In a world where screen time is often a contentious topic for parents, the release of LEGO Party! on the Nintendo Switch offers a refreshing take on family gaming. This new title promises fast-paced minigames, vibrant worlds, and laughter-filled competition, making it a potential hit for families everywhere.
As a mother of three boys, I was eager to see if LEGO Party! could captivate children of varying ages, withstand the chaos of playdates, and still manage to engage adults. With its launch, the game has certainly caught the attention of families looking for quality entertainment.
Exploring the World of LEGO Party!
LEGO Party! boasts an impressive lineup of 60 minigames, allowing players to dive into wild Challenge Zones inspired by beloved LEGO themes such as Pirates, Space, and NINJAGO. The game supports up to four players and offers cross-platform play, ensuring that friends and family can join the fun no matter where they are.
The anticipation was palpable when I handed the game to my 10-year-old and 8-year-old, along with their friends. After several gaming sessions, the verdict was clear: LEGO Party! is a resounding success, and I am now officially a “cool mum.”
What Works and What Falls Short
From a family-gaming perspective, LEGO Party! shines in several areas. Its fast-paced variety of minigames keeps kids engaged, encourages participation, and subtly teaches social skills such as patience, sportsmanship, and teamwork. The local multiplayer mode, in particular, fosters genuine family connections, transforming ordinary evenings into shared adventures.
However, the game is not without its limitations. Older or highly competitive players may find themselves craving more depth and challenge. While the online mode exists, it lacks the same excitement as the couch co-op experience. Additionally, some onscreen instructions could be clearer, which might require younger players to seek help from parents or older siblings.
Learning Through Play
Observing my children play, I noticed several valuable lessons hidden within the fun. The game teaches patience as children learn to wait for their turn and navigate brief loading times. It also encourages strategic thinking, as players make decisions about movement and path choices without feeling like they are in a classroom.
The in-game commentators add a layer of humor, keeping the atmosphere lively and reducing the need for parental intervention. Moreover, the minigames often allow players to make directional choices, giving children a sense of agency and control over their gaming experience.
Customization and Ease of Play
Character creation is a standout feature, with children spending ample time designing their minifigures. This customization aspect extends engagement beyond the game rounds, as players take pride in their creations. The ability for multiple players to choose the same character also prevents disputes, unlike the heated debates often seen during Monopoly nights.
The controls are intuitive, and on-screen prompts are clear, allowing children to learn quickly and play without frustration. This ease of use reassures parents and enables adults to join in the fun without a steep learning curve, making family gaming sessions enjoyable for everyone involved.
The Verdict: A Worthwhile Addition
LEGO Party! excels in local multiplayer mode, delivering a shared, joyful experience filled with cheering, competition, and laughter. While the online play is adequate, it doesn’t capture the same energy as playing together in the same room. For families seeking connection and entertainment, couch co-op is where the game truly shines.
For families with children aged 6 to 12, especially those who are LEGO enthusiasts or enjoy friendly competition, LEGO Party! is a valuable addition to any Switch library. It offers accessibility, creativity, and fast-paced fun that keeps kids coming back for more. Although not every minigame is perfect, and online play isn’t its strongest feature, the game provides something more meaningful: a genuine shared experience.
With school holidays approaching, LEGO Party! is poised to become a staple of family gaming nights and rainy afternoons. Ready to add it to your collection? LEGO Party! is available at Target for $75, offering screen time that parents can feel good about.
