Summary
- The Smurfs: Dreams is an underrated PS5 local co-op game inspired by Super Mario, offering a fun 2-player adventure.
- The game features engaging platforming and avoids some pitfalls that other local co-op games suffer.
- Smurfs: Dreams is also available on PC, PS4, Switch, and Xbox consoles.
2024's The Smurfs: Dreams is a surprisingly solid local co-op game that PlayStation 5 owners looking for a fresh co-op game to play should definitely check out. The PlayStation 5 is home to all kinds of fantastic local co-op gaming experiences, ranging from newer games to older titles playable on the new hardware thanks to its backward compatibility with the PS4. Those with a PlayStation Plus Premium subscription can also play a selection of PS1, PS2, PS3, and PSP games, some of which also offer local co-op support.
The rise of online gaming has seen local multiplayer and co-op fall to the wayside somewhat, but there are still plenty of high-quality new local co-op games released on the latest consoles. There have been some great local co-op PS5 games released over the years, but one from 2024 has flown under the radar somewhat.
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2024's The Smurfs: Dreams is an underrated local co-op game that hasn't gotten the attention it deserves. I imagine that the game being a licensed product, and one based on The Smurfs at that, has led to many people dismissing it, but those that give it a chance will find one of the better co-op games of 2024. The Smurfs: Dreams offers 2-player local co-op throughout the entire adventure, and the game itself is a lot better than many would expect.
The Smurfs: Dreams is A Lot of Fun in Local Co-Op
The Smurfs: Dreams wears its inspirations on its sleeve. It takes cues from games like Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario 3D World, replicating that style of 3D platforming but with a Smurfs twist. While the levels are all fairly straight-forward platforming affairs where players jump on enemies, clear platforming obstacles, and find collectibles, things are kept fresh through the regular introduction of new gadgets and gimmicks.
As far as local co-op platformers go, The Smurfs: Dreams is actually one of the better ones on the market. It avoids a lot of the pitfalls that similar games suffer by not being overly strict with the camera in a way that screws over the second player, and it generally goes out of its way to make sure Player 1 isn't getting preferential treatment. This is reflected in nice touches like the costume system, with The Smurfs: Dreams remembering the second player's skin choice instead of forcing them to re-select every time. The only misstep is that The Smurfs: Dreams doesn't let the second player unlock achievements or trophies, but otherwise it's definitely one of the smoother local co-op platformers I've played.
The game looks nice, plays great, and is a ton of fun in local co-op. And it's available on more platforms than just the PS5. Those interested in the game should note that The Smurfs: Dreams is also available on PS4, Xbox consoles, Switch, and PC, making it easily accessible to local co-op gamers regardless of their platform of choice.
- Released
- October 24, 2024
- ESRB
- E For Everyone // Mild Fantasy Violence
- Developer(s)
- Ocellus Studio
- Publisher(s)
- Microids
- Multiplayer
- Local Co-Op
WHERE TO PLAY
Gargamel has devised a new evil scheme to catch the Smurfs! He casted a cunning curse on the sarsaparilla bushes, causing a deep slumber across the Smurfs after they eat the delicious leaves.
Embark on a dreamlike quest to awaken all the Smurfs before the evil Gargamel reaches the village! Experience a thrilling yet unpredictable journey: in the dreamworld, anything is possible and excitement can quickly turn into a nightmare...
Alone or with a friend, discover enchanting locations and explore the dreams of your favorite Smurfs. Each dream is a unique adventure, with smurfingly exciting challenges and mind-boggling puzzles. Imagination comes to life in this fully immersive and magical 3D platformer.
- Solo or with a friend?
Prevent Gargamel's evil plans from suceeding, alone or with a friend for a smurfabulous 2-player experience
- Dive headfirst into other Smurfs' dreams
Visit unique and vibrant worlds as you hop from dream to dream, and discover all of the Smurf Village's secrets
- Embark on the Smurfs' imagination
Each dream hides a nightmare - help the Smurfs overcoming their fears through puzzles, boss fights and many other surprises
- A Smurf like you
Collect magic orbs and patterns to customize your Smurf
- Jump, hop and dash
Use your movements and tools to overcome the many challenges dreamt by the Smurfs
- Franchise
- The Smurfs
- Platform(s)
- Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One
- Genre(s)
- Platformer, Adventure
