Review: Barbie Project Friendship

Initial release date: October 25, 2024

Genres: Simulation video game, Action game, Casual game, Adventure

Developers: Casual Brothers Limited, Xaloc Studios

Platforms: PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X and Series S

Publisher: Outright Games

Growing up, I was a fan of Action Man and other 1980s boys’ toys. As a result, Barbie was not on my agenda. However, after over 40 years, my house is full of every Barbie imaginable. As a result, when Barbie Project Friendship was revealed, my three daughters shouted with excitement! Their enthusiasm was palpable, and my expression of dread must have been comical. Yet here I am, delving into the moralistic and high-energy world of plastic dolls.

Casual Brothers Ltd developed this 3D adventure game, which was published by Outright Games. Furthermore, it is a single-player and cooperative game filled with corny one-liners, love, and an uneasy sensation of doing the right thing. This vivid and straightforward game is geared toward a younger demographic. As a result, the action is elementary, and adults will frown frequently. Additionally, the simple fetch missions and mountains of basic quick-time events will not challenge experienced gamers. However, none of this mattered because my children were captivated by the simple design and vibrant universe.

Barbie Project Friendship is very nice.

Call me cynical, but I don’t believe that love, friendship, and turning the other cheek will make the world better. However, these points serve as the cornerstone for Barbie Project Friendship. As a result, it is so sickly sweet that it makes me want to puke. This feel-good vibe pervades every part of the game. However, the tale and characters are brimming with niceties and a gravity-defying moral compass.

The Barbies are taking a journey down memory lane. As they approach a renowned Malibu landmark, the Malibu Waves Community Center, they recognize something is awry. This once-beautiful location is in disrepair, and someone has threatened to close it permanently. However, these passionate females will not be deterred by something as trivial as hard work. Instead, they enlist the support of their friends to reopen the beach, workshop, camping area, arcade, and Amphitheatre.

A huge story using basic principles.

Though the plot and setting are epic, the mechanics and essential concepts are weak. The gameplay consists primarily of fetch tasks and some simple quick-time events. In addition, there are some unique “Overcooked”-style minigames and rhythm-based action to keep you entertained. Each of these concepts was simple by design, which was appropriate for their intended audience.

Fortunately, the superb tutorials explained every detail. As a result, your children can play this with less supervision. However, the absence of direction for each fundamental objective was aggravating. It was difficult to run around every small space looking for a person or thing. My children never got tired of searching, and I observed as they strolled aimlessly around each location.

The fundamental connecting tasks advanced the tale beautifully. In addition, the introduction of new characters kept the action interesting. As a result, the game moves at a good pace, and while it wasn’t very deep or difficult, it kept my children engaged throughout.

Barbie Project Friendship lacked polish.

Barbie Project Friendship is colorful and features a diversified stage design. However, it lacks polish, and the character models are a tad bland to look at. Furthermore, the animation was subpar, and I detected numerous visual errors. Fortunately, none of these issues had an influence on the gameplay, and my children were unconcerned about the flaws.

The audio sounded like nails on a blackboard. Every soundbite and repeated phrase caused me to bite my lip. I’m not sure why the Barbies sighed when they wanted to complete each duty. Despite their happiness, they continued to sound annoyed. With this unusual architectural quirk to one side, the music is peppy and the story is well-told. Though it wasn’t my cup of tea, it fits well with the subject.

This is something that children will quickly master.

The developer has done an excellent job with their controls. Every duty is clearly defined, and the gameplay flows smoothly as a result. Furthermore, the tutorials clarify what is required, and the responsive inputs guide you in the right way. My only concern is the absence of sprint functionality. Unfortunately, the protagonist saunters everywhere, which drove me crazy.

The replay value is at rock bottom. Barbie Project Friendship contains a few collectibles, as well as costumes and decorative accessories that may be unlocked. However, once you have done this and accomplished all missions, there are few reasons to return. Thankfully, you can return to play the mini-games if you want, and I’m sure my girls will do so again.

Barbie Project Friendship is perfect for doll-loving kids.

If your youngster enjoys Barbie or a vibrant and energetic universe, they will adore this game. The simplistic approach was ideal for younger gamers, and there was nothing objectionable in sight. The absence of foul language and violence was refreshing, and I loved the straightforward controls and detailed instructions. As a result, even though it drove me crazy, my daughters cherished every second. As a result, I propose you buy it here! Can you save this popular Malibu landmark? Explore the community center, seek for assistance, and fight against the odds.

Review Overview

Gameplay: 78%

Controls: 83%

Aesthetics: 88%

Content: 76%

Accessibility: 85%

Value: 80%

Overall: 82%

GOOD!

Summary:

Barbie Project Friendship shines as a cheerful, bright game about friendship and fun activities set in the Barbie universe. It’s created with younger players in mind, with simple controls and visually appealing settings that encourage creativity and collaboration. Though its gameplay is simple and may grow tedious for adult players, it effectively captures the Barbie charm and provides a decent experience for children. With manageable chores and encouraging content, Project Friendship is a welcome addition for Barbie lovers looking for an optimistic, relaxing journey.