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LEGO Fans Gift Guide

Gaming Chickadee — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 15:04:00 +0000

LEGO is well known for their building sets but they also have some games too! If you’re a fan of LEGO or know someone who is, this gift guide will help you with the perfect LEGO themed gifts!

LEGO Video Games

LEGO has several video games, including:

You can also but level packs for LEGO Dimensions like Sonic the Hedgehog Level Pack for example.

Sonic Superstars also had DLC which include LEGO version of Sonic, Tails, Knuckles and Amy!

LEGO Sonic The Hedgehog

LEGOs and Sonic together is a great combination! All these sets listed below are great for both kinds of fans.

LEGO Super Mario

Mario also has LEGOs! You can interacted with them via the app as well. Below is a list of some of my favorite Mario LEGOs!

LEGO Friends

LEGO Friends is one of the series included with LEGO. In my opinion the sets are adorable!

LEGO Animal Crossing

If you like the game Animal Crossing: New Horizons, then you’ll love these LEGO set themed after the game!

3 in 1 LEGOs

These set include 3 different things you can build with the same bricks!

Other fun LEGOs!

I hope my gift guide helps!

LEGO Fans Gift Guide brought to you by Gaming Chickadee

Chickadee loves to have family gaming days. She loves birds, unicorns, ponies She also likes the Nancy Drew Games. She loves to play as Princess Daisy in the Super Mario Games, Her favorite games change a lot but right they are: Mario Party Superstars, Super Mario Bros. Wonder and Pretty Princess Magical Garden Island.

Strawberry Shortcake: Berry Besties Bake Off -Game Review

Gaming Chickadee — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 10:34:15 +0000

We love Strawberry Short cake and so we just had to add Strawberry Shortcake: Berry Besties Bake Off Card Game to our collection of family games. In the game you collect cards to work toward completing your strawberry short cake. In my review of the game you can learn more!

Plus, It’s adorable!

Why Strawberry Shortcake: Berry Besties Bake Off?

Strawberry Shortcake: Berry Besties Bake Off is a cute and cheerful card game that brings the colorful world of Strawberry Shortcake to the tabletop. With its adorable characters, baking theme, and simple gameplay, it is a game that is easy to pick up and enjoy with family and friends. We think it is a cute and fun family game, especially for players who already love Strawberry Shortcake and her friends.

One of the biggest things that makes this game appealing is its theme. Strawberry Shortcake is a franchise that has always been associated with friendship, baking, colorful characters, and sweet treats, so a baking-themed card game feels like a natural fit. The artwork and character designs help give the game a bright and playful personality. Even before starting the game, the cards make it feel like you’re getting ready for a fun baking competition with Strawberry Shortcake and the Berry Besties.

The basic idea of a bake-off is also a great choice for a family card game. Instead of having a complicated story or a huge number of rules to memorize, the game revolves around collecting and playing cards as players work toward completing their objectives. This makes it relatively easy for younger players to understand while still giving everyone something to think about during their turn.

One of the things we like most about Berry Besties Bake Off is how approachable it feels. Family games can sometimes be frustrating when the rules are too complicated or when younger players have trouble keeping up. This game has a much more relaxed feeling. Once everyone understands the basic rules, it can get going quickly, making it a good choice for a family game night.

The card format also makes the game convenient. Unlike large board games that require a lot of table space, a card game can generally be set up and put away quickly. This makes Berry Besties Bake Off a nice option when you want to play something without spending a long time preparing everything.

Another strength is the social aspect. A family card game isn’t just about winning; it’s also about spending time together. The bake-off theme gives everyone a shared activity to participate in, and the colorful Strawberry Shortcake setting makes the experience feel lighthearted. We think this is particularly appealing for families who enjoy games where everyone can laugh, talk, and enjoy themselves rather than taking the competition too seriously.

The game can also appeal to fans of Strawberry Shortcake who enjoy collecting character-themed games and merchandise. Getting to see familiar characters represented on the cards adds a nostalgic and enjoyable element for longtime fans while also introducing younger players to the characters.

However, Berry Besties Bake Off does have some drawbacks.

Replay value may also depend on the people playing. Once players become familiar with the cards and understand the best ways to approach the game, some rounds may begin to feel predictable. Having different strategies and a little randomness helps, but players looking for a game with endless strategic possibilities may eventually want something more advanced.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Cute and colorful Strawberry Shortcake theme
Fun baking and bake-off concept
Easy to learn and play
Great choice for family game nights
Friendly and lighthearted atmosphere
Features familiar Strawberry Shortcake characters
Quick and convenient card-game format
Doesn’t require a large amount of table space
Good choice for younger players and families
Encourages spending time together
We think it’s a cute and fun family game

Cons

May be too simple for experienced card-game players
Replay value may decrease after many games
Limited strategic depth compared with more complex games
Players unfamiliar with Strawberry Shortcake may not be as interested
Some players may prefer games with a longer or more involved experience

Summary

Strawberry Shortcake: Berry Besties Bake Off is a sweet and enjoyable family card game that succeeds because it doesn’t try to be overly complicated. It takes the charming Strawberry Shortcake world and combines it with a fun baking competition theme, creating an experience that is colorful, approachable, and easy to enjoy.

We think it is a cute and fun family game that works particularly well when everyone wants something relaxing and entertaining. It may not provide the deep strategy that serious card-game fans are looking for, but that’s not really the point. Its greatest strength is its accessibility and cheerful presentation.

The game is especially appealing to Strawberry Shortcake fans because the familiar characters and adorable artwork make the experience feel like stepping into their world. The bake-off theme is a natural fit for the franchise, and the card-game format makes it easy to bring out for a quick game night.

Overall, Strawberry Shortcake: Berry Besties Bake Off is a charming choice for families who enjoy simple games, cute characters, and friendly competition. It may have some limitations in terms of complexity and replayability, but its cheerful theme and easy-to-learn gameplay make it a lovely addition to a family game collection. If you’re looking for a game that feels more about having fun together than taking competition too seriously, this is a game worth checking out.

Strawberry Shortcake: Berry Besties Bake Off -Game Review brought to you by Gaming Chickadee

Cocomine – Review

Gaming Chickadee — Tue, 25 Aug 2026 13:34:00 +0000

Cocomine is basically the sequel to Welcome to My Home another one of my favorite apps. In the game you decorate rooms, dress up, complete quests etc. It’s a little bit like Animal Crossing because you do those things in Animal Crossing as well. Anyway, you’ll find out more in my review for the game!

Why Cocomine?

Cocomine is a relaxing exploration and building game where players can collect resources, decorate environments, and gradually create a peaceful world of their own. The game focuses on creativity, discovery, and gentle progression rather than fast action or difficult challenges. Because of this, it offers a calm experience that many players find enjoyable when they want something slower and more relaxing to play.

At its core, the game centers around exploration and resource gathering. Players move through a colorful environment looking for materials that can be collected and used later. These resources might include items found in nature, objects hidden in the environment, or materials that appear after completing certain tasks. Gathering these resources is an important part of the gameplay because they allow players to unlock new items, decorations, or tools.

One of the main goals in Cocomine is to build and decorate different spaces. As players collect materials, they can use them to craft furniture, decorations, or other useful objects. This allows players to personalize the world around them and gradually transform simple areas into lively, decorated spaces.

The decorating aspect of the game encourages creativity. Players can experiment with different layouts, try various combinations of objects, and design their surroundings however they like. Some players might enjoy creating neat and organized spaces, while others may prefer to fill their areas with colorful decorations and playful designs.

Another enjoyable part of the game is its slow and steady progression. Instead of unlocking everything immediately, players gradually gain access to new items and features as they continue playing. This makes the game feel rewarding because each new discovery opens up more possibilities for building and decorating.

The visual style of Cocomine is bright, friendly, and inviting. The environments are usually filled with colorful scenery, soft shapes, and cheerful designs that give the game a warm atmosphere. This style helps create a world that feels welcoming and pleasant to explore.

The music and sound design also contribute to the relaxing experience. Gentle background music plays while players explore or decorate, helping the game maintain a calm and cozy feeling. Sound effects for collecting items or placing objects provide satisfying feedback without becoming overwhelming.

Another strength of the game is its accessible gameplay. The controls are usually simple and easy to understand, making the game suitable for players of different ages and skill levels. Because there is little pressure or time limits, players can explore at their own pace and enjoy the experience without feeling rushed.

Cocomine can also be appealing for players who enjoy creative sandbox-style games. The freedom to gather resources, build structures, and decorate environments gives players plenty of opportunities to experiment and express their own ideas.

However, despite its relaxing design, the game does have a few limitations.

One potential drawback is that the gameplay can eventually feel repetitive. Since many activities involve collecting materials and decorating spaces, players may feel that they are repeating similar tasks after playing for long periods of time.

Another issue is that the game may not offer a strong story or clear objectives. Some players enjoy having open-ended gameplay, but others may prefer a more structured experience with a detailed storyline or specific missions.

The pace of progression may also feel slow for some players. Because items unlock gradually, it can take time before players gain access to more advanced decorations or tools.

Additionally, players who enjoy action-packed gameplay or complex challenges may find the calm and simple mechanics less exciting.

Even with these drawbacks, the game still succeeds at creating a peaceful environment where players can relax and build at their own pace.

How We Test Games

For testing games we use a Nintendo Switch firmware version 2H. Hardware includes Joy-con and Pro controller on a large screen TV. Tests are done with up to 5 players. We take turns playing and evaluating games.

Whenever possible we play multiple players. We also use a Nintendo 2DS, DS XL, and for PC games we use a Ryzen 7 1700x CPU, AMD RX580, running on Win 10. This game is up to 1-player on one Android or IOS device.

Pros

Relaxing and peaceful gameplay.

Encourages creativity and experimentation.

Colorful and friendly visual style.

Simple controls that are easy to learn.

Resource gathering and decorating provide long-term goals.

Calm music and cozy atmosphere.

Cons

Gameplay can become repetitive after extended play.

The game may lack a strong story or clear objectives.

Progression can feel slow at times.

Players looking for action or complex gameplay may find it too simple.

Summary

Overall, Cocomine is a gentle and creative game that focuses on exploration, building, and decorating. Its calm atmosphere and flexible design allow players to enjoy the experience at their own pace. While it may not provide intense action or difficult challenges, it offers a relaxing environment where creativity and discovery take center stage. For players who enjoy cozy games and designing their own spaces, Cocomine can be a peaceful and satisfying adventure.

Cocomine – Review brought to you by Gaming Chickadee

Sonic Mania – Review

David M. — Sat, 22 Aug 2026 11:42:00 +0000

We’re huge Sonic fans around here, so when a new retro version of the original game came out called Sonic Mania we had to have it. In my opinion, it’s totally worth it! Sonic the Hedgehog was made in 1991 for the Sega Genesis. While Sonic Mania was released in 2017 made for modern hardware.

They really captured the best parts of the original series then added more modern features. It would have beet so nice to have spin dash in the original series. The graphics have the look and feel of the original but with improved added colors and modern resolution lacking in the original.

There are parts of the original stages, bosses, and bonus levels. However, the new content blends in with the original material flawlessly. It’s hard to believe this wasn’t part of the original series, it’s that good!

Why Would Anybody Get Sonic Mania?

Because it’s everything great about the original Sonic series minus he drawbacks of old hardware. It feels like playing an old game on a high end system, like all the advertising was back then. The commercial for the game always looked better than actually playing anything on a Genesis, Atari, Intellivision, Commodore, and yes, even the original NES!

If you like side scrollers and quick action then this game is for you. Plus it has a competition mode for 4 players. That’s something missing from the original. Sure, you could have someone join in as Tails, but honestly it kinda sucked trying to keep up with Sonic. It was more of an afterthought than a feature of the original.

Not so with Sonic Mania. This should appeal to anyone who enjoys 4 player games. Each player gets their own screen. Plus you can choose features like item boxes that switch players. Definitely one of the most hilarious features I’ve seen in a 4 player game.

Comparable Games

Big surprise, Sonic Mania is comparable to most Sonic games. It’s so much like the original it’s hard to believe it wasn’t released in the late 1990’s or early 2000’s. Llike most side scrollers there are stages followed by a boss battle. Plus bonus rounds. A formula that’s been around since Mario Bros.

The 4 player head to head action in Sonic Mania stands out since many side scrollers are single player. It’s our favorite mode when we play Sonic Mania. It’s a good blend of the best parts of the old with upgraded features and gameplay.

Pros and Cons

The graphics and soundtrack are an advantage of Sonic Mania. It doesn’t lag or look low resolution like most games back then.

Th 4 player mode is one of the best benefits. Being able to play side by side with each other in a fast moving game just wasn’t possible on the old hardware.

The bonus levels and content are so good it’s hard to believe it wasn’t part of the original. Item boxes with different power ups, hidden paths, new characters, and new bonus levels fit seamlessly with the original.

I can’t forget to mention the shrinking levels. A personal favorite and totally awesome! I really can’t think of any negative things to say. We’re huge Sonic fans around here.

Summary Sonic Mania

Our review of Sonic Mania gives it 10 stars out of 10. We loved it that much and play it all the time. It’s that good!

Sonic Mania – Review brought to you by: David M.

I’m David M. I’ve been playing video games a long time, my pong game was fire. Now, my kids run circles around me but we always have a good time. We mostly play party and family games. Strategy and battle games are still among my favorites. I like writing about games almost as much as I do playing them. My favorite games are: Moving Out 2, Out of Space and Overcooked All You Can Eat.

Welcome to My Home – Review

Gaming Chickadee — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 18:24:25 +0000

Welcome to My Home is one of my fave apps to play. It’s sort of similar to Animal Crossing, you decorate your own house, dress up, farm crops, complete tasks and more fun things like that. In my review for the game you’ll find out more!

Unfortunately, the game will end services on September 10th, 2026 and you can’t currently play the game unless you already have it downloaded. But until then, let’s enjoy the game!

Why Welcome to My Home?

Welcome to My Home is a relaxing and creative game that focuses on decorating, organization, and building a cozy living space. Instead of fast action or difficult challenges, the game encourages players to slow down and enjoy designing rooms, placing furniture, and creating a home that feels comfortable and personal. Its calm atmosphere and simple gameplay make it especially appealing for players who enjoy creativity and peaceful experiences.

The main idea of the game is simple: players are given a house or apartment space and gradually fill it with furniture, decorations, and other items. As players progress, they unlock more objects that can be used to decorate different rooms. These might include things like sofas, tables, plants, kitchen items, lamps, rugs, wall decorations, and more.

One of the most enjoyable parts of the game is the freedom to design spaces however the player wants. There is no single correct way to decorate a room. Players can place items in different positions, experiment with colors, and create a layout that feels comfortable or stylish. Some players might prefer a modern and clean design, while others might create colorful rooms filled with decorations.

The game also encourages experimentation and creativity. Because players can rearrange items easily, it is fun to try different designs and layouts. If a room does not look quite right, objects can simply be moved or replaced. This makes the experience feel relaxed and forgiving rather than stressful.

Another appealing feature is the game’s cozy atmosphere. The visuals are usually bright and friendly, with soft colors and pleasant environments. Rooms often feel warm and welcoming, which fits well with the theme of building a home. The gentle background music helps create a calm mood, making the game enjoyable for players who want a relaxing break from more intense games.

Many decorating games also include progression systems, and Welcome to My Home follows this idea. As players continue playing, they unlock new furniture, decorations, or rooms to design. This gives players a sense of accomplishment and keeps the experience interesting over time.

The game can also be enjoyable for players who like organization and design challenges. Some rooms may start empty or messy, and players must figure out how to arrange everything neatly. Deciding where each item should go can be satisfying, especially when the final result looks organized and comfortable.

Another strength of the game is that it is easy to understand. The controls and mechanics are simple, which means players of many ages can enjoy it. Younger players, casual players, and people who are new to games can all quickly learn how to decorate rooms and explore the house.

However, despite its relaxing style, the game does have some drawbacks.

Because the gameplay focuses mostly on decorating and arranging items, it may eventually feel repetitive for some players. After designing several rooms, the activities may start to feel similar. Players who prefer action, puzzles, or complex challenges might find the gameplay too simple.

Another possible issue is that the game may not have a strong story or clear objectives. While some players enjoy the freedom to decorate however they like, others may prefer a more structured experience with specific goals or missions.

The amount of available furniture and decoration options may also vary. If the game has a limited selection of items, players might feel that there are not enough choices for creating very unique designs.

Additionally, players who enjoy faster-paced games might feel that the slower, more relaxed style does not provide enough excitement.

Despite these limitations, the game succeeds at what it is trying to do: provide a peaceful and creative environment.

How We Test Games

Pros

Relaxing and cozy gameplay.

Encourages creativity and personal design choices.

Easy controls that are simple to learn.

Satisfying room decoration and organization.

Calm music and pleasant atmosphere.

Cons

Gameplay may feel repetitive after decorating many rooms.

Furniture options may feel limited over time.

Players looking for action or complex gameplay might find it too simple.

Summary

Overall, Welcome to My Home is a calm and enjoyable decorating game that focuses on creativity and comfort. Its relaxed pace, friendly visuals, and open design allow players to create spaces that reflect their own style. While it may not provide the excitement of action games, it offers a peaceful experience that many players find satisfying. For fans of decorating, design, and cozy games, Welcome to My Home can be a charming and relaxing way to spend time building the perfect house.

Welcome to My Home – Review brought to you by Gaming Chickadee

Star Stable Online: Western Festival Tips and Tricks

Gaming Chickadee — Sun, 16 Aug 2026 01:10:44 +0000

Star Stable is one of our favorite games and the game has loads of different event including the Western Festival! In this post I’ll share some of my tips and tricks for the event, I hope it help you out!

If you’d like to learn more about the event, try checking out my review here.

Tips

I recommend starting with whatever location you’re at. If you’re closer to moorland start there and if you’re closer to starshine ranch start there. In any case we’ll start with moorland in this example.

Start with the high striker than do Bobbie’s race. Afterwards do Jasper or Dorith’s pumpkin quests or both of theirs’s depending on who you want to win or just make it a tie. In the tricks section of this post, I have a way of doing them much faster. After you finish with all the moorland chores take the transportation to Starshine Ranch.

Now once you’re at Starshine Ranch, do Cassie’s races and move on to starting Josh’s and Wesley’s quests, that way you can multi task while doing them. For example sometimes you have to clear the path by the Wolves den and the missing horses are also sometimes there.

Next the gold rush, I recommend heading towards the mine during gold rush because there’s ushally a bunch of gold bits and rocks to mine there. It’s best to go after the rocks though unless there’s only 10 secounds less on the clock.

Finally, Scott Buttergood’s races and Annie’s quest. Now all the quests and races should be done!

Below are Images displaying the quests, races, points they give and the time it takes to complete each:

Tricks

When trying to get the water back from the mule, accept both mule quest at once (Water and Fertilizer from either person) and ride like you would normally do to get to the mule with the water and when it pops up with the “okay” button to start the minigame wait to press it until your horse says which way to go for the Fertilizer quest click anyway except the okay button then press spacebar, you’re now free to move! Press X to get off your horse and then you can walk right up to the mule, now click okay and click the mule! This trick only works with a horse with a special move and must be at least level 7 before they can use one.

When finding the mule with the Fertilizer they are always in preset locations, below is a table listing all the locations I’ve found so far.

Picture	Notes	X	Y
	Behind the Light House	217	245
	Moorland Champ rocky jump	207	246
	Moorland Beach near Moorland Champ rocky jump	213	251
	Under the Western area at Moorland	203	234
	Near the construction site	203	228
	Near the Western area at Moorland	209	227
	Behind the stage at Moorland	205	232
Picture	Notes	X	Y

I hope my tips and tricks for the Western Festival in Star Stable helps!

If you’re more of a video person, I have one too!

Star Stable Online: Western Festival Tips and Tricks brought to you by Gaming Chickadee

Sonic Dash: Boom – Review

Gaming Chickadee — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 08:58:15 +0000

Sonic Dash 2 Boom is the sequel to Sonic Dash and among FoxGamer’s favorite apps. However it later got renamed Sonic Dash: Boom. Anyway, it’s an endless runner type game where you collect rings, powers ups, defeat bosses, play events and lots more, you can find out more in my review for the game.

Why Sonic Dash 2: Sonic Boom?

Sonic Dash 2: Sonic Boom is a fast-paced endless runner game based on the Sonic Boom version of the Sonic universe. Like the original Sonic Dash, the game focuses on quick reflexes, fast movement, and collecting rings while avoiding obstacles. However, this sequel introduces several new mechanics and features that expand on the gameplay and give players more options while running.

The game features characters from the Sonic Boom series, which presents a slightly different version of the familiar Sonic cast. Players can run through colorful environments as characters such as Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, Amy, and Sticks. Each character has their own unique abilities and animations, which add variety and personality to the gameplay.

The basic controls are simple and easy to learn. The character automatically runs forward, and players control their movements by swiping on the screen. Swiping left or right moves the character between lanes, swiping up makes them jump, and swiping down allows them to slide under obstacles. These controls are very responsive and make it easy for players of all ages to understand how the game works.

As players run through the levels, they must avoid hazards such as gaps, spikes, enemies, and barriers. At the same time, they collect rings scattered throughout the path. Rings act as both points and protection—if the player collides with an obstacle while holding rings, they can continue running instead of ending the run immediately.

One of the biggest differences between this game and the original Sonic Dash is the team-based gameplay system. Instead of choosing just one character for the entire run, players can build a team of three characters. During gameplay, players can switch between these characters to use their special abilities or to continue running if one character gets knocked out. This adds an extra layer of strategy and allows players to extend their runs longer than before.

Another new feature is the energy beam mechanic, which allows characters to swing across gaps or obstacles using glowing energy lines. These sections add more movement variety and help keep the gameplay feeling fresh.

The environments are bright and colorful, capturing the playful style of the Sonic Boom universe. Players run through locations such as forests, cliffs, and island paths filled with loops and ramps. The scenery changes frequently enough to keep runs visually interesting, even though the gameplay remains focused on the same core mechanics.

The game also includes special events and challenges that reward players with additional items, characters, or upgrades. Completing missions helps players earn rewards and progress through the game. This mission system encourages players to keep improving their skills and attempting longer runs.

Players can also collect power-ups that help them survive longer or earn more points. These power-ups may provide speed boosts, ring magnets, shields, or other helpful abilities. As players continue playing, they can upgrade these power-ups to make them stronger and more effective.

The music and sound effects match the energetic tone of the Sonic series. The soundtrack is upbeat and exciting, helping to create a sense of speed and momentum during runs. Sound effects for collecting rings or defeating enemies also help make the gameplay feel satisfying.

However, like many endless runner games, Sonic Dash 2 does have some limitations.

One of the main drawbacks is that the gameplay can become repetitive after extended play. Although the team system and swinging mechanics add variety, the core gameplay still involves running, jumping, and avoiding obstacles repeatedly.

Another issue is that the increasing speed during long runs can make the game extremely challenging. Obstacles may appear quickly, leaving very little time to react.

Progression can also slow down later in the game. Unlocking new characters and upgrades may require a large amount of time or repeated runs.

Additionally, players looking for a strong story or deep adventure may find the game fairly simple, since it focuses mostly on arcade-style gameplay rather than narrative.

Despite these minor issues, the game remains a fun and energetic experience.

How We Test Games

Pros

Simple and easy-to-learn swipe controls.

Team system allows switching between characters during runs.

Playable characters from the Sonic Boom series.

Bright and colorful environments.

Power-ups and missions provide goals and rewards.

Fast-paced gameplay that captures Sonic’s speed.

Cons

Gameplay can become repetitive after long play sessions.

Difficulty increases quickly as the speed rises.

Unlocking characters and upgrades may take time.

The game focuses on short arcade-style runs rather than a story-driven adventure.

Summary

Overall, Sonic Dash 2: Sonic Boom is a fun mobile game that builds on the formula of the original Sonic Dash. The addition of the team system, new mechanics, and Sonic Boom characters helps give the game its own identity. While it may not offer the depth of larger Sonic games, it provides an exciting and accessible experience that works well for quick gaming sessions. For fans of Sonic and players who enjoy fast-paced endless runner games, Sonic Dash 2 delivers plenty of speed and action.

Sonic Dash 2 Boom – Review brought to you by Gaming Chickadee

Super Mario Run – Review

Gaming Chickadee — Sun, 09 Aug 2026 01:11:16 +0000

Super Mario Run is a game for mobile devices like Apple and IOS. I enjoy the game a lot both the free and paid versions. In the game you can play as Mario and his friends as you jump through atomically scrolling levels. In my review you can learn more!

Why Super Mario Run?

Super Mario Run is Nintendo’s first original Mario platforming game designed specifically for mobile devices, and it does an excellent job of bringing the classic Mario experience to phones and tablets. Instead of trying to copy the controls of traditional console Mario games, it introduces a one-handed control scheme where Mario runs automatically while the player focuses on timing jumps and performing stylish moves. This makes the game easy to learn while still offering plenty of challenge as you progress. I like this game a lot, and it has become one of my favorite mobile games because it captures the charm of the Mario series while feeling perfectly suited for short play sessions.

One of the game’s greatest strengths is its accessibility. Whether you have five minutes or an hour to play, it’s easy to jump into a level and have fun. The controls are incredibly simple—a tap makes Mario jump, while holding your finger longer makes him jump higher. Although this sounds basic, the game gradually introduces more advanced mechanics, including wall jumps, vaults, spins, and other acrobatic moves that reward careful timing and practice.

The main mode, World Tour, serves as the game’s story mode. Players travel through a series of colorful worlds to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser. The levels are creative and filled with familiar Mario enemies, moving platforms, hidden coins, and secret paths. Completing each stage feels satisfying, and replaying levels to collect all the special colored coins provides an extra challenge for players who enjoy completing everything.

Another enjoyable mode is Toad Rally. Instead of simply racing against another player in real time, you compete against recordings of other players’ performances. The goal is to finish with the highest score by collecting coins, performing stylish tricks, and impressing the watching Toads. I really enjoy this mode because every run feels a little different, and trying to improve your performance keeps the gameplay exciting. Winning rallies also allows you to recruit more Toads to your kingdom.

The third major mode is Kingdom Builder. As you earn coins and recruit Toads, you can build and decorate your own Mushroom Kingdom. While this isn’t as deep as a dedicated city-building game, it’s a fun feature that gives players a sense of progression outside the platforming levels. Unlocking new decorations and expanding your kingdom adds another reason to keep playing.

One of my favorite parts of Super Mario Run is unlocking different playable characters. Each character has their own unique abilities, giving players a reason to experiment with different play styles. My favorite character is Princess Daisy. I love playing as her because her double jump provides extra flexibility during difficult sections and makes certain levels feel easier to navigate. Daisy has always been one of my favorite Mario characters, so being able to play as her makes the game even more enjoyable for me.

Visually, Super Mario Run is bright, colorful, and polished. The graphics capture the cheerful personality of the Mario series, with smooth animations and detailed environments. The music is equally enjoyable, featuring energetic themes that fit the fast-paced gameplay without becoming distracting.

Despite all of its strengths, the game isn’t perfect. One of the biggest criticisms is that the automatic running mechanic limits player control compared to traditional Mario games. Some players may prefer having full control over movement rather than focusing mainly on jumping. While the simplified controls work well for mobile devices, they do change the feel of the gameplay.

Another downside is that the story mode is relatively short once you’ve learned the levels. Although collecting all the colored coins and improving your scores adds replay value, players looking for a lengthy adventure may finish the main content fairly quickly.

The game also requires an internet connection for many features, which can be disappointing for players who want to enjoy it completely offline.

How We Test Games

Whenever possible we play multiple players. We also use a Nintendo 2DS, DS XL, and for PC games we use a Ryzen 7 1700x CPU, AMD RX580, running on Win 10. This game is up to 1-player with online match making on one Android or IOS device, or 4-player on multiple Android or IOS devices.

Pros

Easy-to-learn one-handed controls
Excellent adaptation of Mario gameplay for mobile devices
Three enjoyable game modes: World Tour, Toad Rally, and Kingdom Builder
Beautiful graphics and cheerful music
Plenty of replay value through coin collecting and score chasing
Unlockable characters with unique abilities
Daisy is my favorite character, and her double jump makes the game even more fun to play
Great for both short and long play sessions

Cons

Automatic running may not appeal to every player
Story mode is fairly short
Some levels become repetitive after many replays
Internet connection is required for several features
Less exploration than traditional console Mario platformers

Summary

Overall, Super Mario Run proves that Mario can successfully make the jump to mobile gaming without losing the charm that has made the series so beloved. Its simple controls, polished presentation, and multiple gameplay modes make it a fun experience for players of all ages. I like this game a lot because it’s easy to pick up whenever I have a few free minutes, and there’s always something to work toward, whether it’s collecting special coins, improving my Toad Rally scores, or expanding my kingdom.

My favorite part of the game is playing as Daisy. Her unique abilities make her enjoyable to use, and having one of my favorite Mario characters available adds even more personality to an already charming game. While it isn’t a replacement for a full console Mario adventure, Super Mario Run is an excellent mobile game that offers plenty of fun, replayability, and classic Nintendo charm.

Super Mario Run – Review brought to you by Gaming Chickadee

Sonic Dash – Review

Gaming Chickadee — Wed, 05 Aug 2026 00:48:00 +0000

Sonic Dash is one of FoxGamer’s favorite apps to play. It’s an endless runner game where you collect rings, defeat bosses and unlock hundreds of characters. In my review you’ll find out more!

If you like this game then you’ll also want to check out my review of the sequel: Sonic Boom Dash!

Why Sonic Dash?

Sonic Dash is a fast-paced endless runner game featuring Sonic the Hedgehog and many characters from the Sonic series. Designed primarily for mobile devices, the game focuses on quick reflexes, simple controls, and high-speed action. Instead of traditional platforming levels with a clear beginning and end, Sonic Dash challenges players to run as far as possible while avoiding obstacles and collecting rings.

The basic gameplay is easy to understand, making it accessible to players of all ages. Sonic automatically runs forward, and players control his movement by swiping on the screen. Swiping left or right moves Sonic between lanes, swiping up makes him jump, and swiping down allows him to roll under obstacles. These simple controls make it easy for new players to start playing immediately while still offering plenty of challenge as the speed increases.

As Sonic runs through colorful environments, players collect rings, dodge traps, jump over gaps, and defeat enemies. The longer players survive, the faster the game becomes. This gradually increasing speed makes the game more exciting and encourages players to improve their reflexes.

Throughout the game, players will encounter enemies from the Sonic series, including the well-known villain Dr. Eggman. During certain moments, Sonic may enter special boss chase sequences where he must dodge obstacles while trying to catch up to Eggman. These moments add variety and give players a clear goal during the run.

One of the biggest attractions of Sonic Dash is its playable character roster. While Sonic is the main character, players can unlock many other characters from the Sonic universe. These include familiar favorites such as Tails, Knuckles, Amy, Shadow, Blaze, and Silver. Each character has their own animations and special abilities that slightly change gameplay. Unlocking new characters gives players something to work toward and adds replay value.

The game also includes power-ups that help players survive longer runs. These abilities can give Sonic temporary boosts such as magnetizing nearby rings, protecting him from obstacles, or increasing his speed. Players can upgrade these power-ups over time to improve their effectiveness.

Another feature that keeps players engaged is the mission system. The game provides various objectives, such as collecting a certain number of rings, defeating enemies, or running a certain distance. Completing missions rewards players with items or currency that can be used to unlock characters and upgrades.

The environments in Sonic Dash are colorful and lively, capturing the bright style of the Sonic series. Players run through areas filled with loops, ramps, cliffs, and tropical scenery. The visual style helps give the game the feeling of a Sonic adventure, even though it is designed for shorter gameplay sessions.

The music and sound effects also match the fast-paced action. The energetic music helps create excitement during runs, while sound effects for collecting rings or defeating enemies give players satisfying feedback.

However, while Sonic Dash is enjoyable, it does have some limitations.

Because the game is an endless runner, the gameplay can eventually start to feel repetitive. While the speed increases and obstacles change, the core mechanics remain the same. Some players may prefer games with structured levels and story progression.

Another issue is that the difficulty can increase quickly during longer runs. As Sonic moves faster, it becomes more challenging to react to sudden obstacles. This can sometimes lead to runs ending unexpectedly.

Additionally, unlocking certain characters and upgrades may take a long time without extended play. Some players might feel that progress slows down after the early stages of the game.

Finally, since the game was designed for mobile devices, the experience is usually played in shorter sessions rather than long adventures. Players looking for a deep story or complex gameplay may find the game somewhat simple.

Despite these drawbacks, Sonic Dash remains an entertaining and accessible experience.

How We Test Games

Pros

Easy-to-learn swipe controls.

Fast-paced gameplay that captures Sonic’s speed.

Many playable characters from the Sonic series.

Colorful environments and smooth animations.

Missions and upgrades provide goals for players.

Great for quick gaming sessions.

Cons

Gameplay can become repetitive over time due to the endless runner format.

Difficulty increases quickly during long runs.

Unlocking characters and upgrades may take time.

The game focuses more on short sessions rather than a long story-driven adventure.

Summary

Overall, Sonic Dash is a fun and energetic mobile game that successfully brings Sonic’s signature speed to the endless runner genre. Its simple controls, colorful presentation, and large roster of characters make it easy for players to jump in and enjoy. While it may not have the depth of traditional Sonic platform games, it provides exciting gameplay that works perfectly for quick bursts of fun. For fans of Sonic and players who enjoy fast reflex challenges, Sonic Dash offers an entertaining way to experience the thrill of running at supersonic speed.

Sonic Dash – Review brought to you by Gaming Chickadee

Super Mario Land – Review

Gaming Chickadee — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 07:34:00 +0000

Super Mario Land is Princess Daisy’s first appearance in the Mario series and as you know, she’s my favorite Mario character. The game itself is also great of course like the levels and music are cute. Anyway, in my review you can find out more!

Plus, on the published date of this post the game is exactly 37 years old! Happy Birthday Daisy and Super Mario Land!

Why Super Mario Land?

Super Mario Land for the original Game Boy is a classic Mario platforming adventure that brought the famous plumber to Nintendo’s handheld system. Although it is different from the main Super Mario Bros. games in several ways, it has a unique charm that helps it stand out. The game features its own worlds, enemies, music, gameplay ideas, and story, making it more than simply a portable version of a previous Mario adventure. One of the biggest reasons I liked Super Mario Land is that it introduced Princess Daisy to the Mario series, making it an especially important game for Daisy fans.

The story begins with Mario traveling to the mysterious land of Sarasaland. Instead of rescuing Princess Peach, Mario’s mission is to rescue Princess Daisy, who has been kidnapped by the alien ruler Tatanga. This was Daisy’s very first appearance in the Mario series, and that alone makes the game historically special. I really liked the game because Princess Daisy was introduced to the series here. She would eventually become a much more familiar character in later Mario games, but Super Mario Land is where her story began.

Playing the game today is an interesting experience because it feels different from the Mario games that came before it. The Game Boy’s black-and-white screen meant that Nintendo had to design levels around limited visuals, but the developers still managed to create a variety of environments. Players travel through different areas of Sarasaland, including locations inspired by deserts, oceans, and other unusual places. The game doesn’t feel exactly like the Mushroom Kingdom, which helps give it its own identity.

The platforming is straightforward and easy to understand. Mario runs, jumps on enemies, collects coins, avoids obstacles, and searches for the exit at the end of each stage. The levels are relatively short, making the game well suited to a handheld system. You can play a level fairly quickly, making it easy to pick up the Game Boy for a short gaming session.

One of the most interesting things about Super Mario Land is its unusual enemies. While familiar Mario enemies appear, the game also introduces creatures and obstacles that aren’t commonly seen in other entries. This makes exploring Sarasaland feel like visiting a completely different Mario world.

The game also features some unique power-ups and gameplay mechanics. The Super Mushroom allows Mario to become larger, while the Fire Flower gives him the ability to attack enemies with fireballs. There is also the Superball Flower, a special power-up unique to this game. Instead of throwing traditional fireballs, Mario throws bouncing balls that can defeat enemies and collect coins. The Superball Flower is a fun idea that gives the game some personality of its own.

Another interesting feature is the variety of vehicles. In certain stages, Mario takes control of a vehicle and moves through the level in a way that feels very different from traditional platforming. These sections provide a nice change of pace and help prevent the entire game from feeling like the same type of level repeated over and over.

The music is another memorable part of the experience. Because the Game Boy had much simpler audio capabilities than a home console, the soundtrack is quite different from the orchestral or heavily produced music found in newer Mario games. However, the tunes are catchy and fit the fast-paced platforming well. Some of the melodies can stick in your head long after you’ve finished playing.

The game’s difficulty is also worth mentioning. Super Mario Land isn’t an enormous adventure, but some sections can be challenging. Players need to learn enemy patterns, carefully time jumps, and avoid hazards. The controls are simple, but successful platforming still requires practice.

One downside is that the game’s short length can make it feel less substantial than later Mario adventures. Once you’ve completed the levels and learned their layouts, there isn’t as much additional content to keep you playing. The Game Boy’s limited hardware also means the visuals are very simple compared with later handheld Mario games.

Another drawback is that the controls can feel somewhat less precise than those in newer Mario games. This is understandable considering the age of the game, but players accustomed to modern Mario controls may need some time to adjust.

How We Test Games

Whenever possible we play multiple players. We also use a Nintendo 2DS, DS XL, and for PC games we use a Ryzen 7 1700x CPU, AMD RX580, running on Win 10.

Pros

Introduces Princess Daisy to the Mario series
Unique Sarasaland setting
Simple and enjoyable platforming
Fun and unusual enemies
The Superball Flower is a creative power-up
Vehicle sections add gameplay variety
Catchy and memorable music
Short levels work well for a handheld game
Charming classic Game Boy presentation
Important piece of Mario history
Great choice for fans of Princess Daisy

Cons

Relatively short compared with later Mario adventures
Limited replay value after completing the game
Black-and-white graphics can be difficult for some modern players to adjust to
Controls aren’t as polished as those in newer Mario games
Some levels and sections can become challenging or frustrating
Fewer power-ups and features than later Mario platformers

Summary

Super Mario Land is a fascinating piece of Mario history and a fun little Game Boy platformer. It may not be as large or polished as later games in the franchise, but its unique setting, unusual enemies, memorable music, and special gameplay ideas give it plenty of personality.

The biggest reason I liked Super Mario Land is undoubtedly Princess Daisy’s introduction. It is really cool to play the game where Daisy first appeared and see the beginning of a character who would eventually become an important part of the Mario cast. Knowing that this is where Daisy’s story in the series began gives the game an extra level of significance, especially for anyone who loves her character.

Overall, Super Mario Land is a charming classic that is worth remembering not only as an early handheld Mario game, but also as the game that introduced Princess Daisy. Its short length and dated presentation may keep it from feeling as impressive as modern Mario adventures, but its unique identity and historical importance make it a memorable part of the series. For Mario fans—and especially Princess Daisy fans—it is a game that deserves a special place in Mario history.

Super Mario Land – Review brought to you by Gaming Chickadee