Bakery Simulator: Review

This game was reviewed on the Xbox Series X.

Reviewed by: David Cameron

Bakery Simulator, played on the Xbox Series X, is a delightful and engaging foray into the world of baking. Scoring a commendable 7 out of 10, this game offers an immersive experience that combines the intricate details of running a bakery with the satisfaction of crafting delicious pastries. Despite some areas needing improvement, Bakery Simulator is a solid addition to the simulation genre.

A Whiskful of Visual Charm

From the moment you start Bakery Simulator, it's clear that the developers poured a lot of love into the game's visual design. The environments are cosy and inviting, capturing the warm, homey feeling of a bustling bakery. The attention to detail is impressive, from the rustic ovens and countertops to the neatly arranged ingredients and utensils. Each bakery you work in has its unique charm, adding variety and keeping the experience fresh.

The pastries themselves are the stars of the show. The visual fidelity of the dough, icing, and various fillings is mouth-watering. Watching a loaf of bread rise or a batch of cookies turn golden brown in the oven is surprisingly satisfying. However, there are occasional graphical glitches, such as textures not loading correctly or items clipping through surfaces, which can break the immersion.

Mixing Gameplay with Realism

Bakery Simulator does an admirable job of blending realism with accessible gameplay. The core mechanics revolve around managing a bakery, from sourcing ingredients and following recipes to baking and selling your goods. Each task is designed to be both engaging and educational, giving players a taste of what it's like to run a bakery without overwhelming them with complexity.

The game features a variety of recipes, each with its own set of ingredients and steps. The process of mixing, kneading, baking, and decorating is detailed and requires precision, making it satisfying when you get it just right. However, the controls can sometimes feel a bit clunky, particularly when handling small items or navigating the kitchen. This minor frustration can be exacerbated during timed challenges, where precision is key.

Flourishing Through Progression

One of the game's strengths is its progression system. As you complete orders and satisfy customers, you earn money and reputation points. These can be used to upgrade your equipment, expand your bakery, and unlock new recipes. This sense of growth and progression keeps the gameplay loop engaging and gives players a reason to keep coming back.

Customizing your bakery is another fun aspect, allowing you to personalize the space to reflect your style. Whether you prefer a quaint, old-fashioned bakery or a sleek, modern setup, the customization options provide a good amount of flexibility. However, the game could benefit from more variety in both the equipment and décor options to further enhance this aspect.

Wholesome Audio Experience

The audio design in Bakery Simulator complements the visual charm. The ambient sounds of a bakery – the hum of ovens, the clinking of utensils, and the bustling atmosphere – create an immersive environment. The background music is pleasant and unobtrusive, adding to the relaxing vibe of the game.

However, the game lacks voice acting, which could have added more personality to the characters and interactions. Text-based dialogues work fine but can sometimes feel impersonal. More dynamic audio cues and reactions from customers would also enhance the overall experience.

Room for Improvement

While Bakery Simulator has a lot to offer, there are areas where it falls short. The controls, as mentioned earlier, can be finicky and require refinement. Navigating the kitchen and handling ingredients should feel smoother to avoid frustration during gameplay.

The game's pacing can also be an issue. While the initial stages are engaging, the middle part can feel repetitive as you work through similar tasks. Introducing more varied challenges or events could help maintain interest. Additionally, the tutorial could be more comprehensive, as some players might find themselves confused by the more intricate mechanics.

Final Verdict

Bakery Simulator is a delightful simulation game that successfully captures the essence of running a bakery. Its charming visuals, detailed gameplay, and satisfying progression system make it an enjoyable experience for fans of the genre. However, the game's finicky controls and occasional repetition prevent it from reaching its full potential.

Scoring a solid 7 out of 10, Bakery Simulator is a game worth playing for those who enjoy simulation games and have a passion for baking. With some tweaks and additions, it could easily rise to the top of the genre. For now, it's a tasty treat that offers plenty of fun, even if it's not entirely perfect. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice looking to try your hand at virtual baking, Bakery Simulator has something to offer. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and get ready to bake up a storm!

Reviewed by: David Cameron