SOUTH PARK: SNOW DAY!

South Park: Snow Day!, developed by Question and published by THQ Nordic, marks a significant departure from the critically acclaimed role-playing games, *The Stick of Truth* and *The Fractured but Whole*. Released on March 26, 2024, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and PC, this new installment in the *South Park* video game library shifts genres to a 3D cooperative action-adventure with roguelike elements. The game once again casts the player as the "New Kid" in the titular Colorado town, joining iconic characters Cartman, Stan, Kyle, and Kenny in a new fantasy-themed adventure. The central premise of *South Park: Snow Day!* revolves around a massive blizzard that has buried the town in snow and, most importantly, canceled school. This magical event prompts the children of South Park to engage in an epic town-wide game of make-believe. The player, as the New Kid, is drawn into this conflict, which is governed by a new set of rules that have caused a war between the various kid factions. The story unfolds as the New Kid battles through the snow-piled streets to uncover the truth behind the mysterious and seemingly endless blizzard. Gameplay in *South Park: Snow Day!* is a cooperative experience for up to four players, who can team up with friends or AI bots. The combat is a departure from the turn-based systems of its predecessors, now focusing on real-time, action-packed battles. Players can equip and upgrade a variety of melee and ranged weapons, as well as utilize special abilities and powers. A key mechanic involves a card-based system where players can select ability-enhancing cards and powerful "Bullshit cards" to gain significant advantages in battle. Enemies also have access to their own set of cards, adding a layer of unpredictability to encounters. The game's structure is chapter-based, with five main story chapters. The narrative sees the return of several familiar faces from the animated series. Eric Cartman, as the Grand Wizard, serves as a guide, while other characters like Butters, Jimmy, and Henrietta offer support in the form of rule-keeping and upgrades. The plot takes a turn when it is revealed that the blizzard is the work of a vengeful Mr. Hankey, the Christmas Poo, who was previously banished from the town. In a characteristic twist, Cartman betrays the group to prolong the snow day, leading to a confrontation before he rejoins the fight against the true antagonist. The reception for *South Park: Snow Day!* has been decidedly mixed. Many critics and players have expressed disappointment with the shift in gameplay, finding the hack-and-slash combat to be monotonous and uninteresting. The game's short length, with a main story that can be completed in just a few hours, has also been a significant point of criticism. Furthermore, a common complaint is that the game's humor and writing lack the sharp, satirical edge and shocking moments that the *South Park* franchise and its previous games are known for. Despite these criticisms, some have found enjoyment in the game's cooperative multiplayer and the classic *South Park* humor that is present, albeit in a more subdued form. The game does feature a season pass and post-release content, including new game modes, weapons, and cosmetics, which may extend its longevity for some players. However, the game does not support cross-platform play. Ultimately, *South Park: Snow Day!* represents a bold but divisive new direction for the franchise's video game adaptations, trading the deep RPG mechanics of its predecessors for a more accessible, though arguably shallower, cooperative action experience.