Nintendo DS Game Review: “Pillow Pets”

Pillow Pets

Developer: Game Mill

Released: October 18, 2011

ABOUT:

Pillow Pets DS is an interactive game based on the characters and products of the cute, huggable and fun toy line. The game’s narrative is designed to be simple and accessible. The story takes place in the wonderful world of Dreamland, which is the land where Pillow Pets go while children sleep. The player has the challenge of finding Pillow Pets who have been stuck in Dreamland, and returns them to their room, gradually populating their room with one of every type of pet. Pillow Pets! – Players can unlock and collect up to 16 Pillow Pets for play. Each pet includes adorable and hilarious animations in both pet and pillow modes! 16 Expansive Levels across 4 Unique Environments- Gameplay outside the Kids Room hub world expands into three unique regions (Fantasy Woods, Rainbow Valley and Slumber Land Castle). Each level features colorful and exciting graphics that encourage exploration. Accessible Exploration Gameplay – Side perspective platform gameplay has proven to be very effective for younger audiences. The player can immerse themselves in areas filled with interactive objects and hidden secrets without the pressure of belligerent AI or hazards. Endless Customization – Hats, capes, glasses, and shoes are but some of the many customizable accessories that can be unlocked and worn by the various pets. The game will feature 40 un-lockable accessories. Frequent Rewards – Nearly all game actions reward the player, either with animation and sound or with new content. Each outing into the world yields a tangible reward.

Even though we actually don’t have any Pillow Pets, my boys loved this game.  They are just getting into Nintendo DS games and Pillow Pets seems perfect for young kids getting started.  Starting off the game is quite easy and my 4 year old was able to do most by himself.  The goal is to find the other Pillow Pets throughout the levels.  There are no bad guys to fight or ways you can die.  It is a game that wants you to succeed which is great for young kids who may get frustrated easy.  The beginning levels like I said are easy and took me basically seconds to complete, while the later levels are a little bit more challenging g but it is just like a game of hide and seek for the Pillow Pets and items.  There is also some reading on the screen but my son was able to figure it out and played next to me so I could read what the screen says to him.

Once you find the Pillow Pet you can name it or keep the assigned name.  Then by finding additional items in each level you earn accessories to dress up your Pillow Pet.  Right now I have one with a blue Mohawk and glasses!

I will say too that I admit I thought this game would be totally cheesy and dumb, but my boys love it and I love that it is a game they can play.  There is no crying because they died and they are figuring out how to maneuver in the game pretty quickly.  The screen also shows you which button or arrow to push to do different things (like jump or fly.)  Overall, the game is very cute and a great game for young boys and girls.

BUY IT: Look for “Pillow Pets” wherever video games are sold or check it out online.

Mom and More Disclosure: I was sent this game to review in exchange for my honest opinion. Please see my Disclosure Policy.