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As someone who hasn’t delved into platformers for quite some time, can Penny’s Big Breakaway reignite my love for the genre?

Developed by the talented minds behind Sonic Mania, I had high hopes for this game as it is the only platformer I’ve played since Spyro back in 2000. And if Penny’s Big Breakaway showcases the same prowess in platforming design as Sonic Mania, we are all in for a treat & Private Division was in for another hit!

Story

In the enchanting land of Macaroon, with pastel hues and sugary delights abound, we meet our spirited protagonist, Penny. She’s not your ordinary street performer though — her yo-yo skills are nothing short of magical. Crowds gather, eyes wide, as she spins her yo-yo with finesse, leaving trails of stardust in its wake.

One fateful day, during an audition at the opulent royal palace, Penny’s life takes an unexpected turn. There, hidden among the velvet curtains and gilded chandeliers, she stumbles upon a Cosmic String. Its shimmering threads beckon her, whispering secrets of otherworldly wonders. Without hesitation, Penny attaches the Cosmic String to her trusty yo-yo—a decision that will alter her destiny forever.

And then it happens—the yo-yo comes alive! Its wooden frame morphs into a creature of whimsy, complete with googly eyes and a mischievous grin. Penny names it Yo-Yo, a fitting moniker for her newfound companion. Together, they embark on an impromptu adventure, their laughter echoing through cobblestone streets and hidden alleyways.

But trouble brews in the form of Emperor Eddie, ruler of Macaroon. He seeks fresh acts for his grand palace, hungry for entertainment that transcends the ordinary. When word spreads of Penny’s living yo-yo, curiosity turns to chaos. The palace guards—loyal, feathered penguins—waddle into action, their mission clear: capture Penny and her animated sidekick.

As Penny and Yo-Yo dodge penguin patrols, they discover that the Cosmic String holds more secrets than they ever imagined. It hums with forgotten melodies, maps to hidden realms, and the promise of a grand finale that could change Macaroon forever.

So, dear adventurer, join Penny and Yo-Yo as they yo-yo-twirl their way through sticky situations, unravel mysteries, and perhaps—just perhaps—find the ultimate stage for their extraordinary talents. After all, in a world where yo-yos dance and penguins wear top hats, anything is possible

Gameplay

In Penny’s Big Breakaway, players are immersed in thrilling gameplay centred around yo-yo parkour mechanics. As Penny traverses vibrant, sugary landscapes, they’ll experience intuitive controls. The yo-yo serves as a versatile tool, capable of anchoring mid-air for swinging manoeuvres reminiscent of Spider-Man, or executing double-jumps in its trajectory to propel Penny through exhilarating leaps.

The game’s platforming puzzles present a variety of challenges, from backflips and radial rides to stringing together combos. Players must maintain speed, avoid hazards, and outmanoeuvre imperial penguin adversaries in a juggling act of skill and strategy. Mastering these mechanics leads to a sense of effortless yet thrilling gameplay, though the learning curve can be frustratingly addictive.

Fans of Sonic Mania or those seeking fast-paced, acrobatic adventures will enjoy Penny’s Big Breakaway. It’s a game that might reignite the platforming spirit, one yo-yo swing at a time, and perhaps uncover the secret recipe for the ultimate sugar rush.

Graphic

Penny’s Big Breakaway transports players into whimsical 3D environments, evoking the charm of beloved 90s games with a modern twist. Players can anticipate exploring lush forests, encountering quirky characters, and diving into imaginative worlds crafted in a delightful retro style. Every level immerses players in a visual delight, featuring candy-coloured skies, cotton candy clouds, and licorice ladders that beckon them to embark on an adventure. Complementing these vibrant visuals is Grant Kirkhope’s whimsical soundtrack, which further enhances the sugary aesthetics, enveloping players in a Willy Wonka-esque fantasy where Penny’s yo-yo becomes the coveted golden ticket.

Why Controllers Excel Over Keyboards

Let’s discuss the elephant in the room—the keyboard. Penny’s Big Breakaway is best enjoyed with a controller. To the point where, after playing for 20 minutes I drove to EB Games & picked up a controller. Using the keyboard controls feel more than a little bit cumbersome. The arrow keys, and yes, I mean the arrow keys & not WASD are a little bit cumbersome. I’m aware I could have easily changed the key bindings to stop my hand from contorting while pressing the up & left arrow at the same time, while jumping while handling yo-yo tricks with the other. It’s like trying to pat your head and rub your belly at the same time—only more frustrating.

The game offers customization options for key bindings as previously mentioned. However, the default controller setup provides a seamless experience. It’s instinctive, responsive, and allows you to fully immerse yourself in the joy of yo-yo acrobatics without struggling with arrow keys.

So, embrace your gamepad, master those yo-yo skills, and enjoy Penny’s thrilling adventures.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Penny’s Big Breakaway offers a charming and immersive platforming experience that has the potential to reignite the love for the genre. With its enchanting story, intuitive yo-yo parkour mechanics, vibrant graphics, and delightful soundtrack, the game provides players with an exhilarating adventure filled with mystery and skillful manoeuvres.

While keyboard controls may present a challenge, playing with a controller offers a seamless and instinctive experience, allowing players to fully immerse themselves in Penny’s thrilling escapades without frustration.

It’s important to note that this was only a preview of the game, and the 2.5-hour playtime experienced was just the beginning. There’s more game to come when it is officially released, promising even more yo-yo parkouring adventures to be had.

Penny’s Big Breakaway blends nostalgia with modern gameplay elements, appealing to both seasoned platformer enthusiasts and newcomers. So, grab your gamepad, master those yo-yo skills, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure with Penny and Yo-Yo.