Bandai Namco's Naughty Pup Simulator 'Doronko Wanko' Unleashed on Switch

A peculiar and charming new title, 'Doronko Wanko,' from Bandai Namco, has made its way to the Nintendo Switch. This game offers a distinctive experience, allowing players to step into the paws of a lovable yet troublemaking dog. Far from a typical pet simulation, the game encourages players to embrace their inner mischievous canine, creating a delightful mess and causing playful havoc in a domestic setting. Initially recognized on Steam for its overwhelmingly positive reception as a free-to-play experience, its arrival on the Switch, though priced, brings its unique brand of whimsical destruction to a new audience, complete with additional content.

First highlighted last December, 'Doronko Wanko' captures the essence of a 'naughty' puppy, a concept whose Japanese name, derived from 'Wan ko' (an affectionate term for dog), perfectly encapsulates its playful nature. Instead of conventional pet ownership, the game tasks players with creatively disarranging rooms. This involves activities like knocking over objects, spilling liquids, and generally turning an orderly home into a chaotic playground. The appeal lies in its unconventional gameplay, focusing on the sheer joy of canine mischief rather than obedience or training.

While the game is accessible without cost on the Steam platform, where it has garnered significant praise, its Nintendo Switch counterpart is available for $4.99. This pricing difference is offset by the simultaneous launch of new downloadable content for the Switch version. This additional content introduces a variety of new dog breeds, including popular types such as Corgis, Shibas, Jack Russell Terriers, Bulldogs, and Toy Poodles, alongside fresh environments for them to explore and, inevitably, make a mess in. Players can anticipate a wider array of scenarios for their destructive endeavors, from splattering ketchup to flinging muck, utilizing even household appliances like robot vacuums and spinning fans to spread the disarray further.

Beyond mere destruction, the game cleverly integrates elements of collection, allowing players to recover scattered toys to unlock new items and capabilities. This dynamic ensures that while players are indulged in their destructive urges, there's also a sense of progression and reward. Furthermore, the game offers humorous cosmetic options, letting players adorn their virtual pets with accessories like pirate hats and angelic halos, emphasizing the lighthearted and endearing nature of these 'bad' dogs.

This release underscores the growing trend of niche simulation games finding success on diverse platforms. 'Doronko Wanko' provides a refreshingly unique take on animal simulators, inviting players to revel in the delightful chaos only a playful pup can create. The game's blend of adorable characters, playful destruction, and engaging progression mechanics offers an entertaining escape for those seeking a lighthearted and unconventional gaming experience.