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Penny's Big Breakaway

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Penny's Big Breakaway
Item: Penny's Big Breakaway
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Indie, Third Person Perspective, Platformer, Single Player

AvailableFeb 21, 2024

PlatformNintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PC, Xbox Series X

DeveloperEvening Star

Overview

Join Penny & Yo-Yo in a kinetic 3D-platformer bursting with innovative gameplay! Showcase your catalog of tricks and chain impressive combos to deliver Penny & Yo-Yo's perfect breakout performance. Take the stage with this vibrant pair in Penny’s Big Breakaway.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Penny's Big Breakaway charms with its whimsical story and engaging gameplay, praised by critics for its lightheartedness and quirky humor. While the narrative supports the fun platforming experience, some reviewers find it lacks depth and memorability. Overall, it’s a delightful romp that entertains, even if it doesn’t leave a lasting impact.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

27%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

73%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Penny's Big Breakaway has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, who appreciate its lighthearted and whimsical nature. Many reviewers, such as CGMagazine and Nintendo Life, highlight the charm of Penny's adventure as she navigates through colorful worlds while trying to impress at a talent contest. The integration of gameplay elements into the narrative is noted as a strong point, with CGMagazine describing it as "well-thought-out." Additionally, the comedic tone set by Gamezebo, who mentions the slapstick penguins chasing Penny, adds to the overall enjoyment of the story. Critics like Eurogamer Germany and PC Gamer also commend the quirky characters and humorous situations that arise from Penny's misadventures, making the narrative feel engaging and entertaining. However, some critics express concerns about the depth and memorability of the story. For instance, WellPlayed points out that while the narrative is light-hearted, it lacks depth and could benefit from a more robust overarching plot. Digital Trends goes further, labeling the story as "not particularly memorable," with uninteresting characters and themes. Meristation echoes this sentiment, suggesting that the story serves more as a simple framework for gameplay rather than a focal point, indicating that while the narrative is enjoyable, it may not leave a lasting impression on players. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Penny's Big Breakaway offers a charming and whimsical narrative that effectively supports its gameplay mechanics. While many reviewers, such as Game Informer and GamingTrend, appreciate the light and fluffy premise that sets the stage for Penny's adventures, there are notable critiques regarding the story's depth and memorability. Despite these concerns, the majority of critics agree that the narrative provides an enjoyable, comedic backdrop for the platforming experience, making it a delightful addition to the gaming landscape.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Penny's Big Breakaway impresses with its engaging yo-yo mechanics, fluid movement, and nostalgic charm reminiscent of 90s platformers. Critics praise its level design and potential for speedrunning, but it suffers from control issues, depth perception problems, and frustrating checkpoints. While the game offers a unique experience for dedicated players, its flaws may frustrate others, making mastery crucial for enjoyment. Overall, it’s a fun but flawed platforming adventure.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

62%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Penny's Big Breakaway has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, particularly for its engaging mechanics centered around Penny's yo-yo. Reviewers from CGMagazine and Metro GameCentral praised the fluid movement and level design, highlighting the game's encouragement of speedrunning and exploration. Critics like Nintendo Life and Digital Trends noted the tight controls and diverse movement abilities that contribute to a dynamic gameplay experience, with Eurogamer emphasizing the game's focus on speed, momentum, and dexterity. The overall sentiment reflects a nostalgic appreciation for classic 3D platformers, with many critics noting that the game successfully evokes the charm of 90s-era platforming games while introducing innovative mechanics. However, several critics pointed out notable drawbacks that detract from the overall experience. Depth perception issues and screen crowding were highlighted by Game Informer, which can hinder gameplay clarity. Control issues were a common complaint, with GameCritics and WellPlayed mentioning frustrations stemming from finicky controls and awkward mechanics. Critics like Gaming Age criticized the inconsistent physics, which can make navigation challenging, while Checkpoint Gaming noted that some sections suffer from frustrating checkpoint placement. These issues can lead to moments of tedium and frustration, particularly for players who may struggle to master the game's mechanics. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Penny's Big Breakaway offers a unique and engaging platforming experience that successfully blends nostalgia with modern mechanics. While the game excels in its movement options and level design, it is marred by control issues and frustrating gameplay elements that may alienate some players. Critics such as Impulsegamer and PC Gamer recognized the game's potential for mastery and replayability, suggesting that those willing to invest time in learning the mechanics may find a rewarding experience. Despite its flaws, the game stands out for its imaginative design and commitment to delivering a fun, fast-paced platforming adventure.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Penny's Big Breakaway impresses with its vibrant, nostalgic graphics reminiscent of classic platformers, winning praise for its colorful worlds and detailed 3D style. Critics laud its charm, but note technical issues like clipping and a repetitive environment that detract from the experience. Overall, it stands out for its engaging visuals while falling short in execution.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

54%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

42%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Penny's Big Breakaway have garnered a largely positive reception among critics, particularly for their vibrant and colorful aesthetic that evokes nostalgia for classic platformers. Many reviewers, such as CGMagazine and Game Informer, appreciate the game's bright, colorful worlds and the detailed 3D style that enhances the visual appeal. Critics like Impulsegamer and COGconnected highlight the charming graphical style reminiscent of Dreamcast and Sega games, praising the attention to detail and the engaging environments that contribute to an enjoyable gameplay experience. The overall sentiment reflects a fondness for the nostalgic elements, with reviewers noting that the visuals effectively capture the essence of early 2000s platformers, as mentioned by IGN France and TheXboxHub. However, not all opinions are favorable, as some critics point out technical issues and inconsistencies that detract from the visual experience. Game Informer mentions clipping issues, while GameCritics describes the visuals as "muddy" at a distance, impacting player visibility. Metro GameCentral expresses concerns over the garish color scheme, suggesting that it may be off-putting for some players. Additionally, Eurogamer Germany notes a certain repetitiveness in the environments, which could lead to a lack of visual diversity throughout the game. These critiques indicate that while the game has a strong visual identity, there are areas where the execution falls short. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Penny's Big Breakaway successfully creates a vibrant and nostalgic visual style that appeals to fans of classic platformers, although it is marred by some technical flaws and design inconsistencies. Reviewers like GamingTrend and PC Gamer highlight the game's distinct and creative styles across different worlds, suggesting that the visual design is a significant aspect of the game's charm. Despite the mixed feedback regarding certain elements, the colorful and engaging presentation is a standout feature, making it a noteworthy addition to the platforming genre.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Penny's Big Breakaway boasts an acclaimed soundtrack, praised for its catchy, upbeat tunes and nostalgic vibes reminiscent of classic Sonic games, thanks to composer Tee Lopes. Critics highlight its effectiveness in enhancing gameplay and creating an immersive atmosphere. However, some note repetitiveness in certain zones and occasional distracting sound effects. Overall, the music is a key asset that elevates the gaming experience, despite minor sound design flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

27%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Penny's Big Breakaway have garnered a largely positive reception from critics across various platforms. Reviewers consistently praise the soundtrack, particularly highlighting its upbeat and catchy nature. For instance, CGMagazine describes the soundtrack as "amazing," while Game Informer notes its ability to complement gameplay effectively. Critics such as Nintendo Life and Impulsegamer appreciate the whimsical and diverse compositions by Tee Lopes, with the latter emphasizing the blend of rock, pop, and house elements that enhance the game's fast-paced action. The soundtrack's ability to evoke nostalgia, reminiscent of classic Sonic games, is also a recurring theme, as noted by COGconnected and Vgames. Overall, the music is seen as a significant asset that enhances the gaming experience, creating an engaging and immersive atmosphere. However, some criticisms have emerged regarding the sound design and music. While many reviewers laud the soundtrack, XboxEra points out that certain zones can become repetitive, suggesting a lack of variety in some areas. Additionally, there are mentions of grating sound effects due to visual and physics-based bugs, which detracts from the overall experience. Movies Games and Tech also caution that while the audio is energetic and cutesy, it may overwhelm some players. This indicates that while the music is generally well-received, there are aspects of the sound design that could benefit from refinement to ensure a consistently enjoyable experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Penny's Big Breakaway features an engaging and enjoyable soundtrack that significantly enhances the gameplay experience. The contributions of composers like Tee Lopes are frequently highlighted, with many reviewers noting the soundtrack's ability to evoke nostalgia and maintain a lively tempo throughout the game. Critics such as WellPlayed and GamingTrend commend the music for its ability to complement the colorful visuals and fast-paced action effectively. Despite some concerns regarding repetitiveness and occasional sound design issues, the overwhelming sentiment is that the music and sound design are standout features that contribute positively to the game's whimsical atmosphere and overall enjoyment.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Penny's Big Breakaway struggles with significant technical issues across all platforms. The Nintendo Switch offers stable 30fps but suffers from bugs and clipping problems. The PS5 runs smoothly at 60fps, yet faces control and camera critiques. On PC, high-end systems perform well, but crashes and unresponsive controls plague the experience. Critics agree that these flaws overshadow the positives, leaving players frustrated and wishing for better quality assurance before launch.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

21%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Penny's Big Breakaway varies significantly across different platforms, with each offering a mix of positives. On the Nintendo Switch, while critics like Nintendo Life noted that the game runs at a stable 30fps, which is commendable compared to the 60fps on other platforms, some minor bugs were also mentioned, such as Penny getting stuck on level geometry. On the PlayStation 5, Impulsegamer highlighted that the game runs well at 60fps, which is a strong point, and some critics acknowledged that despite minor bugs, the overall experience remained enjoyable. For PC players, COGconnected praised the game for running beautifully on high-end systems, recommending a locked framerate at 60fps to avoid performance issues. Additionally, Gamers Heroes noted the abundance of checkpoints, which enhances the gameplay experience. However, the negatives for each platform are quite pronounced. On the Nintendo Switch, CGMagazine and Game Informer both pointed out significant technical issues, including clipping and depth perception problems that detract from the gameplay experience. Metro GameCentral added that frustrating controls and camera issues contribute to an overall feeling of unfairness. The PlayStation 5, while performing well in general, faced criticism from GameCritics and Push Square regarding issues with controls and camera movement, indicating that these problems can disrupt gameplay. On PC, the situation is more dire, with critics like Gaming Age and GamingTrend reporting significant technical issues, including crashes and unresponsive controls that severely impact the overall experience. Eurogamer Germany also noted frustrations with camera perspectives that can lead to falls. Overall, the consensus among critics across all platforms is that Penny's Big Breakaway struggles with various technical issues that detract from its potential enjoyment. While there are positives such as stable framerates on the Switch and PS5, and good performance on high-end PCs, the prevalence of bugs, control issues, and camera problems create a frustrating experience for many players. Critics like GamingTrend and Push Square emphasize that these technical shortcomings can lead to moments of frustration and hinder the gameplay experience, suggesting that the game may have benefited from additional quality assurance before release.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Penny's Big Breakaway is praised for its replay value, with engaging gameplay, collectibles, and speedrunning opportunities enticing players to return. However, criticisms about gameplay issues, design conflicts between speed and exploration, and limited additional collectibles could dampen the experience. Overall, while there’s room for improvement, it remains a solid choice for platformer fans eager to explore its rich content.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

38%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Penny's Big Breakaway is largely positive, with many critics highlighting various elements that encourage players to return for additional playthroughs. Critics like CGMagazine and Nintendo Life emphasize the engaging gameplay and exploration aspects, noting that collectibles, side quests, and secret levels contribute to a rewarding experience. Metro GameCentral and Impulsegamer also point out the game's encouragement of speedrunning and the discovery of multiple routes and secrets, which adds layers of depth to the gameplay. Furthermore, the presence of unique mechanics and challenges, as mentioned by Checkpoint Gaming and Gamezebo, suggests that platformer fans will find plenty to enjoy in subsequent runs. However, there are notable criticisms that temper the enthusiasm for replay value. Game Informer and GameCritics express concerns about gameplay issues that may hinder the overall experience, potentially discouraging players from revisiting the game. Some critics, such as GamingTrend, mention that design conflicts between speed and exploration can make collecting items feel tedious, disrupting the flow of the game. Additionally, XboxEra points out a lack of additional collectibles that could enhance replay value beyond achieving high scores, suggesting that while the game is enjoyable, it may not fully capitalize on its potential for repeated playthroughs. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Penny's Big Breakaway offers a solid foundation for replayability through its diverse challenges, collectibles, and engaging level design. While some reviewers note gameplay frustrations and design conflicts that could deter players, the majority agree that the game provides enough content and variety to keep players engaged. Critics like PC Gamer and Movies Games and Tech highlight the game's design for repeated playthroughs, indicating that it successfully appeals to completionists and platformer enthusiasts alike. Ultimately, while there are areas for improvement, the game is seen as a worthwhile experience for those who enjoy exploring its many layers.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

50%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

In analyzing the overall sentiment surrounding Penny's Big Breakaway, it is clear that critics have found numerous strengths in the game. Many reviewers have praised its charming visuals, engaging gameplay, and innovative mechanics. For instance, CGMagazine highlights the "fantastic" blend of visuals and soundtrack, while Game Informer commends the "excellent level design and movement mechanics." Critics like Nintendo Life and COGconnected emphasize the game's tight controls and creative ideas, positioning it as a must-play for fans of 3D platformers. The vibrant aesthetics and nostalgic elements have also been noted by various reviewers, with Gamezebo and PC Gamer appreciating the game's appeal to platformer enthusiasts. However, the game is not without its flaws. A significant number of critics have pointed out technical issues that detract from the overall experience. GameCritics specifically mentions "long stages, poor visuals, and control issues," while Push Square refers to it as a "flawed gem" marred by bugs. Many reviews, including those from Gaming Age and GamingTrend, echo concerns about gameplay frustrations and design inconsistencies that hinder enjoyment. These technical shortcomings have led to a mixed reception, with some critics suggesting that the game requires players to overlook these distractions to fully appreciate its merits. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Penny's Big Breakaway is a promising title that showcases the potential of its developers, despite being hindered by various technical issues. While many reviewers, such as Impulsegamer and Meristation, recommend it for platforming fans, the acknowledgment of its flaws is prevalent. The game appears to be a solid debut for Evening Star, with a blend of nostalgia and modern gameplay that appeals to genre enthusiasts, yet it leaves room for improvement in terms of performance and polish. Critics seem to agree that with future updates addressing these issues, Penny's Big Breakaway could truly shine as a standout title in the 3D platforming landscape.

TL;DR

Penny's Big Breakaway impresses with charming visuals, engaging gameplay, and innovative mechanics, carving its niche as a must-play for 3D platformer fans. However, technical flaws—like long stages and control issues—dampen the experience, leading to mixed reviews. Critics recognize its potential but urge players to overlook its shortcomings for a rewarding journey. With future updates, this debut title could emerge as a standout in the genre.

MONSTER

Reviews

64 reviews found

COGconnected

Feb 27, 2024