Common Sense Media Review
By Mark Raby
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Middling mini-game collection with a Smurfs theme.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Play
Videos and Photos
The Smurfs
What's It About?
THE SMURFS is based on the 2011 movie of the same name, although the connection between the two is mostly superficial. The mini-games in this DS title are the crux of the game and the brief story sequences are incidental to the experience. Nevertheless, it does mirror the film's story of Smurfs getting stranded in New York City and finding a friendly human couple to aid them on their quest to return to their home village.
Is It Any Good?
THE SMURFS is a compilation of mini-games designed for younger players. Activities include coloring, making cakes, and putting together the perfect outfits for a party. For this audience, the game is satisfactory. There is nothing particularly special about the mini-games except for their inclusion of the Smurf characters and a rough tie-in to the theatrical movie. The collection of games is underwhelming, but the ones that are available are enjoyable. There is nothing notably bad about this title, but it doesn't do anything to set it apart from others of its ilk.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the role of video games in your kids lives. Do you pay attention to how often your kids play? Do you know what they are playing? Do you think it affects their development?
Families can also discuss what they liked or didn't like about this game. What was your favorite mini-game? Why does Gargamel interfere with the Smurfs' plan?
Game Details
- Platform : Nintendo DS
- Pricing structure :
- Available online? : Not available online
- Publisher : UbiSoft
- Release date : July 19, 2011
- Genre : Mini-games
- ESRB rating :
- Last updated : November 11, 2020
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