excitement can suddenly turn into mystery and danger.
The fate of Smurf Village is in your hands. Prepare for a journey that stretches the limits of your imagination!
Features
Solo or Co-op – This is what first brought my attention to the game. I have three children and I am always on the look out for games that we can play together and with the Co-op mode we can do just that.
Smurfs’ Imagination – You progress through the game in a variety of dreams. Each dream has a theme with it;s own set of accessories, puzzles and surprises.
Characters – Collect the magic orbs to awaken every sleeping Smurf to bring the Smurf Village back to life. You can unlock new clothing patterns to customize your Smurf throughout their journey.
Magical Artistic Direction – Each dream or stage has colourful and artistic styles you will fall in love with. The game looks great on our PlayStation 4.
First Impressions
It’s been a while since I’ve turned on the PS4, a but longer than I thought that two of our three kids didn’t remember that we even had it. It has always sat next to our TV. Because of the lack of playing on the PS4 there were a few updates I had to do and then fumbled around with getting the second controller linked properly, after all I was interested in the Co-op mode of this game.
I popped over to the Playstation store, entered the redeeming code for the game (big thanks to HomeRun PR and Microids for giving me the opportunity to check out the game and play with my kids). The game downloaded and was ready to go in no-time!
The Smurfs Dreams is a 3D platformer. Think of it like a Super Mario Bros game where you move around an area interacting with the environment while trying to solve puzzles to continue on. I had the kids watch the introduction cut-scene which can be seen above in the Trailer I posted earlier and had to explain to them who Gargamel and the Smurfs were (am I getting old?). Anyway, instantly they were fascinated with the world they dropped into. I even got to see Smurfs I recognized too (like Papa Smurf, Jokey Smurf, Smurfette etc), bringing back the nostalgia of the cartoon show for me.
The Controls
Now my kids aren’t used to the PlayStation controllers but it didn’t take them entirely too long to get the hang of it. My middle daughter (she’s 8) had a little difficulty trying hitting X and holding Square, which surprised me because the 6 year old was able to eventually do it (with some help).
Movement is fluid as you move around the environment. If you are playing Co-op and one player goes to the edge, they will eventually be sucked out of the world and placed into a jar that the other player can carry around (without any hindrance) which helped when I played with our littlest.
The button combinations weren’t too intense, at least for the first portion of the game we played. The only combination we had to use so far was the pressing of X and then holding down Square to stay floating in the air. You could combine that with another press of X I think and it would sort of jump zoom them a bit further.
The Puzzles
Now, I haven’t played the game extensively (it’s hard to find time to play games these days) but the puzzles in the first dream area were not too difficult and were fun (for me anyway).
There were times where the younger kids needed help or direction but the more they did it the more they could do on their own and the more they would discover new puzzles and solve them too. It’s nice when a game makes you think about where you need to go, what is blocking you and how to over come it. There is definitely enough to keep someone entertained.
Who Will Enjoy It?
The Smurfs Dreams feels like it’s made for everyone. The vibrant visuals draw you into each dream world, creating an immersive experience that keeps you engaged. It’s also fun to interact with the various Smurfs you encounter, whether you’re saying “hello” or receiving a helpful item.
I appreciated that the game offers both Solo and Co-op modes, making it versatile for different play styles. My kids (ages 11, 8, and 6) each enjoyed different aspects of the game, and the fact that they regularly ask me to join in when I have time has been a great bonus. It’s rare to find a game that we can play together without me constantly explaining things or having to carry them through the tougher parts.
Fans of the classic Smurfs cartoon will especially appreciate the familiar characters, which brought back a lot of nostalgia for me. It’s a game that both new and long-time fans of the Smurfs can enjoy together.
Conclusion
I’m really glad I had the opportunity to play The Smurfs Dreams. The addition of a Co-op mode is a huge bonus—it’s great to be able to jump in with one of my kids or let them take turns playing together. After all, who wants to sit and watch someone play a Solo game for too long?
The game’s visuals are stunning, with vibrant colours and beautifully detailed artwork that keeps you immersed in each themed world. The attention to detail, both obvious and hidden, makes exploration even more engaging.
The controls are simple and intuitive, making it easy for those who aren’t used to using a controller, like the PS4, to get the hang of it quickly.
One feature I hope to see in the future is the ability to switch seamlessly between Solo and Co-op modes during gameplay. It would be fantastic to have the option for someone to join or drop out without starting a new game. I’ve reached out to the developers about this, but I haven’t heard back yet.
If you’re on the hunt for a new game that the kids will enjoy—and one that allows for multiplayer fun—I highly recommend The Smurfs Dreams. It’s available now on all major platforms, both as a retail edition and for digital download.
PS4 and PS5: https://store.playstation.com/en-us/concept/10010426
Xbox Series X and S and One: https://www.xbox.com/en-US/games/store/the-smurfs-dreams/9NZZHZVGFW8D
Nintendo Switch: https://www.nintendo.com/en-ca/store/products/the-smurfs-dreams-switch/?srsltid=AfmBOooNw8qtL4R90LW9K5t96T85hI75Ccm3Imcsn8RTyV7PedJGKut6
Steam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/2602020/The_Smurfs__Dreams/