On Wednesday September 8 I had the privilege to participate in the OG Unwrapped digital event, hosted by Outright Games and Swipe Right PR. As a substitute to a physical, in person showcase, OG Unwrapped 2021 put six games on display, five of which were playable, hands-on demos. Running for two days, an exclusive group of lucky content creators and members of the media were able to see what Outright Games has in store for the backend of 2021.
For those unfamiliar with Outright Games, they have playfully dominated the licenced and family friendly title space in recent years with a publishing catalogue of some of the most beloved franchises in children’s television. Titles such as Adventure Time, Ben 10, PAW Patrol, Gigantosaurus, Trollhunters and Ice Age are just the tip of their publishing iceberg. YouTube child sensation Ryan from Ryan’s World, the recent iterations of Jumanji and even the iconic Transformers also have the Outright Games stamp in recent years.
Outright Games have curated a portfolio of powerhouse licences that have been adapted into experiences that can be enjoyed and made accessible to younger players while also remaining enjoyable for parents or older players. The first word that comes to mind when I think of Outright Games is ‘family’, and by publishing titles that in most cases can be played co-operatively, are inspired by beloved franchises and are developed with the most casual of accessibility and gameplay options, these titles offer a little of something to everyone.
Below you can find a brief overview of the titles from the event and a link to my full write-up for each, in order of their release dates.
PAW Patrol the Movie: Adventure City Calls
Developed by Drakhar Studio | Release Date: August 13 2021
Platforms: Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch and PC
Hands-On Demo – 30 minutes
This is the only title of the showcase that has released, albeit recently. It is a tie-in of the film PAW Patrol: The Movie that released in cinemas August 21. This marked the third PAW Patrol title to be published by Outright Games and was developed by Drakhar Studio, who also published the previous entry, PAW Patrol: Mighty Pups Save Adventure Bay.
Drakhar Studio are also developing the upcoming Hotel Transylvania: Scary-Tale Adventures, to be published by Outright Games, which was absent from this presentation.
My full review of PAW Patrol the Movie: Adventure City Calls can be found HERE. I reviewed this title prior to this event.
The Addams Family: Mansion Mayhem
Developed by PHL Collective | Release Date: September 24 2021
Platforms: Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch and PC
Hands-On Demo – 30 minutes
Inspired by the 2019 animated film, and its upcoming sequel, The Addams Family: Mansion Mayhem utilises a similar art design that allows for a greater connection between players who have seen the film. This title is a 3D platforming adventure full of exciting minigames that can be played alone or co-operatively with up to three other players, each taking the role of Gomez, Morticia, Pugsley and Wednesday.
PHL Collective previously developed Ben 10: Power Trip, published by Outright Games.
My thoughts, screenshots, and trailer of The Addams Family: Mansion Mayhem can be found HERE.
Blaze and the Monster Machines: Axle City Racers
Developed by 3D Clouds | Release Date: October 1 2021
Platforms: Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch and PC
Hands-On Demo – 30 minutes
Blaze and the Monster Machines is a CGI-animated show that premiered on Nickelodeon back in 2014. Led by the monster truck and driver tag-team of Blaze and AJ respectively, this kart racer can be played alone or in 4-player split-screen.
3D Clouds are no strangers to developing titles to be published by Outright Games. The development team are responsible for 2019’s Race with Ryan and are also developing Fast & Furious Spy Racer: Rise of SH1FT3R.
My thoughts, screenshots, and trailer of Blaze and the Monster Machines: Axle City Racers can be found HERE.
My Friend Peppa Pig
Developed by Petoons Studio | Release Date: October 22 2021
Platforms: Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch and PC
Hands-On Demo – 30 minutes
One of the most beloved children’s shows in recent years is being adapted by Petoons Studio. My Friend Peppa Pig is a fun-filled adventure full of activities, character customisation and the playful charm that’s made the television series a smash hit for years.
Petoons Studio are also developing the upcoming PJ Masks: Heroes of the Night.
My thoughts, screenshots, and trailer of My Friend Peppa Pig can be found HERE.
PJ Masks: Heroes of the Night
Developed by Petoons Studio | Release Date: October 29 2021
Platforms: Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch and PC
Hands-On Demo – 30 minutes
Based on the popular animated show that premiered in 2015, PJ Masks: Heroes of the Night puts players in the roles of Catboy, Owlette and Gekko in the platforming adventure that takes place in familiar locations.
Also charged with the development of My Friend Peppa Pig, Petoons Studio are tackling TWO of the most popular children’s shows. It’s no small feat but from my hands-on experience with both, these beloved properties are in capable hands.
My thoughts, screenshots, and trailer of PJ Masks: Heroes of the Night can be found HERE.
Fast & Furious Spy Racers: Rise of SH1FT3R
Developed by 3D Clouds | Release Date: November 5 2021
Platforms: Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch and PC
Hands-Off Demo
This was the only title in the show that was hands-off, with the game being showcased with commentary and a Q&A from members of Swipe Right, Outright Games and the development team from 3D Clouds.
Inspired by the animated Netflix series, Fast & Furious Spy Racers, Rise of SH1FT3R exhumes a visual flair and engaging style that is certain to appeal for audiences of all ages.
3D Clouds are also developing the upcoming Blaze and the Monster Machines: Axle City Racers.
My thoughts, screenshots, and trailer of Fast & Furious Spy Racers: Rise of SH1FT3R can be found HERE.
This was my first digital showcase and I couldn’t be happier that it was one for Outright Games. Their catalogue of titles are yet to disappoint, even as a 30 year old player, each one has managed to trigger the child within that still enjoys the simple, accessible and relaxing experiences Outright Games can deliver. As I have introduced my 3 and 5 year old sons, Hunter and Lachlan, to video games, these titles are fast becoming a staple at Games of DAYNE HQ, offering a vast array of family-friendly experiences that we can share together, either playing co-operatively, taking turns, or watching each other.
As a father, I can’t stress enough how great the value of titles published by Outright Games are in terms of fun and simple experiences for the kids. With almost every title recognisable with their television counterparts, most available on Netflix or other accessible streaming services, these are great gateway gaming introductions.
As a 3o year old gamer, I am still pleasantly surprised with how much I am able to enjoy these games. There’s something so relaxing and enjoyable about being able to kick back, switch off a little bit and simply play a game that isn’t constantly asking me to react with instinct or challenge me in some capacity. The Xbox Achievement Hunter in me also enjoys the achievement lists as they aren’t remotely taxing or time-consuming.
Outright Games tick the children, parent, gamer and Achievement/Trophy hunter boxes with flying colours. With the great experiences I’ve had in the past and present, and with the opportunity to play some of what’s to come in the very near future, I can’t wait to play the titles from this event in full and I’m even more excited for the surprises that are inevitably cooking away.
To keep up with everything Outright Games you can follow them at the links below;
