Sanrio's iconic mascots have now ventured into the popular match-three gaming genre with the launch of Hello Kitty Friends Match. While the game might not introduce groundbreaking mechanics, it offers a cozy and heartwarming experience that is quintessentially Sanrio. Players can enjoy thousands of levels, collect beloved mascots, and help restore the light to the enchanting Dreamland.
Sanrio's influence spans across various products, from cakes and school supplies to clothing and video games. It's surprising that it took this long for Hello Kitty to make an appearance in the match-three genre, but Hello Kitty Friends Match fills that gap beautifully. As previously mentioned in our "Ahead of the Game" feature by Catherine, this game allows both long-time Sanrio enthusiasts and newcomers to join Hello Kitty in her mission to rejuvenate the gloomy Dreamland using the magical power of Starlight, coupled with engaging puzzle-solving.
Mechanically, Hello Kitty Friends Match may not break new ground, but it doesn't need to. The charm and appeal of the Sanrio mascots carry the game, as players collect these characters and navigate through an extensive array of levels. The game exudes a sweet and almost saccharine vibe, which is accentuated by features such as an album for preserving cherished memories and the ability to exchange hearts with teammates. Sanrio and developer Line Games have fully embraced this cozy aesthetic.
Friends forever While the sweetness of Hello Kitty Friends Match might be overwhelming for those unfamiliar with the Sanrio brand, it's a warm and welcoming addition to the match-three genre for fans of Hello Kitty and her friends. If you're looking for a more challenging puzzle game to test your IQ, consider exploring our list of the top 25 best puzzle games on iOS and Android, which includes both casual brain teasers and more intense puzzles for players of all skill levels.