The Dance challenge tries to replicate how the bees communicate through highly stylized movements. There are checkpoints, but the primary strategy is to utilize wind paths in the most effective way possible. Racing has you compete in a one-on-one dash to the finish line. There are races, dances, fights, gathering pollen, and, my personal favorite, ‘sting a bully.’ These optional activities are marked with specific colors on the map and allow the player to earn Knowledge Points. And if that’s not enough, players can also take part in unique challenges. Aside from the main quests that advance the story, side quests are also available to conquer. You’ll rescue some of your striped brethren that are in distress or engage with evil foes who get in your way. You navigate your bee searching for advantageous gusts that will carry you across the small but open world. When it comes to this bug’s life, flying makes up a majority of the gameplay. However, it adds more variety by having amazing facts about bees (and how nature affects their ecosystem) unlockable by collecting ‘Knowledge Points.’

The storytelling is straightforward with the usual quests, missions, and objectives.

The game does take the subject matter seriously, but with a relaxed approach. Thankfully, this game keeps things accessible and takes the perspective of one single bee who flies in search of prosperous winds to get to the all-important pollen.ĭialogue between bees is highly entertaining, mixing memes and puns to give this adventure a bit of humor.

I’m sure a “true” sim would have been played from the strategic vantage point of the Queen: ordering her soldiers and workers around to make the hive prosper. Simulator games do not have to be necessarily dull or tedious.

Bee simulator xbox