Pepper Grinder

Pro

• Innovative drilling mechanic that refreshes the platforming genre
• Vibrantly animated world with fluid movements and precise controls
• Engaging puzzle-solving that challenges and satisfies

Con

• Short game length may leave players wanting more
• Some may find the controls occasionally frustrating
• Narrative and supporting elements might feel underdeveloped

Review

Pepper Grinder, developed by Ahr Ech and brought to us by the keen curators at Devolver Digital, is a vibrant swashbuckling ride through treacherous lands and watery depths. It introduces us to Pepper, a pirate with a penchant for drilling and treasure-hunting — a combination that proves to be both innovative and delightful. The game's drilling dynamics not only innovate but also serve as a metaphor for the game experience as a whole: digging deep into the layers of platforming to unearth a fresh, involving experience. As Pepper, players will find themselves burrowing through challenges with a joyful destruction that is both chaotic and controlled. Overcoming the Narlings and reclaiming the stolen treasure offers both motivation and gratification, particularly with the cleverly integrated puzzles that leverage the unique drilling gameplay. However, the elements surrounding the exceptionally fun gameplay have not drilled as deep, with a narrative that could be more fleshed out and supporting features that might feel a touch shallow. While the game's length ensures it doesn’t overstay its welcome, some players would appreciate a longer voyage with Pepper and her drill. The controls sometimes can be unwieldy, adding unwanted complexity to the otherwise smooth sailing. Despite a few rough waves, Pepper Grinder remains a title that expertly mines the depths of its central mechanic to provide an incredibly fun and rewarding experience. The precise control scheme and drilling-induced thrill are akin to finding buried treasure — each successful maneuver feels like a triumphant hoist of the Jolly Roger.

Background information

Critics have been enchanted by Pepper Grinder's thrilling gameplay and its unique twist on platforming with the introduction of a drilling tool that revolutionizes how we traverse and interact with the game world. Reviews widely praise the fluidity of movements, innovative puzzles, and the depth of arcade-style fun that developer Ahr Ech has been able to achieve. Acknowledging its place within Devolver Digital's impressive indie line-up, reviewers from Try Hard Guides, But Why Tho?, Noisy Pixel, PC Gamer, Shacknews, Game Rant, and Cultured Vultures generally agree that Pepper Grinder is a gem, albeit with varying degrees of enthusiasm regarding its length and depth. Overall, Pepper Grinder is being hailed as a must-play for those who hold a torch for energetic platformers and are ready to dive into a sea of zestful arcade treasure hunting.

Screenshots