Catboy, Owlette and Gekko make the heroic leap from the PJ Masks animated television series to video game adaptation in PJ Masks: Heroes of the Night. Featuring eight locations such as the city, park, mountains and even the moon across 16 stages, the mighty pyjama suit-wearing mini heroes bring their powers and their wits to thwart the dastardly plans of Romeo, Luna Girl and Night Ninja.

With collectibles to find, obstacles to overcome and baddies to stop, the PJ Masks need our help to go into the night to save the day!

Each of the 16 stages open with a vehicle based sequence that tasks players with simply avoiding obstacles and collecting optional glowing gems. Driving, flying or navigating underwater trenches is simple and there are no ways to fail these sequences, or any part of a stage for that matter.

With no health bars, no gaps to fall in to or any form of combat, PJ Masks: Heroes of the Night is all about accessibility throughout the adventure. This approach allows the youngest of players to be able to enjoy the experience without the pressures of defeat.

Once the initial vehicle sequence has been completed each of the three PJ Masks take turns as the playable character throughout every stage. Making each of three heroes playable in each stage goes a long way in establishing a more balanced connection to the game for fans of the animated series.

Certain sections of each stage call upon the player to use special abilities by correctly selecting the character appropriate symbol that is displayed on screen. Catboy has super speed which can be used to bypass electric fences and for instance, Owlette can use her wings to blow smoke out of the way and Gekko can turn invisible to avoid detection and bypass threats.

Catboy brings a double-jump ability to the table that allows him to reach higher platforms, Owlette can use her wings to fly through predetermined sections of levels and Gekko can crawl up or down walls.

Each of these abilities are particularly useful for players looking to collect the 200 gems present in each stage and the three amulets that are hidden for each character. Collecting these awards a statue upon completion of the stage with Bronze, Silver and Gold rankings awarded based on the number collected.

Alternating the playable characters throughout each stage is a great way to introduce alternating mechanics to keep the gameplay exciting for younger players throughout the 10-15 minutes each stage will take to complete if exploring for all of the collectibles. The brevity and simplicity of the missions makes PJ Masks: Heroes of the Night accessible and easy to play in shorter sessions.

The end of each mission brings the PJ Masks face to face with the baddies in a confrontation that requires each of the characters to unleash an attack based on the singular on screen prompt for each hero. In line with the remainder of the experience there is no way to fail these sequences, rather the player is able to retry until they press the correct button.

PJ Masks: Heroes of the Nights serves as a playful introduction to the side-scrolling platformer genre for younger players and the implementation of basic driving/flying sequences are a great way to ease them into multi-genre experiences.

The visuals are a charming and faithful representation of the animated series this title is adapted from. From the characters, environmental art direction and stage design the 16 stages feel authentic and light in tone, and with the accompanying energetic score and frequent control dialogue the overall presentation is very beginner friendly and accessible to the target audience.

PJ Masks: Heroes of the Night has been developed with the youngest of players in mind and is a great adaptation of the animated series they will likely be familiar with. It’s fun, simple and charming, introducing basic ideas and genre elements into a light tale of good guys and bad guys that avoids any overly sinister tones or themes that may alienate young players.

+ Simple gameplay

+ Elements of multiple genres

+ Faithful presentation to the source material

+ Short stage structure

– Collecting gems in driving/flying sequences may challenge young players

– Music cuts out during cinematics often

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The post PJ Masks: Heroes of the Night Review first appeared on Games of DAYNE.

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;

Website | YouTube | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram |

The post OG Unwrapped 2021 – Outright Games Digital Showcase first appeared on Games of DAYNE.

Platforms: Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch and PC

PJ Masks: Heroes of the Night is easily the title that had me the most excited heading into OG Unwrapped. I have found myself pleasantly surprised with how much I have enjoyed the show on Netflix since my two sons started watching it.

The official synopsis for PJ Masks: Heroes of the Night reads;

“Who goes into the night to save the day? You do! Get your PJs on and become Catboy, Owlette, and Gekko in the most exciting PJ Masks game yet. Set off from Mission Control HQ on a platforming adventure for little heroes. Use your superpowers – like Catboy’s speed, Owlette’s flying, and Gekko’s muscles – to stop the night-time baddies. And explore eight PJ Masks locations, from Mystery Mountain all the way to Moon! With PJ Robot’s help, you’ll discover a world of friendship, teamwork, and hidden collectibles. Can you save the world from Romeo, Luna Girl, and Night Ninja?”

I got to play as each of the three characters in the demo and found myself platforming, flying and crawling up and down walls. The side-scrolling perspective works well for the playful art design and appropriately keeps things simple.

There were plenty of things to collect, masks to find and light puzzles to solve using the special abilities of each of the characters. There’s enough variety to keep things from being too simple but not too much to overwhelm younger players.

The adventurous score accompanied the cute and charming visuals, providing an authentic presentation that seamlessly recreates the vibe of the TV series. It looks and sounds as fun as it plays, even at my age (which is at least triple that of the target audience), I found it endearing and enjoyable.

Coming in with the expectations I had, I can safely say I was not disappointed and I look forward to the full release PJ Masks: Heroes of the Night and getting the kids into it as well.

To keep up with everything Outright Games you can follow them at the links below;

Website | YouTube | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram |

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