Common Sense Media Review
By Fernanda Camargo
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Energetic show immerses viewers in gaming and teamwork.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 5+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Press Start!
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
Siblings Sunny and Rue unlock an immersive game mode where they go inside their favorite video game and play alongside their heroes to save Animal Town from the Viking villain.
Is It Any Good?
Many shows tried to replicate the video game experience for older kids, but this one targets the early elementary audience delivering much more than 8 bits of excitement. From cool power-ups to niche lingo, Press Start! doesn't spend time familiarizing viewers with its universe; it assumes some understanding of video game principles and tropes. But it also takes established concepts and redefines them into positive messages. Sunny and Rue are experienced players, but being in the game is different, so they must relearn to play. A lesson from Mom, "You must play together, or it's game over," emphasizes the need for teamwork for success. The only downside is that it may encourage kids to spend even more time playing games.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the use of video games in this show. Sunny and Rue are avid players, and this new power-up makes them want to play even more. Do you think there should be limits to the amount of time one can play video games per day?
While a lot of games require competition, Rue and Sunny work best when they're together. Why do you think that is?
TV Details
- Premiere date : November 21, 2024
- Cast : Elishia Perosa , Mela Pietropaolo , Natasha Chandel , Adam Nurada
- Network : Peacock
- Genre : Kids' Animation
- Topics : Adventures , Book Characters , Family Stories ( Siblings )
- Character Strengths : Teamwork
- TV rating :
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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