Computer Times
Editors' Choice DS Game
Build-A-Bear Workshop
Reviewed by Angie Kibiloski
The Build-A-Bear retail stores have become a phenomenon all over the world. There is something really appealing about customizing your own stuffed friend. Now you can bring home the delight of a Build-A-Bear friend on your Nintendo DS! Get all the fun of making your very own cuddly animal, over and over again, in the comfort of your own home. The Build-A-Bear Workshop game (Retail $29.99), from Game Factory, is more than just a digital version of the store experience. After you have built your teddy, or cat, or dog, or frog, there is so much more fun to be had with him!
To begin, you go through the same process as in a retail location. You choose your animal, give him a sound and a heart, stitch him up, give him a bath and fluff, pick an outfit, and name him. Then he is yours to take home, or in this case, take to his very own Cub Condo. This is the center of all further game activities. Here you can learn to cook different tasty treat recipes, play games in the yard, tidy up your pal's room, brush his teeth and fur, and play games. The games include musical chairs, a cooking game to test your memory of the recipes you learned, a dance competition, and a honey pot catch. As you play each game, more levels are unlocked. Also, each time you play you earn buttons that you can exchange for new outfits. After you have some spiffy new clothes, you can take pictures of your cuddly friend against a variety of backdrops. There is so much to do, you and your bear can be occupied for hours.
Build-A-Bear Workshop is great for children as young as preschool, with game and activities that are easy to pick up on and play. I would say that it could continue to entertain up through around age 10, give or take a year or so. Or, you know, even if you are just a kid at heart...I got quite a kick out of it! It is very cute, with an adorable variety of animals and clothing from which to choose. This is also a game that can be enjoyed many times over, because when you have made your way through all the game levels, and bought all the clothes with your furry friend, you can go back to the beginning and build a brand new friend for new play. So cute!