Welcome to EXPlay, (Explain & Play) the review series where we care not for scores but tell it how it is when it comes to every game we get our hands on, whilst also taking the time to include some lengthy gameplay, to give you the reader, the chance to shape your own impressions and views whilst watching and reading. In this installment, we’re covering Pepper Grinder by developer Ahr Ehc.
Pepper Grinder: (The Explanation)
Pepper Grinder is a spiritual successor to a classic gem and bygone era of video game history. There were several moments during my gameplay for this EXPlay where I felt nostalgic for NES and Game Boy games. Pepper Grinder takes pieces of Drill Dozer and creative platformer movement like more recent games like Celeste.Â
Now, nearly two decades later, Pepper Grinder emerges as its spiritual sequel and delivers a fresh new take on the genre. Placing players in a world of piracy, the game introduces us to the titular Pepper, armed with the mighty Grinder to bore through tough surfaces.
The gameplay in Pepper Grinder centers around the drill’s power that offers a frenetic experience that demands sharp reflexes. Players will find themselves navigating through each level with a mix of speed and exploration that provides an engaging challenge. The game’s focus on the drill mechanic sets it apart from traditional platformers by injecting a unique twist into the genre.
I must say that the level design in Pepper Grinder shines quite brightly, and offers a diverse range of environments to explore. From lush forests to treacherous caves, each level presents its own set of challenges and surprises. The collectibles and additional challenges also help to add depth to the experience by encouraging players to revisit levels to uncover any hidden secrets they may have missed.
Despite encountering minor technical glitches, Pepper Grinder remains a visually stunning and audibly captivating experience. The game’s pixel art style is charming and expressive, while its soundtrack composed by Xeecee offers a delightful blend of jazz and lo-fi. These elements combine to create an immersive world that draws players in from start to finish.
In conclusion, Pepper Grinder stands as a worthy addition to the platforming genre, offering a fresh take on familiar mechanics. While its runtime may feel a bit short, the game’s engaging gameplay, inventive level design, and charming presentation make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
Pepper Grinder: (The Gameplay)
Game Specifications:
Developer: Ahr Ehc
Publisher: Devolver Digital
Platform: Nintendo Switch (eShop)
Category: Action, Adventure, Platformer
No. of Players: 1 player
Release Date: March 28, 2024 (EU & NA)
Price: $14.99
File Size: 250 MB
Nintendo.com Listing
