Princess Peach: Showtime! – A Platforming Adventure
Princess Peach: Showtime! takes players on an exhilarating journey at the famous Sparkle Theater. What was supposed to be a simple visit turns into an eventful adventure as Princess Peach gets trapped inside the theater by Grape and her Sour Bunch. The mission? Kick them out of every play, rescue the star performers known as Sparklas, and put a stop to Grape’s evil plans.
The Stage is Set, and You’re in the Spotlight
With the help of Sparkle Theater’s guardian, Stella, players can interact with the stages, aid actors, and discover new transformations that change the way the game is played. With 10 different theater roles for Peach to step into, such as a Detective and a Patisserie, each transformation introduces a unique gameplay style and adds depth to the experience.
As players progress through the game, the gameplay elements evolve. For example, as a Kung Fu Peach, players can initially spin on poles to defeat enemies, but later on, these poles become essential for movement. These gradual changes keep the gameplay fresh and exciting without overwhelming the player.
One of the highlights of Princess Peach: Showtime! is the variety and uniqueness of each transformation. With no two levels being the same, players will constantly be surprised and delighted by what awaits them behind each door.
Take the Stage and Uncover Hidden Secrets
The levels in Showtime are stages filled with props, interactable elements, and hidden secrets. From using magic on a lamp post to satisfy a Theet’s craving for cookies, there’s always something new to discover in the theater. The attention to detail and care put into each role and its respective levels make Princess Peach: Showtime! a truly enjoyable experience.
As a 3D platformer, Showtime offers more freedom than other Nintendo offerings. The levels can take on different points of view and switch up throughout the game, ranging from traditional side-scrolling to top-down perspectives reminiscent of Hotline Miami. This versatility adds another layer of excitement to the gameplay.
The Show Must Go On
Despite its many strengths, Princess Peach: Showtime! does have one major drawback—it’s relatively short. With only three levels per transformation, players can finish the game within just over eight hours of gameplay. This limited length may leave some players feeling slightly disappointed.
However, for those who enjoy collecting Sparkle Gems and exploring every nook and cranny of the game, there are still opportunities for additional gameplay. Rehearsals, which are score-attack mini-games taken from regular levels, provide a chance to showcase your skills and uncover hidden rewards.
While the short playtime may be a drawback, the overall experience of Princess Peach: Showtime! is undeniably fun and memorable. The game offers a great variety of transformations, diverse level design, and multiple secrets to discover. It may be short, but it’s a delightful adventure that is absolutely worth your time.
Disclaimer: A copy of this game was provided by Nintendo for review. Reviewed on Nintendo Switch.