Dressmaker

This is a considered, artful game and one that’s so clearly created with love. For any fan of sewing or tactile creativity, it’s a must-play experience.

I adore Dressmaker. It is easily one of my top played games of the year. It’s nostalgic, cozy and the story is so memorable. The concept is so charming and the ability to replay and try new designs as well. For some players, I can see the gameplay loop being a bit repetitive, but personally it’s comforting and adds to the appeal. Sometimes all it takes is a needle, thread and a little nostalgia to leave a stitch on your heart.

There are a few things I would change, particularly the sewing mini-game, the repeated filtering in the emporium, and the performance issues when switching away from the game. The mix of historical fashion and modern designs can also feel a little odd, although I think the freedom it gives you is worth it. Overall, though, Dressmaker gave me exactly the kind of cosy dress-up experience I wanted, with enough story and strange little characters to keep it from becoming just another decorating game.

I have no real-world skills with sewing or dressmaking, but I thoroughly enjoyed being able to let loose creatively and make some stunning dresses. The low-stress aspect (after figuring out how to fulfill all the customer-required elements) meant it was easy to just focus on the creativity and really enjoy the process. If you have an interest in dressmaking, then I highly recommend Dressmaker!

Dressmaker feels unique among other clothing creation simulations as a result of the premise, and there are a lot of customization options. The concept feels very different than other games out there. There are a few elements that feel like they need some finishing touches, especially regarding crashes and the zoom function. But after a patch or two, I think it could be a real designing gem.

Dressmaker is a delightful game that can be enjoyed in short bursts or for hours at a time. The cast of characters is unique, and their interwoven storylines make the world beyond the shop feel alive. The dressmaking gameplay is easy to understand and features many accessibility options, and the ability to mix and match many patterns, fabrics and appliqué together allows for endless creativity. While I wish there was a little more substance to the actual store side of things, I believe this is a great title for those interested in costume design, as this could be a super enjoyable way to try new things and get creative juices flowing, while also enjoying a fun story.