‘Yoshi’s Crafted World’ the perfect two player experience

After starting out as a rideable sidekick to Mario in 1990’s “Super Mario World,” Yoshi quickly gained immense popularity. He was so popular, in fact, that the sequel to “Super Mario World” was simply titled “Yoshi’s Island.”

Ever since then, Yoshi has starred in a number of games, each of them boasting a unique art style and family-friendly gameplay. This has given the loveable dinosaur a bit of a reputation of being only for children. Does Yoshi’s newest adventure, “Yoshi’s Crafted World,” break this stigma?

One day, while lounging around on Yoshi’s Island, the Yoshi are attacked by the wizard Kamek and Baby Bowser. The two attempt to steal the Sundream Stone, an artifact said to grant wishes that is powered by five gems. During the scuffle, the Yoshi are thrown are thrown off the island into unknown territory, with the gems scattering across the world. In order to stop Kamek and Baby Bowser from gathering the gems and using them for evil, the Yoshi set out to find all five stones and return them to Yoshi’s Island.

As far as visuals and graphics go, it’s easy to see why someone might assume “Yoshi’s Crafted World” is for children. This isn’t a bad thing, however; it’s just that the game is adorable!

Everything in the game is made out of some form of craft and could feasibly be made in real life. A majority of the characters featured in the game are made out of felt, resembling plush toys. All of the environments are made out of cardboard, string, or some other craft, making the game feel very realistic without photorealistic graphics.

The game also features one of the most chill and adorable soundtracks I have heard in recent memory. Combined with the adorable visuals, it’s almost impossible not to smile while playing.

Yoshi controls incredibly well, with a playstyle that veteran Yoshi players will quickly recognize. While not being the easiest thing I have ever played, “Yoshi’s Crafted World” is pretty forgiving. While you can die and get a “game over,” the only punishment is having to start the level over. If this proves to be too difficult, there is an easy mode where you can grow wings and basically fly over everything. Even with these handicaps, I still found the game difficult enough to be enjoyable.

The best way to play “Yoshi’s Crafted World” is with another person. The game features a two-player mode which is an absolute blast. While the game isn’t necessarily “for kids,” it is the perfect game to play with younger siblings or anyone who doesn’t normally play games. Adding a second player into the mix allows more experienced gamers to play with the less experienced and make sure everyone still has a good time.

Overall, “Yoshi’s Crafted World” is a great game. While it isn’t much of a challenge, the game provides fun platforming in a world that is a joy to explore. Adding in a stellar soundtrack and adorable visuals, “Yoshi’s Crafted World” is a very fun experience.

Whether you are a hardcore gamer looking to turn things down a notch or someone who has barely even touched a video game, chances are you’ll have a great time with this one.

8/10