Welcome to EXPlay, (Explain & Play) the review series where we care not for scores but tell it how it is when it comes to every game we get our hands on, whilst also taking the time to include some lengthy gameplay, to give you the reader, the chance to shape your own impressions and views whilst watching and reading.
In this explanatory review, we’re covering Sticky Business by developer Spellgarden Games:
Sticky Business: (The Explanation)
In Sticky Business, you’re the proud owner of a quirky online sticker shop. Your main task? Creating and selling stickers that would make even the dullest notebooks sparkle. Starting with a generous array of items, you mix and match to create unique designs. The more you sell, the more XP you earn, unlocking adorable upgrades to customize your stickers even further. It’s a simple premise, but the challenge of filling sticker sheets efficiently makes for a surprisingly satisfying puzzle. Plus, the thrill of growing your business and seeing repeat customers adds a fun layer of depth.
The game’s pixel art graphics are charming and vibrant, perfectly capturing the whimsical essence of a world filled with stickers. Each sticker component is lovingly crafted, allowing you to create designs that pop with personality. There is a Pride Flag section, which includes the lesser-known ADHD pride flag and showcases the game’s commitment to inclusivity and representation. The visual style adds to the game’s light-hearted appeal, making every sticker creation session a visual treat. You also get to name your stickers which can be fun, especially, if like me, you want to create some in-joke/puns for your titles.
One of the standout features of *Sticky Business* is its quirky customer relationship story mode. Your customers are an eccentric bunch, and their order notes are filled with humorous oversharing. As you continue selling, you’ll notice connections between their stories, creating a delightful narrative thread. Watching your customers’ lives evolve through their messages is both heartwarming and hilarious. It’s like being a sticker-selling therapist, bringing joy and adhesive to everyone.
Creating stickers in Sticky Business is a blast. The sticker creation tool is easy to use, and experimenting with different designs never gets old. Whether you’re crafting goblins with pride flags or mixing astrology with sweet treats, the possibilities are endless. Even the mundane task of packing orders becomes engaging as you choose packaging options and add extras for bonus XP. The game’s pace is mostly enjoyable, though the relaxed mode can be a bit too slow. A middle ground between normal and relaxed speeds would be a welcome addition.
While Sticky Business shines in many areas, the controller support is a bit sticky. The configuration feels counter-intuitive, making navigation clunky and sticker creation cumbersome. It’s best played with a keyboard and mouse for a smoother experience. As for game speed, the options range from normal to relaxed, but the gap between them is significant. A speed setting in between would enhance the overall flow.
Despite these minor hiccups, Sticky Business is a delightful experience that’s worth sticking with. At its price point, it offers fantastic value and hours of creative fun. If you’re a fan of crafting and quirky stories, this game is a must-try. So, will you be giving Sticky Business a spin? Stick around and let us know what you think! Stay fresh, cheese bags!
Sticky Business:Â (The Gameplay)
Game Specifications:
Developer: Spellgarden Games
Publisher: Assemble Entertainment
Platform: Nintendo Switch (eShop)
Category: Simulation, Lifestyle
No. of Players: 1 Player
Release Date: April 17, 2024
Price: $9.99
File Size: 610 MB
Nintendo.com Listing
