Upin & Ipin Universe

Upin & Ipin Universe is a strong first step in adapting the series into a video game, and its open world has quite a bit of charm for someone like me, not very savvy about the series. The camera is a constant mess, but if you do continue to power through that major stumbling block, there is a lot to enjoy from this game. Character models are cute, and aspects like the crops growing after watering them or little gestures like how Upin/Ipin take off their sandals when getting into the home are little joys. A lot of heart, and reminds me of those early 2000s game adaptations of other 3D cartoons and animated films, in the best possible way.

Upin & Ipin Universe is a light and pleasant experience, perfect for young children and families. It offers fun, simple village atmospheres and a variety of activities. However, it isn’t aimed at players seeking deep gameplay or a large-scale, challenging experience.

While there’s something to be said for its very kid-friendly approach and speed, the game’s mechanics and funkiness detract from that goal

Upin & Ipin Universe is a heartfelt celebration of kampung life that will charm nostalgic players and younger audiences alike. It’s brimming with personality, curiosity, and low-stakes fun, but its technical limitations and lack of polish hold it back from wider appeal. As a digital sandbox, it succeeds in capturing childhood imagination, but players looking for tight controls, refined structure, or expansive storytelling may find its charms stretched thin. Those drawn to its cultural roots and laid-back pacing will find Upin & Ipin Universe an affectionate, if occasionally clumsy, open-world hug.

Adventure game inspired by the beloved Malaysian series that unfortunately fails to deliver on its promises

The graphics in Upin & Ipin Universe are beautiful and give a real flavour of a Southeast Asian tropical village. Riding the tandem round the village was a definite highlight. Unfortunately, the uncontrollable camera and timed mini-games made playing Upin & Ipin Universe a frustrating and stressful experience. For a game based on a children’s animated TV series, it didn’t portray the childhood fun I was hoping for.

Good luck finding people willing to pay its current RM177+ price tag though, even if it's for supporting locally-made games. Because I feel most children with taste would be incredibly insulted by this broken-down offering that lasts about 3 hours tops.