Dream such wonderful dreams; I will protect you from the nightmares.
| Game Name (2023) | |||||
| Developer(s) | Clarity Games | Publisher | Clarity Games | ||
| Platform Availability | Steam (PC) | Genre | Puzzle | ||
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1 |  |
Family |  |
5+ Hours |
I have always loved puzzle games; that passion started with Tetris, Columns, and eventually to Chu Chu Rocket. Puzzle games simply offer a different experience from other game styles. While they don't often provide an engaging story, they challenge the player to think in different way and provide brain stimulation that is very enjoyable in hourly portions. You don't need to play a puzzle game for 10...20...50+ hours to get the full experience. It is a challenge to yourself to get better with each play.
Story
Sweet Dreams Alex is a sweet puzzle game that provide an enjoyable challenge while sprinkling a story throughout. The story is told in two main ways:
- Through a teddy bear that also acts as the tutorial provider
- Diary entries that can be found in random levels; you just need to spot them in the level and click on them.
The main goal of the game is to protect Alex from nightmares each night. The nightmares appear via portals and find the quickest way to Alex. Thankfully, your teddy bear teaches you how to defend against (or more specifically slow down) the nightmares. Essentially, you will be presented with new elements throughout the entire game that will allow you to create mazes the nightmares will get stuck in allowing Alex to get a full nights rest. I like to think of the elements you are building as pieces of a good dream that simply don't allow space for the nightmares to creep in.
Without going too much into the story revealed throughout the game, Alex's family recently moved, and with most change, things are different and scary. Alex had begun to have nightmares, and hence why there is a need for you, the Dream Builder, to help. The diary entries you encounter throughout the game walk through exciting new experiences and adventures Alex goes on while awake.
Game Mechanics
As mentioned above, you are a dream builder, and throughout the course of the game, you will unlock new dream elements that relate to the dream world you are in. The first world represents the initial move into the new house and the fears within. You have boxes you will be able to place to slow the nightmares down. In later levels, you get switches and stop lights that alters the paths nightmares can travel. As you read through the journal entries, you discover what memories are leading to what dream elements you are unlocking and how they impact the nightmares.
Without really diving into each of the dream elements, there really isn't much to say. It is basically a tower defense game where you are stalling the nightmares until Alex wakes up.
Graphics
The graphics are definitely retro and are very much 8/16-bit. The sprites and the artwork are done very well and are very suitable for the game.
The game even allows you to the opportunity to customize Alex's sprite with a variety of decorations and color options. You are even able to edit the items in her room (toys, curtains, etc.). It is completely unnecessary, but it is a nice little touch.
Audio
The music is so calming and soothing...perfect for a relaxing puzzle game to help you wind down. At least how far I have gotten in the game, it doesn't feel there is a need to put pressuring music since everything is honestly at your own pace. It is an overall good soundtrack and perfect for the vibe they were going for.
Map Creator
This is not a mode I have done much with yet, but the game provides a fullblown map editor where you can make maps of your own. It is very easy to use and provides all of the elements used in the game. The controls and hotkeys are all very clear and sensible. I quickly put together a West Virginia map in about 5 minutes as a proof of concept of the editor. The game can't make you can artist unfortunately...but you can dream of being one.
This is a great addition to those who like working with these editors; I do, but I don't have a decide to make maps for a puzzle game personally. I prefer RPG maps, but this is a wonderful addition.
Final Thoughts
I am still playing through some of the games later puzzles, but I have a solid feel for how the overall experience is, which is very positive. The game is not too difficult to pick up on the basics as it is a tower defense game essentially where time is essentially your tower's timer to victory. You just need to slow down the foes long enough for a full night of sleep for Alex. As someone who doesn't sleep well, I can certainly appreciate this theme. The game is light natured and is able to you a cute store through journal entries found in the levels. This game won't be everyone's preference, but I cannot personally find an issue with the core experience the game is offering. Everything it does, it does very well. They realized they had a core idea they simply improved instead of adding in a lot of unnecessary mechanics. Check out Sweet Dreams Alex is you want a calm puzzle game.
Links/Media
Sweet Dreams Alex Steam Store Page
Disclaimer
WVGamers received a review copy of this game for review. This does not impact our honest review of this game.