Mix amazing cocktails while you climb the ranks as a bartender and unlock diverse bartending venues in this narrative-driven bartender simulator.
The game features over 90 authentic cocktail recipes that players can learn to make. To create each drink, players must carefully measure and pour the correct ingredients, shake or stir the concoction, and add the proper garnishes. This level of detail, from the varied liquor bottles to the accurate preparation methods, immerses players in a realistic bartending experience.
Players can choose from multiple modes to suit their preferences. The narrative-driven Story mode follows the protagonist's rise from a dive bar to an upscale beachside establishment, introducing a cast of colorful customers along the way. In the fast-paced Arcade mode, players must rapidly fulfill a constant stream of drink orders within a time limit, testing their multitasking and precision. Alternatively, the Sandbox mode allows players to freely experiment with the full drink menu at their own pace.
Reviews suggest the game strikes an enjoyable balance between challenge and relaxation. The Story mode provides a more laid-back experience, enabling players to serve customers at their own tempo and soak in the atmosphere. Conversely, the Arcade mode ramps up the pressure, requiring players to quickly and accurately fulfill orders to succeed. This variety caters to both players seeking a casual, zen-like bartending experience and those craving a more skill-based, time-pressured challenge.
Players, particularly those with real-world bartending expertise, praise the game's authentic bartending mechanics. The liquid measurement system demands precise pouring within a narrow tolerance to avoid mistakes, and the inclusion of tools like shakers and jiggers further contribute to the game's credibility.
While reviewers generally enjoy the core bartending simulation, some suggest areas for potential improvement or expansion. Proposals include adding more interactive customer behaviors, a wider variety of background characters, and expanded customization options beyond just cosmetic changes. A few players have also reported minor technical issues, such as drinks becoming "stuck" in the player's hand. However, the game's solid foundation and responsive developers indicate opportunities for the title to evolve and address player feedback over time.