Review: Smoots Summer Games 2

Developer – Kaneda Games

Publisher – Jandusoft

Platforms –  PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series S|X , PS4/5, Nintendo Switch (Reviewed)

Review copy given by Publisher

Smoots Summer Games 2 invites players to compete in a colorful medley of summer sports featuring the quirky Smoots characters. The game promises to bring the thrill of competition to your living room, but with its release in the middle of winter, one can’t help but wonder: who thought it was a good idea to drop a summer-themed sports game when we’re all bundled up in sweaters? Competing against genre heavyweights like Wii Sports and Nintendo Switch Sports is no small feat, and, let’s be honest, Smoots Summer Games 2 falls short of capturing that same spark.

The game’s reliance on Joy-Con controls is its biggest hook when it comes to the Switch version of the game. Each sport uses motion or button controls, and while they’re functional, they lack the fluidity and precision of first-party Nintendo titles. For casual play, they’re serviceable, but don’t expect the same polished motion detection that made Switch Sports and Wii Sports iconic. At best, the controls add some novelty; at worst, they can feel clunky and imprecise, which mars the overall experience.

Let’s dive into some of the sports/events in the game:

Track & Field

The heart of Smoots Summer Games 2 lies in its track-and-field events, including the 100m dash, 400m hurdles, and pole vault. These events demand rapid button-mashing and quick reflexes, and while the visuals and sound effects bring an arcade charm, the gameplay quickly grows repetitive. The lack of depth in mechanics means these events are fun for short bursts but lack the staying power to keep players engaged over time.

Throws and Jumps

Javelin throw and hammer throw are straightforward but unremarkable. The motion controls for aiming and throwing feel slightly delayed, leading to frustration during more competitive sessions. Long jump and high jump offer a bit more variety, requiring players to time their button presses and angles, but again, the shallow mechanics prevent these events from being memorable.

Swimming

Swimming events like breaststroke and backstroke attempt to add some variety to the gameplay but are bogged down by awkward motion controls. The game asks you to mimic swimming motions with the Joy-Cons, which can feel more like flailing than finesse. The novelty wears off quickly, leaving these events feeling like a chore rather than a highlight.

Archery

Archery is one of the better-designed sports in Smoots Summer Games 2. Using the Joy-Cons to aim and draw back your bow feels intuitive, and hitting a bullseye is genuinely satisfying. However, the simplistic nature of the event means it doesn’t take long before the challenge plateaus.

Cycling

Cycling is an odd inclusion that feels more like a rhythm game than a sport. Players alternate button presses to maintain speed, but the lack of dynamic controls or interesting visuals makes this event feel uninspired. It’s a filler activity that doesn’t bring much to the table.

Weightlifting and Climbing

Weightlifting tests your timing as you lift progressively heavier bars, but the simplistic mechanics fail to convey the intensity or excitement of the real sport. Climbing fares slightly better, requiring careful planning and precise inputs, but it still doesn’t save the game from mediocrity.

Equestrian Jumping

Equestrian jumping is a surprisingly enjoyable event. Timing your jumps to clear obstacles feels satisfying, and the cartoony art style complements the whimsical nature of the sport. While not a game-changer, it’s one of the few events that feels polished and fun.

Skeet Shooting

Skeet shooting offers decent variety with its combination of aiming and reflex-based gameplay. However, the aiming feels less precise than in similar motion-controlled games, which detracts from the experience.

Canoeing

Canoeing rounds out the selection of sports with cooperative or competitive paddling. The motion controls are decent but don’t offer anything unique or particularly exciting. It’s a decent distraction but lacks the replayability of other sports.

Final Thoughts

Smoots Summer Games 2 is a decent effort to provide a budget-friendly alternative to Switch Sports, but it lacks the polish, replayability, and charm to truly compete. The game’s cartoony style and local multiplayer make it a fun choice for short sessions, but the shallow mechanics and lackluster controls prevent it from being a standout title. Releasing a summer sports game in winter only adds to the confusion, making it hard to recommend over better alternatives. If you’re on a budget and want some casual fun, consider picking up Deca Sports instead—you’ll get more bang for your buck.