I Commissioned Some Bees, developed by Follow the Fun and published under the “I Commissioned Some” series, is a charming and surprisingly relaxing hidden object game that takes a minimalist concept and executes it with care and creativity. Rather than relying on flashy mechanics or complex gameplay loops, the game centers around a simple premise: find bees hidden in a series of hand-drawn illustrations. While the idea may sound light on substance, the game manages to stand out thanks to its polished presentation, thoughtful design, and focus on visual detail.
The game offers ten unique illustrations, each carefully crafted by independent artists commissioned specifically for this title. These aren't just random doodles or overly busy collages; they are cohesive, imaginative scenes filled with whimsical detail and thematic variety. Whether you're scanning a fantasy garden, a bustling market, or a surreal dreamscape, each illustration invites careful observation and rewards patience. The bees are cleverly hidden—sometimes blending into similarly shaped background elements or peeking out from unusual places—so finding them often feels satisfying rather than frustrating.
Gameplay is straightforward and user-friendly. Players can zoom in and out to inspect each piece of artwork and click on bees as they discover them. There’s no timer or pressure, though an optional timer exists for those who want to track their progress. Importantly, all levels are unlocked from the beginning, which removes any sense of grinding or artificial gating. Unlimited hints are available too, ensuring that the game remains accessible to players of all skill levels. This combination of open-ended design and stress-free pacing makes the game ideal for casual play sessions or as a relaxing break from more demanding titles.
A notable feature is the ability to “restore” a limited number of bees to completed illustrations, effectively allowing players to replay scenes with increased difficulty. While the core objective remains the same, this feature adds a mild layer of replayability, especially for those who enjoy the challenge of spotting the most elusive bees. The game also includes multiple save slots, making it easy to share with others or replay with fresh eyes without losing previous progress.
Visually, the game’s appeal lies in its art-forward approach. Each commissioned piece brings a distinct mood and setting, and the bees themselves are subtly woven into the compositions in clever and humorous ways. It’s clear the artists were given room to be creative, and their work adds considerable personality to the game. Complementing the visuals is a gentle ambient soundtrack that helps set a calm, focused tone—never distracting, but always present to smooth out the experience.
That said, the game is very much designed for a specific type of player. If you’re looking for narrative depth, gameplay variety, or evolving challenges, this might not be the right fit. The game doesn't have a story or characters to follow, nor does it introduce new mechanics over time. The appeal rests entirely in the act of looking—of scanning through busy scenes, appreciating the artistry, and getting a quiet thrill from each successful discovery. Some players may find that the novelty wears off after a few levels, particularly if they’re less invested in the meditative nature of the experience.
The level of challenge can also vary depending on your screen size or resolution. On smaller displays, bees can blend in a bit too well, which might lead to occasional moments of frustration. The game mitigates this with its unlimited hint system, but for some, relying on hints too often can undercut the sense of accomplishment.
Ultimately, I Commissioned Some Bees succeeds by knowing exactly what it wants to be: a cozy, art-driven hidden object experience that invites players to slow down, pay attention, and enjoy the act of observation. It doesn’t try to be bigger or more complex than necessary, and that restraint is what gives it such charm. For players who appreciate quiet games, visual puzzles, or simply want something light and satisfying to fill short play sessions, this game delivers exactly that. It’s a small, well-crafted package that highlights the joy of finding little things in beautiful places—and sometimes, that’s all you need.
Rating: 9/10
