Care Bears To The Rescue PlayStation 5 Review

Summary

Care Bears To The Rescue features charming cartoon graphics and a manageable download size of 693.86MB. The game supports Steam achievements and full controller support, making it accessible to a wide range of players. With three save slots and basic graphics settings for resolution, players can easily manage their progress. The platformer gameplay is complemented by a world map level selection, and the animated cutscenes are presented in the same style as the in-game graphics. The game supports a four-player local co-op, allowing friends and family to join in the fun. Players can choose from five initial characters—Grumpy Bear, Cheer Bear, Share Bear, Good Luck Bear, and Fun Shine Bear—each with a unique ability. Tutorial pop-ups guide players as they collect stars and find hidden stickers throughout the levels. The HUD is clear and easy to read, and each Care Bear has a special belly power to use against enemies or interact with the environment.

The game includes hidden areas to discover and the ability to interact with other Care Bears for assistance. Enemies can be avoided or turned back from evil using belly power, and mid-level checkpoints ensure players don’t lose too much progress upon death. The controls are simple and easy to learn, making it a great game for younger gamers who are new to platformers. The 2D game world is enhanced by detailed backdrops, and players can unlock and play through five different worlds, each with its boss encounters. If players lose all their hearts, they simply respawn at the last checkpoint, and the game features fast loading times to keep the action moving. Players can also drive vehicles and participate in various events, adding variety to the gameplay.

However, Care Bears To The Rescue has its drawbacks. The game lacks actual graphics settings and the ability to remap controls, which can be limiting for some players. There is no voice work, with all dialogue presented through speech bubbles, which may disappoint fans expecting more immersive audio. The level design is very basic, and the music and general atmosphere feel flat. The game does not provide good feedback on the damage dealt to enemies, and players must rely on the game to determine if their belly power hits the target. The gameplay primarily involves collecting stars and using belly power, which can feel repetitive. The power bar depletes as players use belly power, but this mechanic seems redundant. Additionally, the game offers no replay value, challenges, or difficulty settings, and some levels, particularly boss battles, can feel rushed.

In summary, Care Bears To The Rescue is a visually appealing platformer with simple controls and a variety of characters, making it suitable for younger gamers. While it has some technical limitations and lacks depth in its gameplay and audio, the game’s charming graphics and accessible mechanics provide an enjoyable experience for fans of the Care Bears franchise. The game’s strengths lie in its cooperative play, clear HUD, and fast loading times, but it may not satisfy players looking for a more challenging or immersive platformer.