Sure, let’s dive into this. You know, come to think of it, I’ve never really hit it off with those ‘job simulator’ games, except for this one weirdly captivating moment with Power Wash Simulator. Seriously, it has a way of worming into your brain while doing the most mundane tasks. So when I caught wind of a campfire-building simulator at the Nintendo showcase, I didn’t groan, “Oh, not another simulator!” but more like, “Wait, what’s Oink Games up to now?” And yeah, that’s how they threw themselves, bonfire and all, into gaming. And honestly? It’s kind of awesome.
Oink Games. Heard of ‘em? They’re the brains behind board games like Scout and Deep Sea Adventure. Think sleek design, social vibes, all thanks to designer Jun Sasaki. Their digital board game collection for Switch, Let’s Play: Oink Games, has been my online party staple. I’ve spent countless evenings swapping laughs with friends, and just seeing it morph into this campfire thing was surprising.
So picture this: you’re setting up in front of a campfire with an igniter and some logs scattered around. You grab the logs with some tongs, chop them on a block, and layer them in your fire pit. Start the fire and watch as flames crawl over your masterpiece. The goal? Keep that fire roaring. Bigger logs take their sweet time to catch but boy, do they roar once they’re lit. Tiny splinters? They’re your secret weapon. Twist and turn those logs using buttons to fit them snugly. The fire’s intensity dances on a meter, challenging you to master the burn.
It’s oddly soothing solo, but toss in some friends and you’ve got a laugh-filled social gathering. Online or locally, with or without a camera, you’re set. No need for everyone to have a copy of the game—kinda like the good ol’ DS Download Play. I teamed up with a buddy to build epic blazes. I’d gauge our arrangement, he’d chop like a madman. Meanwhile, the game nudges you with questions like, “What advice would you give your ten-years-ago self?” as you both try not to set the forest ablaze. Achievements—get ‘em on point and score stuff like flashy axes or silly fireworks. A glow stick even showed up!
Not everything’s smooth, though. Motion controls for wood stacking? Missed opportunity there. Logs often awkwardly pop to the top when they don’t fit, and although you can buy cozy camping gear—like chairs and tents—they’re just decor. But that’s okay. It’s a chill backdrop for friends or when catching up on Netflix, maybe even.
This campfire sim cranks the ‘extra’ to max for its kind but nails the social angle just right. Didn’t see myself hyping a fire-building game in 2025, but it definitely kindled a spark I wasn’t expecting. So, how long ‘til people start blitzing through as competitive pyromaniacs?
