I made the mistake of coming to Overcooked after playing Overcooked 2. Don't be like me. The sequel has some quality of life improvements that I definitely missed in the first game.
That said, this game is simple, fun and best played socially. My kids (7, twins) had a good time with three simple controls, though at times they both struggled with getting ingredients precisely where they needed to go. We used DualShock 4s, for reference. I did have to keep remind the kids that "yes, it says X, but this is not an Xbox controller. Press square." For a game of this age, though, I don't expect the automatic adjustments that many newer games make when it comes to detecting controllers and putting in the appropriate icon. We had to replay several levels because of this, so if you're playing with small kids, make sure they understand that controls might be different if you're not using Xbox controllers.
The story is pretty simplistic, but for a game like this, an involved story would be a negative. Oh no, you're back in time because of the Ever Peckish! Guess you'd better use that extra time to hone your cooking skills and three star those levels, then.
Visuals are also somewhat cartoony--but again, that's to the game's advantage. Cooking games with realistic graphics never go well, and they tend not to hold the attention of their target audience. Kevin's awfully cute.
The soundscape, particularly the music, is the best part of the game. I'm sure I'll be hearing the warning beep for the meal that's about to be *ahem* overcooked *ahem* in my sleep for a while. The music is charming and whimsical, and it keeps the environment light without being obtrusive. Certain songs in varying levels can impart a sense of urgency, again, without being obtrusive. The soundtrack alone is worth a couple of bucks.
Overall, it's not a game to be taken seriously. I wouldn't recommend playing by yourself. It's not terrible, but it's definitely better--and easier--with friends. "Couch co-op" is a tag for a reason here. 4/5.
4.0