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- Image of Elf on the Shelf jumping, Courtesy of Mollie Dominy

The Mischievous Elf on the Shelf Game Unleashes Christmas Chaos

Originally posted on Total Apex Gaming | By Mollie Dominy | Last updated Jul 27, 2025 3:13 PM ET

Alright, let’s talk about something we never knew we needed but now can’t stop thinking about—yes, a video game about The Elf on the Shelf. You know, that semi-creepy, judgmental holiday decoration that either sparks childhood nostalgia or terror (no in-between). Well, the little guy just got a glow-up in the form of The Elf on the Shelf: Christmas Heroes, a puzzle-platforming adventure that’s all sugar cookies, cheer, and, of course, holiday hijinks. And yes, it’s as festive as it sounds.

Launching October 17, this new title is here to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the iconic Elf on the Shelf tradition. Developed by Outright Games (those fine folks who know how to merge family-friendly fun with solid gameplay), this game throws players into the snowy chaos of the North Pole. Because apparently, saving Christmas falls squarely on the shoulders of one diminutive Scout Elf-in-training. No pressure, right?

What’s the Deal with The Elf on the Shelf Video Game?

Okay, so here’s the pitch. You’re placed in the role of a Scout Elf, zipping through 24 levels of holiday-themed insanity. Think puzzles, interactive mini-games, and the occasional cookie-related obstacle (seriously). The stakes? Save Christmas by spreading the elusive “Christmas Spirit.” You know, that intangible feel-good vibe we all start to pretend exists around mid-November.

Not only does the game boast easy-to-learn controls, but it’s packed with accessibility features like auto-collection and invincibility mode. Translation? It’s perfect for kids and those less…shall we say, “game-savvy” adults in your life. Looking at you, Nan.

Why This Game Could Actually Work

Now, I know some of you are probably rolling your eyes. A game about The Elf on the Shelf? Seriously? But hear me out. There’s a certain undeniable allure in combining the nostalgic charm of Christmas traditions with modern gaming. And The Elf on the Shelf has one huge advantage going for it: it’s already part of so many families’ holiday rituals.

Games like Christmas Heroes tap into that sentimentality and turn it into something interactive. Plus, with its cozy 2D puzzle-platforming gameplay, it fills an underserved niche in the gaming world. Sometimes, we don’t need a sprawling open-world epic with 700 side quests—we just want to dodge some oversized candy canes and, if we’re lucky, feel a single wholesome emotion.

Highlights of the Gameplay

The Mischievous Elf on the Shelf Game Unleashes Christmas Chaos 2 Screeshot of Elf on the Shelf video game, Courtesy of Outright Games and Lumisella Company

If you’re still skeptical, here’s a quick rundown of why this game might deserve a spot on your wishlist (or at least why you should consider downloading it for your younger relatives):

The North Pole Like You’ve Never Seen It

Scout Elf boot camp. Santa’s workshop. Probably more snow than an entire Canadian winter. The world-building screams “aggressively festive,” and honestly, we’re here for it.

Mini-Games Galore

Remember when mini-games were the best part of Mario Party? This game leans hard into those quick-hit moments of fun with plenty of interactive challenges to keep things fresh.

Kid-Friendly AF

Designed for ages 3 and up, it’s a perfect introduction to gaming for little ones. And for adults? Hey, throw on invincibility mode and go wild. Nobody’s judging you.

Why It’s More Than Just a Holiday Cash Grab

Here’s the thing about The Elf on the Shelf. Over the last 20 years, it’s gone from being a weirdly invasive stuffed doll to a global phenomenon. It’s more than just a toy on a shelf; it’s a tradition stitched into the fabric of modern Christmas.

And this game? It’s an extension of that tradition. Co-founder of the Lumistella Company Chanda Bell says it best, noting that Christmas Heroes is all about bringing families together in a new, creative way. Whether it’s dodging cookie-themed obstacles or working through playful puzzles, it’s designed to create “joyful traditions” and “meaningful memories.” Or, at the very least, it gives parents 30 minutes of peace while their kids figure out how to double jump over a gumdrop pit.

TL;DR

Outright Games and the Lumistella Company have done the impossible. They’ve taken The Elf on the Shelf, arguably one of the most divisive holiday traditions out there, and turned it into what looks like an actually decent video game. Thanks to its festive setting, accessible gameplay, and heavy dose of charm, The Elf on the Shelf: Christmas Heroes just might be the family-friendly hit we didn’t see coming.

Will it win Game of the Year? Probably not. Will it bring some much-needed coziness to your console this holiday season? Absolutely. And really, isn’t that the point?

Mark your calendars for October 17 and get ready to bring Scout Elf home in a whole new way. Just don’t put him back on the actual shelf afterward…it’s bad form.

This article first appeared on Total Apex Gaming and was syndicated with permission.

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