Nostalgia from dreams: Meet the new Smurfs game – "The Smurfs Dreams"

The video game "The Smurfs: Dreams", developed by Ocellus Studio, offers a magical and imaginative platforming experience based on the Smurfs' world. The game is available on a wide range of platforms (PC, Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch). While it is primarily aimed at children and families, it is sure to catch the eye of older gamers like me who grew up with the stories of Jokey, Papa Smurf, Gargamel, and Azrael.

The game takes place in a surreal dream world, where the Smurfs are trapped due to a spell cast by Gargamel on their food. Players take on the role of an unnamed Smurf tasked with rescuing their friends and freeing them from their dreams. The plot combines elements from Smurfs mythology with new stories.

The gameplay is very light and smooth, ensuring it doesn’t cause much frustration for children. It blends platforming mechanics with the ability to attack enemies using jumps or by collecting special tools like hammers, bombs, and a sticky gun. The game also includes puzzle-solving, hidden paths, and an exploration element. Among its modes is a co-op option, allowing players to enjoy the game with a friend or family member.

Throughout the story, beyond the regular progression in the plot, players can discover side dreams, solve short challenges, and earn rewards like unique costumes. Ultimately, the game manages to balance a simple approach suitable for children with challenges that provide interest for adults who choose to join in.

Visually, the game looks excellent, resembling a modern animated TV series. As with the original series, it’s clear that the visual design—featuring colorful and detailed environments that vary between sweet dreams and darker ones—will appeal to younger audiences.

The game’s soundtrack also deserves praise for blending dramatic elements with a lighthearted tone, making it suitable for a family-friendly game. However, two issues bothered me. The first, and most important in my opinion, is the lack of voice acting for our beloved childhood characters.

The second is the game’s length—its relatively low level of difficulty means it can be completed in a fairly short amount of time. Nevertheless, despite its short duration, it offers a unique experience that is recommended for Smurfs fans and families looking for a shared gaming experience.

The game copy was provided by Adli United, the official distributor of the game in Israel.