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Review of Barbie: Jet, Set & Style! on Nintendo DS

by Jay Aborro Jay Aborro photo Nov 2009
Cover image of Barbie: Jet, Set & Style! on DS
Gamefings Score: 5
Platform: DS DS logo
Released: 23 Nov 2009
Genre: Fashion Simulation
Developer: Lukewarm Media
Publisher: THQ

Introduction

If you're a fan of fashion advice with an occasional waltz through the epistolary world of glittery chaos, 'Barbie: Jet, Set & Style!' has your back... mostly. This isn't just any game - it's a self-styled jet-setting adventure with a side of shopping sprees, which is basically like living a double life where one job requires a passport and the other requires a credit card.

Gameplay

In 'Jet, Set & Style!', players step into the shoes of none other than Barbie herself. This isn't just any casual stroll through the mall; you're tasked with granting your gal pals fabulous looks before they hit the runway. Players get to plan outfits based on different cultural styles reflecting the world's most fashionable cities. Each locale is designed with vibrant visuals that just scream for your attention. Glitzy mini-games like packing Barbie's luggage or preparing her for a photo shoot craft a round-the-world voyage that feels as exhausting as a toddler after a sugar high. You're not running around gathering random items but rather sifting through heaps of glittery accessories, and deciding if that sequined jacket is better than last summer's floral outfit - tough call! A frequent choice players encounter is whether to go classic chic or avant-garde, with a chance to earn some valuable wristlets by pulling off a runway look in style. Plus, there's a ton of hair and make-up options to explore, because what's a princess without her perfectly coiffed 'do? Just remember: every good stylist knows that it's not enough to just match the colors; you have to shine, dazzle, and potentially blind onlookers.

Graphics

Visually, this game is like a box of sugary candy flavors. The colors are bright and cheerful, making it look like someone dumped a rainbow into a blender, and honestly, we are here for it. Barbie models are captured in a range of outfits from various cultures, aptly blending adult charm and childlike cheer. Every city has distinct aesthetics, from the intricate details in the Parisian sets to the sunny and vivid environments in LA. While the game does showcase some cute character designs, the repetition in styles can sometimes make you feel like you're stuck in a loop of pastel perfection. Let's not forget, it is a Nintendo DS game so those graphics come with a slightly retro charm that is both nostalgia-inducing and mildly frustrating when you realize you can't reach the same level of sparkle in real life.

Conclusion

Ultimately, 'Barbie: Jet, Set & Style!' offers a mixed bag of glittery fun reminiscent of being a stylish kid lost in an oversized toy store. While it has its shining moments, the repetitive gameplay can leave even the most avid fashionista feeling a tad underwhelmed rather than fabulous. It's great for a younger audience - they'll obsess over the mini-games and the chance to dress our favorite doll in luxurious garb. However, seasoned gamers looking for an immersive challenge might want to bypass this one in favor of something with a bit more to offer than just a batch of aesthetic choices and runway dreams. So grab your fanciest sunhat, because Barbie is about to jet-set... just don't forget your gear (and maybe a snack; we hear runway models get *very hungry*).

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