So let’s just get one thing out of the way here. Sledding Game is not SSX with animals. Rather, it’s an objective-free game where you can pretty much play around with friends, completing side missions and just having fun. Some of you that want an “end goal” with the game may be slightly disappointed. But we urge you to give it a try – sometimes it’s all right to have cool fun, especially during the summer.
The game puts you into the shoes (feet?) of a chubby little character and then gives you open range to do whatever on the mountain. You’ll ride ski lifts, build snowmen, get kicked by yetis (if you go too far off course) and more. It’s just a matter of having fun and discovering things to do – especially with friends.
Sledding Game’s biggest draw is connecting with others. You can engage in races, take part in chaos, and so much more with a group. You can even chill around a campfire and have a nice proximity chat. The simplicity of the game is its biggest asset so far. Again, that might throw off those asking for something to do. Here, you have to find it yourself. That’s just part of the joy.
Overall, I recommend checking out Sledding Game because it’s so laid back. Bring friends or make some new ones as well. Who knew that downhill racing could be so chill?
Sledding Game Brings More Than the Sled
In Sledding Game – put together by the team at The Sledding Corporation – the goal is to simply do what you want. That kind of freedom definitely pays off as you explore the vast mountainscape put in front of you. But, really, this isn’t just about goofing off, it’s about discovery.
Part of the fun of this Early Access indie darling is simply getting together with friends and doing whatever. Remember when we used to do that as kids? Well, now we can do it again, under the safety of being a weird blob-like creature. What’s more, you can customize them with new goods you acquire throughout the game. Why, yes, I do want to wear a top hat while I get punted like a football by a large yeti. (What, I went a lot off course.)
Some people may be turned off by not having objectives to complete and what-not. After all, hand-holding seems to be a common theme in some games here. But there’s some fun to be had with Sledding Game’s discovery. Getting out there and just having races or finding gnarly tricks to complete is highly enjoyable. Plus there are laughs galore, especially when you build a snowman and someone biffs their way right through it.
The gameplay is simple, but accomplishes exactly what it sets out to do. And it helps to have a few friends in tow, likeminded in having easygoing fun on your level. Of course, you can find new ones as well, and talk to them through the game’s proximity chat. Just remember to keep it civil – you’re sledding down a mountain, not taking over a country. At least there’s a lot to explore and find.
If you can accept the no-frills approach, Sledding Game contains a splendid amount of content within its terrific $8 price tag. Maybe buy a few copies and bring some buddies along for the ride. You won’t be sorry.
How Does Sledding Game Perform?
Keep in mind that the game is currently in Early Access. So The Sledding Corporation is still working on it. That said, Sledding Game has a lot going for it.
The mountain structure is vast, with lots of stuff to find. Even if it’s by accident. Hell, one of the game’s coolest activities involves simply stumbling down the mountain without your sled. (Relax, you can’t die, but you will get a lot of snow.) It also runs pretty nicely in its early state, though, yes, we did run into bugs. Relax, they’ll be squashed by the game the final release arrives.
As for music, it’s relaxing. There are some soft grooves here, and though they tend to repeat, they add to the game’s ongoing good vibes. I do wish there were more sound effects outside of the chat antics, but they’re alright.
Grab Some Friends and Go Sledding!
We can’t give a review score to an Early Access game because, well, it’s still a work in progress. But Sledding Gametakes its easygoing approach and literally runs downhill with it. There’s a lot to do here, particularly with friends, and even when you think you’ve discovered everything, something new could be within reach.
Just remember to keep in mind that it’s not objective based. Sledding Game is all about coming up with your own gameplay experience. But it provides such a broad canvas to have a field day with that you won’t mind. Now go knock over some snowmen.
Thanks to The Sledding Corporation for providing us with a review code! Sledding Game is available now in Early Access for PC/Steam/Steam Deck and Xbox! It’s also available on Xbox Game Pass.
Need more downhill antics? Check out our first look at HYPERyuki: Snowboard Syndicate!
