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Smurfs Kart is a family-focused affair. Moreover, it is gloriously safe for younger gamers. As such, it is perfect if you wish to let your children game whilst you get on with other tasks. Alternatively, maybe they are obsessed with the Smurfs and want to lose themselves in the whimsy and colourful world.
This straightforward racing title was developed by Eden Games and published by Microids. What’s more, it explores some well-known locations whilst letting you control many of the much-loved characters. Accordingly, it is perfect for hardcore fans or those who wish to get into the racing genre.
Smurfs Kart concentrates on racing and little else.
It didn’t surprise me that Smurfs Kart lacked a central plot. However, I was a little disappointed not to experience a Smurfing story. It would have been pleasant to have a smattering of context for each level. Instead, you simply race aimlessly around each track. Accordingly, once you complete every tournament, there is little reason to return.
The action takes place over 12 unique tracks. Each location winds around key areas within the Smurfs’ world. As such, you’ll explore the village, the forest, Gargamel’s house, and more. On top of this, you can choose from 12 unique characters. Each racer has a special skill that can make or break your tournament. Therefore, picking the right Smurf for the job is easier said than done.
Keep on racing.
Though there are limited races and only a handful of tournaments, there is still some depth. Thankfully, you can challenge each Smurf on their home track. The Time Challenge mode pushes you to your limits as you try to beat the leading time.
Driving a personal best wouldn’t be easy if it wasn’t for the shortcuts and power-ups on offer. Furthermore, there are special Smurf berries to collect that boost your speed. Like Mario Kart or Blaze and the Monster Machines, you pick up special items from boxes. The contents of each container vary and you can be rewarded with attack or defensive items.
Alongside the familiar but fun crates, you’ll find speed traps to boost your top speed and shortcuts to get a head start. These were great as they break up the gameplay whilst making you explore every inch of each level. Moreover, they are designed in such a way that younger players can utilise them as well. This was an excellent choice as it made the action balanced and inclusive.
Smurfs Kart wasn’t as polished as I expected.
When I read about Smurfs Kart, I expected it to be a polished and refined title. Instead, I was disappointed by the rudimentary finish and the lack of polish. However, my kids didn’t seem to mind as they enjoyed the vivid colour palette and the varied character models. What’s more, the racing was smooth, and the animation worked incredibly well. Accordingly, though it lacks a modern touch, it worked well nonetheless.
The audio was on par with the visuals. Unfortunately, it didn’t blow me away, but it was suitable. Additionally, the weapon sound effects were interesting, loud, and suitable for the genre. I expected more clichéd Smurf one-liners, but this didn’t materialise. Consequently, I felt the developers missed an opportunity.
Child-friendly controls.
If you are a parent, you know the joys and problems with kid-focused games. If the action is too complicated, your children lose focus and give up. However, if it is too simple; they tire easily of what they are playing. Thankfully, though, Smurfs Kart balances this problem perfectly. If you so wish, you can alter the assist level to help you out. Accordingly, you can let the computer control both the steering and acceleration. Alternatively, you can select one of those options or turn them off altogether. As such, it creates a balanced approach.
My kids adored this title. In fact, they didn’t want to put it down. I, on the other hand, tired of it quite quickly. Unfortunately, the action lacked any real depth, and I found it to be too easy. Yet, Smurfs Kart isn’t aimed at an adult audience. Therefore, as my kids wanted to play it repeatedly, I’d say it has both replay value and longevity.
Smurfs Kart gets the balance just right.
Smurfs Kart isn’t the most original title. However, its gameplay gets the balance just right. Not only does it have excellent accessibility settings, but it doesn’t outstay its welcome either. Consequently, your kids will lap up its fast and colourful action. Therefore, if you have kids who love the genre, I recommend that you buy it here! Can you win every race and become a Smurfing champion? Pick a Smurf, utilise every power-up, and win every race.
