Metascore
78

Generally favorable reviews - based on 21 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 14 out of 21
  2. Negative: 0 out of 21
  1. Nov 1, 2020
    90
    The mobile version of Part Time UFO already had the charm of a Kirby game, the physics-based chaos of World of Goo and the compelling claw machine mechanics of Nintendo Badge Arcade. This new Switch port builds on top of that already impressive stack by adding a co-op mode that betters Snipperclips and chucks in an infinite mode that provides the sort of quick-fix joy that hasn't been seen since Paper Plane on DSiWare. It may be a game about picking things up, but the real challenge will come when you try to put it down.
  2. Nintendo Force Magazine
    May 5, 2021
    85
    This UFO gig may be part-time work, but it's full-time fun! [Issue #50 – January/February 2021, p. 22]
  3. Nov 12, 2020
    85
    With new features, modes, and various quality of life upgrades from its mobile origins, Part Time UFO on Switch continues to exemplify the fun and quirky sensibilities of HAL Labs without losing a step or grip.
  4. 85
    The lovable Jobski and his part-time endeavors are absolutely worth checking out on Switch. Even if you’ve already played the mobile version of Part Time UFO, this latest release adds co-op, and the adventure and stacking modes I mentioned earlier, so there’s reason to jump back in. We all need a dose of pure happiness now and again, and if there’s anything that comes out HAL’s version of the classic claw machine, it’s joy.
  5. Nov 3, 2020
    85
    With a host of extras and the ability to play on a big screen, this is the definitive version of Part Time UFO. A lovely title with the cutest aesthetic in recent memory, you’ll be humming the theme song and smiling as you pick up and play this awesome puzzle title.
  6. Nov 17, 2020
    80
    It was a joy to visit Part Time UFO again outside of a smart phone. Being on Switch gives the game new life, and it’s more enjoyable than ever. Thanks to its varied levels and its ridiculously cute characters, you’ll come back to it again and again. Just don’t expect too much from its multiplayer mode.
  7. Nov 16, 2020
    80
    Part Time UFO is simple, it's cute and it's a huge dose of fun. This port of the 2018 mobile game comes with numerous additions for Nintendo Switch, and might just be the best co-op title on the console for some time.
  8. Nov 16, 2020
    80
    Part Time UFO is a delightful little gem that boasts plenty of charm and is sure to keep you smiling throughout. While I often find the claw machines in arcades to be a frustrating time, Part Time UFO is anything but and a strong recommendation if you’re after something easy to jump into alone or with a co-op partner in tow.
  9. Nov 9, 2020
    80
    Part Time UFO is a charming, cute game which is fun to play. However a lack of variety can make it a tad tedious to play at times.
  10. Nov 2, 2020
    80
    Part Time UFO is a wonderful puzzle title that’s worth picking up for anyone looking for a unique and sometimes bizarre creative challenge.
  11. Nov 2, 2020
    80
    An uproarious, fine, original and as a whole catchy experience that seems out of this world, where HAL Laboratory's stellar creations definitely belong.
  12. Oct 29, 2020
    78
    Two years ago, Part Time UFO was launched on Android, and now, that game arrives to Nintendo Switch, with changes and new additions like coop, physical controls, new modes and all the graphics adapted to horizontal handheld mode. A joyful and fun proposal, for those looking at something lighthearted, replayable and ideal for short sessions.
  13. Nov 3, 2020
    77
    This is an small, addictive game, that’s perfect for short sessions. If you missed it on mobile, give it a try on Switch.
  14. Nov 12, 2020
    75
    Part Time UFO is an interesting new approach to the puzzles games by HAL Laboratory. Particularly fun when played in coop, it's charming, humorous and a good choice if you like this kind of games.
  15. Game World Navigator Magazine
    Feb 17, 2021
    71
    The variety of maps, tasks and challenges is one of the strong suits of Part Time UFO. Even though the gameplay mechanics are pretty simple, clever puzzle design keeps the player entertained for many hours. [Issue#251, p.71]
  16. May 17, 2021
    70
    No pun intended, but Part Time UFO is the very definition of a pick-up-and-play effort. You know… pick up… with a claw… Ahem! Anyway, it's rewarding for short bursts and designed very well for this kind of play, with a level of polish not found in some other 'short burst' titles. It also saves some of its best surprises for the endgame.
  17. Nov 13, 2020
    70
    Although I enjoyed my time with Part Time UFO, the later levels crossed the line from challenging to frustrating due to the physics and time limit in the game. It’s best enjoyed in short bursts of gameplay to minimize the frustration. That being said, if you like previous HAL games and physics-based puzzle games, I think you'll enjoy Part Time UFO. It's well-made and entertaining, just ultimately not my cup of tea.
  18. Nov 8, 2020
    70
    Part Time UFO is a direct and very fun game. It offers simple and great mechanics for both veteran and casual players. Thanks to its great audiovisual personality and especially its physics, you will fall in love with its 30 missions.
  19. Nov 2, 2020
    70
    I had a good time with Part Time UFO for what it was: a quick puzzle game and a good way to kill a few minutes. It's not going to monopolize anybody's time, but the game is competently put together, has a fun premise, and fits great on the Switch. There aren't a lot of failings here outside of the difficulty spike and its simplistic visuals that make it feel closer to a 3DS game. It's just good, clean fun.
  20. 70
    For those expecting a Kirby-like platformer experience due to the game being from HAL Laboratory, you will likely be disappointed. Instead, Part Time UFO feels more like a series of wacky extended WarioWare type levels that will keep you addicted as you strive to earn every medal in the game.
  21. Oct 30, 2020
    70
    Part Time UFO is the best game I've ever played where you control an alien ship while completing mundane tasks. Okay, that didn't sound like a glowing endorsement but it is a cool little game and it's even more fun when you play it with a chum.
User Score
7.5

Generally favorable reviews- based on 18 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 15 out of 18
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 18
  3. Negative: 3 out of 18
  1. Nov 4, 2020
    10
    Part Time UFO on Switch is legitimately one of my favorite games to come out this year. The main adventure itself remains excellent, whilePart Time UFO on Switch is legitimately one of my favorite games to come out this year. The main adventure itself remains excellent, while the new additions and modes augment the experience and increase the content substantially. Because of these new elements, adding $4 to the price tag of the game seems entirely justified to me. I highly recommend trying out Part Time UFO if you haven’t already, it’s relatively inexpensive and well worth the investment. I hope to see HAL continue to produce more small projects akin to this one, they’re clearly quite talented at crafting gameplay experiences for this scale. Full Review »
  2. Oct 30, 2020
    8
    A fun unique game from the makers of kirby. When I purchased this game I didn't know it first came out on mobile, but the controls translatedA fun unique game from the makers of kirby. When I purchased this game I didn't know it first came out on mobile, but the controls translated well to switch. The gameplay may be repetitive for some, although the game is short enough that I didn't feel that way. I recommend anyone into physics based puzzle games to pick up this game. Full Review »
  3. Nov 20, 2022
    8
    I love crane games. Part time UFO is basically a crane game with puzzles. It's got lots of charm. Therefore I love this game.