PAW Patrol: Dino World is a brand-new game from the PAW Patrol franchise that is partially based on the upcoming movie. While the story does not directly take from the movie’s script, it is set in the same world and features characters similar to those in the upcoming movie. At its core, this is still a standard PAW Patrol game, but with a prehistoric flavour.
What I had hoped for was some connection to the movie, or at least some sort of explanation, but the game just starts abruptly on Dino Island, where the movie is also set. The series antagonist, Mayor Humdinger, is here as well, leading to all sorts of problems for the locals, including the dinosaurs. There is another threat in the form of a volcano that could wipe out the dino population. As usual, the PAW Patrol team makes it their duty to save the residents of Dino Island. They team up with dinosaur specialist Rex and explore the island step by step, solving its problems.
The game is divided into four distinct zones where players can complete a variety of missions and help the locals. Every pup in the game has a unique skill that can only be used by them, putting the focus on teamwork to solve the problems that come their way. Narratively, it is as paper-thin as expected, with the main appeal once again being the prehistoric theme and dinosaurs. This is a game made solely for kids who do not have much experience playing games, and in that sense, it is relatively easy, with simple missions.
What I liked was that the game also supports co-op, although I only tested it partially. There is no large area to explore aside from the zones, which offer different biomes. The roster of pups is once again kid-friendly, with fan favourites such as Chase, Marshall, Rubble, Skye, Rocky, and Zuma. The game makes a point of rotating between the pups to solve tasks or help the dinosaur locals. However, the interaction is usually limited, with the gameplay revolving around simple quick-time events dressed up as minigames.
The optional side content feels barebones, requiring players to perform repetitive tasks such as hatching dinosaur eggs or finding various collectibles. The visuals are quite simple and look very PS4-like, despite playing the game on a PS5. There is not much to add in terms of visuals. The character and NPC models look fine, while the world lacks the level of detail you would normally find in a bigger-budget platformer.
As I was not the target audience for it, I mainly played it with my kid, who really enjoyed the simple controls and minigames. The dinosaur theme works well for those who love the Jurassic franchise, and while the movie is not out yet, I bet kids will love exploring the game and its world once the movie arrives later in August. I feel like it is one of the better PAW Patrol-themed games.
While the game is simple and can be fun for kids, it does suffer from repetition, and the camera controls can be a bit erratic. It is a smartly budgeted title aimed at PAW Patrol fans as well as those who are interested in the upcoming movie. If your kid is a fan of the franchise, this is a good game to get, in my opinion. However, if you are simply looking for a decent platformer, this is not going to be it.
PAW Patrol: Dino World Game Information
- Price: $39.99
- Publisher: Outright Games
- Developer: 3DClouds
- Platform: PS5 (Reviewed)
- Disclaimer: A review code was given by the publisher
