Penny’s Big Breakaway: A Bouncing Adventure Worth the Hype!

Experience Firsthand | Penny's Big Breakaway A Nostalgic Tribute to Classic '90s Platformers

This new 3D platformer from the Sonic Mania devs is like a perfect bundle of all the things I adore about ’90s classics.

🎮🎉 Calling all platformer fans! If you’re still buzzing from the retro revival of Sonic Mania, then hold on to your seats because the talented minds behind that game have formed their own studio called Evening Star and are now back with Penny’s Big Breakaway. After spending some solid hours playing the game’s demo, it’s become crystal clear that this labor of love has distilled decades of platformer history into one delightful experience.

A Dreamy Escape with a Twist

Penny’s Big Breakaway is a whimsical 3D platformer where you take control of Penny, a street performer who finds herself on the run from a legion of penguin cops after a disastrous audition for the local emperor. The game’s aesthetic, reminiscent of Nights into Dreams, features a unique toybox style with LEGO-like construction workers building colorful cityscapes and beach-goers relishing in peach sands against pink ocean waves. 🐧🔨🌈

But what sets Penny’s Big Breakaway apart is the delightful twist of Penny’s trusty companion: Yo-Yo. 🪀 Imagine a living set of dentures on a string, and you’ve pretty much got the idea. With Yo-Yo, you can dash, double-jump, and ride across open spaces. While there is a simplified button-based control scheme, the true depth of the game’s movement lies in the default mode, where you use bumpers to jump and the right stick to control Yo-Yo. It’s a refreshing and innovative take on platformer mechanics that sets Penny’s Big Breakaway apart from the crowd. 🕹️

Yo-Yo Dojo: Unleash the Power

In Penny’s Big Breakaway, Yo-Yo becomes your ticket to a remarkable array of movement mechanics. 🤸‍♂️ Simply press the stick in the desired direction, and Yo-Yo shoots out, opening the door to a realm of breathtaking maneuvers. Double-tap to dash, trigger your ride, propel yourself up ramps, swing in mid-air for those epic long leaps – the possibilities are endless! The fluidity of movement is simply fantastic, and the inclusion of a Tony Hawk-style combo meter adds an extra layer of excitement to keep that flow going. 🌪️

Playing Penny’s Big Breakaway feels like stepping into a different, quirkier era of 3D platform games. While there may not be an exact comparison, the game’s dynamic camera and experimental movement options evoke memories of cult classics from the N64 era, like Chameleon Twist. It’s a refreshing blast from the past, with a touch of pizzazz that’s uniquely its own. 🎩

A Treat for All Skill Levels

Now, let’s address the learning curve. While mastering the Yo-Yo abilities may take some practice, Evening Star has cleverly structured Penny’s Big Breakaway to allow players of all skill levels to enjoy the game. Most levels follow a linear path, but also offer branching side areas where you can engage in side quests or collectibles. It’s a modern Mario-esque approach that strikes a perfect balance. Reaching the end of a stage isn’t overly challenging, but for those seeking a more demanding platforming experience, the game presents a handful of taxing challenges along the way. 🏞️🔍

A Speedrunner’s Paradise

Prepare yourself for endless hours of entertainment, my friends. As I delved deeper into Penny’s Big Breakaway, I discovered the thrill of exploration. Spending 10 or 15 minutes combing every nook and cranny of a level in search of secrets was surprisingly rewarding. However, the desire to master the most efficient route and finish a stage in just a couple of minutes became irresistible. Even if you’re not usually drawn to time attack modes, this game has the potential to be a speedrunner’s dream come true. With levels meticulously designed around your movement abilities, the urge to dive back in for more becomes impossible to resist. ⏱️💨

Conclusion: A Gem on the Horizon

While Evening Star may have bid adieu to the nostalgic IP that birthed Sonic Mania, the same ethos shines through in Penny’s Big Breakaway. By combining the finest elements from classic genres and adding their own special blend, they’ve created a game that defies expectations and surpasses the sum of its parts. Penny’s Big Breakaway has soared straight to the top of my personal wishlist, and I eagerly await its release on the Nintendo Switch, PS5, Xbox Series X and S, and PC in early 2024. 🎁✨

For more indie games to keep an eye on, check out this list of upcoming indie games in 2024.

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Reader’s Q&A: Unveiling Extra Secrets of Penny’s Big Breakaway!

Q: Is Penny’s Big Breakaway suitable for players of all ages? A: Absolutely! Penny’s Big Breakaway offers a delightful experience for gamers of all ages. While it may have a nostalgic appeal for older players with its nods to classic platformers, it also presents an accessible and engaging adventure for younger players to enjoy. It’s a game that both parents and kids can bond over!

Q: Can I play Penny’s Big Breakaway on my favorite console? A: Yes, you can! Penny’s Big Breakaway will be launching on the Nintendo Switch, PS5, Xbox Series X and S, and PC. So, no matter your preferred console, you’ll have the opportunity to embark on this incredible bouncing journey.

Q: Will Penny’s Big Breakaway feature multiplayer options? A: Unfortunately, Penny’s Big Breakaway is a single-player adventure for now. However, with such captivating gameplay and an engaging world, you’ll find yourself lost in a mesmerizing solo experience.

Q: Are there any plans for downloadable content (DLC) or expansions in the future? A: While there haven’t been any official announcements about DLC or expansions at this time, the gaming world is full of surprises. We’ll be eagerly keeping an eye on Evening Star to see what exciting plans they have in store for us post-launch!


📣👋 Don’t keep the excitement to yourself! Share this article with your fellow gamers and let them know about this soon-to-be platforming sensation, Penny’s Big Breakaway. And don’t forget to follow us on social media for more gaming updates and lively discussions! Happy gaming, everyone! 🎮🌟

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