This single-player simulation game is as straightforward as they come. Barbie is going on a date with Ken and needs you to help her find the right outfit. The player can take Barbie through several stores, where you can customize her look. The simulation starts over again if you don't pick the right outfit. If you select the right outfit, you see Barbie and Ken on whatever date he asks about. This game is impossibly easy and was probably ideal for new gamers in 1984.
The graphics are acceptable, given the period. While they aren't anything to write home about, they are clear and distinct. The bright colors of the items you interact with pop nicely against the otherwise dark background of the game. My only complaint is the sound. Barbie and Ken sound awful, with Barbie feigning interest every time she answers the phone. This game has little music, so the player is treated to the lifelike sounds of her car's engine and the shrill ring of her phone.
Yet, despite the flaws, this is still a fantastic game. Early video games had a greater chance of being hit or miss with players due to how new they were, and it's interesting to see how far we've come with the medium.
While some critics will point out that the game is sexist and otherwise very dull, this was the first time Barbie was in a video game. But does that make it a collector's item?
If you collect video game firsts, this is worth getting for your collection. However, Barbie for the Commodore 64 is tough to find for sale.
We do not have any sales or price data on GoCollect, and only two have sold on eBay within the last three months. Both examples sold for $35 - $36, respectively, for the floppy disc and instruction manual. You will pay a much higher price if you find a complete in-box (or even sealed) example. This game was not marketed well on its release and was generally forgotten relatively quickly.
The Commodore 64 computer is easier to find but also commands high prices. In April 2023, a complete European in-box but unused Commodore 64GS sold for $2,499. This example of the Commodore 64 is harder to find, but the more common examples will still cost you over $500.
Refurbished Commodore 64s sell for over $700 on eBay, while parts and accessories fetch a few hundred in their own right.
If you're a vintage game collector or love Barbie, this game (and system!) should be on your list.
The Commodore 64 sold over 12 million units worldwide, an impressive feat for one of the early video game consoles. Barbie would go on to star in dozens of more video games and is still one of the best-selling toys today.
