Finding Bambi

Platformers are designed to be challenging and fun at the same time, although the recipe is pretty tough to get exactly right. However, gamers are willing to make some compromises, which is why it’s alright if the game in question is a bit tougher than usual, or if the gameplay mechanics are more amusing than they are challenging. At the end of the day, fun is the whole point of video games.

Finding Bambi is an adventure game with platformer elements in which you play the role of a deer trying to find her daughter, Bambi. The game was designed for a jam, which means that you shouldn’t expect too much content and that you should be prepared to deal with some bugs as well. On the other hand, the experience is pretty relaxing and enjoyable even so.

The story is not very complex, but it doesn’t need to be either. In essence, it all starts when your daughter, Bambi, manages to get lost in a storm. As her mother, you have to scour the woods and do your best to find her, although the other animals might lend a hand as well. The whole plot is quite simple, but it’s enough to create a sad atmosphere.

Most of the gameplay revolves around making your way across relatively simple levels and trying to find all sorts of objects, such as keys or nuts. Since the game is more or less a platformer, a lot of jumping is involved, although the mechanics are not very refined. Thus, you’ll often miss the platform you are aiming for because the collision system is not exactly perfect.

As for the graphics, the designers did a wonderful job with the artwork, because everything looks quite dreamy and colorful. Granted, the levels are rather empty and repetitive, but every now and again you stumble onto a peaceful area full of trees and other things. The music is not too bad either, although it lacks the soul to really make the experience memorable.

All things considered, Finding Bambi is definitely up to something, but it needs more content and refined gameplay mechanics to really get somewhere. Until then, this can only keep you amused for a few minutes.