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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

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" delights with its whimsical charm and lighthearted humor, praised for its engaging gameplay and colorful worlds. Critics commend the memorable characters and comedic elements, particularly Penny's antics with Emperor Eddie. However, many note the story's lack of depth and complexity, suggesting it falls short for players seeking a richer narrative. Overall, it's a fun experience, but not deeply satisfying for those craving more from the story.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

10%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

90%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the story of "Penny's Big Breakaway" is predominantly positive, with many critics appreciating its lighthearted and whimsical nature. CGMagazine highlights the well-thought-out integration of gameplay elements into the narrative, while Game Informer emphasizes the colorful worlds Penny navigates, enhanced by her cosmic yo-yo transformation. Critics like Nintendo Life praise the dreamlike setting of Macaroon and the interesting lore, noting that the characters are memorable. The comedic tone is also a recurring theme, with Gamezebo pointing out the slapstick humor stemming from Penny's mishap with Emperor Eddie, which adds to the charm of the story. Overall, the narrative appears to resonate well with players looking for a fun and engaging experience. However, there are some criticisms regarding the depth and complexity of the story. WellPlayed notes that while Penny's journey involves themes of broken friendships, it lacks the depth that could elevate the narrative. Metro GameCentral describes the story as simple, suggesting that it may not offer a rich or engaging experience beyond its comedic elements. Critics like GameCritics and GameSpew echo this sentiment, indicating that while the premise is entertaining, it may not delve deeply enough into character development or overarching themes, potentially leaving some players wanting more. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that "Penny's Big Breakaway" presents a charming and entertaining story that effectively sets the stage for its gameplay. While the lighthearted and comedic aspects are widely praised, there is a shared sentiment that the narrative could benefit from greater depth and complexity. Critics such as Impulsegamer and Checkpoint Gaming acknowledge the quirky characters and whimsical setting, but the overall simplicity of the plot, as noted by several reviewers, suggests that it may not fully satisfy those seeking a more profound narrative experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Penny's Big Breakaway impresses with fluid movement and creative level design that nods to classic 90s platformers, earning praise for its innovative yo-yo mechanics and fast-paced gameplay. However, it suffers from control issues and frustrating gameplay elements like poor depth perception and awkward checkpoint placements. While it captures the essence of nostalgic platforming, the execution has inconsistencies that might alienate some players. It's a promising title, particularly for genre fans ready to tackle its challenges.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

55%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

45%

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 among critics, particularly for its innovative mechanics and nostalgic design. Many reviewers, such as CGMagazine and Metro GameCentral, highlight the fluid movement and versatility of Penny's yo-yo, which allows for a range of actions from speed-running to puzzle-solving. The level design has been praised for its creativity, with multiple routes and secrets that encourage exploration, as noted by Game Informer and Nintendo Life. Critics appreciate the fast-paced nature of the gameplay, which is reminiscent of classic 90s platformers, and the tight controls that enhance the overall experience. Impulsegamer specifically commends the blend of momentum-based platforming with combo mechanics, indicating a strong foundation for engaging gameplay. However, several reviewers have pointed out significant drawbacks that detract from the overall experience. Issues with depth perception and screen-crowding were raised by Game Informer, while CGMagazine mentioned the frustration caused by momentum mechanics that require adjustment. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and GameCritics noted that certain gameplay sections can be frustrating due to checkpoint placement and control issues, leading to a sense of tedium in longer levels. Additionally, some players found the controls to be finicky, which can hinder the otherwise enjoyable mechanics, as mentioned by GameSpew and WellPlayed. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Penny's Big Breakaway offers a fresh and engaging take on 3D platforming with its unique mechanics and level design, it is marred by control issues and frustrating gameplay elements. Most critics agree that the game successfully captures the essence of classic platformers, with a strong emphasis on movement and exploration, yet the execution suffers from some inconsistencies. As noted by Push Square, mastering the controls can lead to satisfying gameplay, but the initial learning curve may deter some players. Thus, Penny's Big Breakaway stands as a promising title with room for improvement, appealing mainly to fans of the genre who are willing to navigate its challenges.

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 SEGA platformers, winning praise for its colorful aesthetic and engaging art design. However, critics highlight technical flaws like clipping issues and muddy visuals that detract from the experience. While many love its charm, others find its garish color schemes and execution lacking, resulting in a mixed reception overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

45%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

45%

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 generally positive reception among critics, particularly for its vibrant and colorful aesthetic. Many reviewers, such as CGMagazine and Impulsegamer, appreciate the game's nostalgic appeal, likening its style to that of Dreamcast-era games and old SEGA platformers. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming also highlight the attention to detail in the art style, which makes each zone visually distinct and engaging. Nintendo Life echoes this sentiment, noting the dreamlike levels and goofy character designs that contribute to the game's charm. Overall, the colorful and themed worlds have been praised for enhancing the overall aesthetic experience, making it visually appealing to fans of classic platformers. However, not all feedback is positive, as several critics have pointed out technical issues and design choices that detract from the visual experience. Game Informer mentions the presence of clipping issues, which can disrupt immersion, while Metro GameCentral criticizes the garish color scheme as potentially off-putting and suggests that the environments lack visual appeal despite being readable. GameCritics further notes that the visuals can appear 'muddy' at a distance, obscuring player visibility and impacting the overall presentation. This mix of technical flaws and subjective design choices has led to some dissatisfaction among reviewers. The overall consensus among critics indicates a division in opinion regarding the graphics and visual design of Penny's Big Breakaway. While many appreciate the colorful, nostalgic aesthetic and its charm, others express concerns about technical shortcomings and visual clarity. The game successfully captures the essence of classic platformers, as noted by Gamezebo and Impulsegamer, yet it struggles with execution in certain areas, as highlighted by Metro GameCentral and GameCritics. This blend of praise and criticism suggests that while the game has strong visual elements, it may not fully resonate with all players, particularly those sensitive to technical imperfections and design aesthetics.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics are raving about the vibrant soundtrack of Penny's Big Breakaway, likening it to the engaging music of Sonic Adventure. Composers Tee Lopes and Sean Bialo deliver a catchy mix of genres that enhances the fast-paced gameplay, making the audio a standout feature. While there's no major criticism, the music's lack of innovation hints it might not push boundaries in the genre. Overall, the sound design significantly elevates the game's charm, solidifying its role in player enjoyment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

89%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

11%

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 overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, highlighting the game's engaging and vibrant soundtrack. Reviewers such as CGMagazine and Nintendo Life praised the music for its thematic and whimsical qualities, with CGMagazine noting that the soundtrack enhances the gameplay experience in a manner reminiscent of Sonic Adventure. Similarly, Game Informer described the soundtrack as upbeat and catchy, effectively complementing the fast-paced nature of the game. Critics like Metro GameCentral and Checkpoint Gaming echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the lively and fun music contributes significantly to the overall enjoyment of the game. The collaboration between composers Tee Lopes and Sean Bialo has been particularly highlighted, with Impulsegamer noting the diverse blend of genres, including rock, pop, and house, which adds depth to the game's audio landscape. While the general consensus is overwhelmingly positive, some critics did not delve into specific criticisms of the sound design and music. However, the absence of any notable negative feedback might suggest that the soundtrack, while enjoyable, may not break new ground or offer innovative soundscapes that would set it apart from other titles in the genre. Critics like Push Square and WellPlayed, while praising the music as catchy and complementary to the visuals, did not provide detailed critiques, leaving a slight gap in understanding how the soundtrack might evolve or improve in future iterations or titles. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of Penny's Big Breakaway are a significant highlight of the game, contributing to an engaging and immersive experience. The majority of reviewers, including GameSpew and Impulsegamer, agree that the catchy and dynamic soundtrack enhances the gameplay, making it a memorable aspect of the title. With the positive reception across various platforms, it is clear that the music, particularly the work of Tee Lopes, has resonated well with players, solidifying its role as a key element in the game's charm and appeal.

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" faces significant technical issues across platforms. The Nintendo Switch runs at a stable 30fps with some bugs, making it playable despite clipping and depth perception problems. The PS5 version boasts a smoother 60fps but has its own control and camera flaws. Critics acknowledge the game’s charm despite frustrations, suggesting it can still be enjoyable despite these performance shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

80%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

20%

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

The technical performance of "Penny's Big Breakaway" varies significantly across different gaming platforms, with the Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5 receiving distinct feedback from critics. On the Nintendo Switch, the game runs at a stable 30fps, which, while lower than the 60fps on other platforms, still allows for a playable experience. Nintendo Life noted that the minor bugs encountered, such as Penny getting stuck on level geometry, did not substantially affect gameplay. This suggests that despite some limitations, the game remains enjoyable for Switch players. On the PS5, the game generally performs well, with Impulsegamer highlighting its smooth 60fps performance. This higher frame rate enhances the gameplay experience, and while minor bugs were noted, they were described as irritations rather than game-breaking issues. However, the technical shortcomings on both platforms have drawn considerable criticism. On the Nintendo Switch, CGMagazine and Game Informer pointed out persistent issues like clipping and depth perception problems, which detract from the overall gameplay experience. Metro GameCentral also expressed frustration with controls and camera mechanics, indicating that these technical flaws could lead to unfair gameplay moments. On the PS5, while the performance is generally better, critics like GameCritics and Push Square highlighted issues with controls, camera movement, and specific bugs that affect gameplay. The presence of finicky controls was a common theme, with multiple reviewers noting that these issues could lead to frustrating moments during critical gameplay sequences. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that "Penny's Big Breakaway" suffers from notable technical performance issues across both the Nintendo Switch and PS5 platforms. While the Switch version has its share of bugs and lower frame rates, it still manages to provide a playable experience. Conversely, the PS5 version benefits from superior performance but is not without its own set of issues, particularly regarding controls and camera mechanics. Critics like WellPlayed emphasized that despite these frustrations, the overall experience remains enjoyable, suggesting that the game's charm and design may still resonate with players, even in light of its technical shortcomings.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Penny's Big Breakaway offers strong replay value through engaging gameplay, collectibles, and diverse challenges, praised by critics like CGMagazine and Nintendo Life. However, frustrations with gameplay mechanics and certain sections, highlighted by Game Informer and Checkpoint Gaming, could deter players from returning. The game has potential but may not appeal to everyone due to these issues.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

45%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

55%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Penny's Big Breakaway are largely positive, highlighting several elements that encourage players to return. Critics like CGMagazine and Nintendo Life emphasize the engaging gameplay and exploration aspects, suggesting that the presence of collectibles, side quests, and secret levels significantly enhance replayability. Metro GameCentral points out that the game actively encourages speedrunning and discovering multiple routes and secrets within levels, which adds layers of depth and replay potential. Gamezebo also notes the variety of challenges available, appealing particularly to platformer enthusiasts who thrive on mastering different gameplay elements. However, there are notable concerns raised by several critics that could impact the overall replay value. Game Informer mentions gameplay issues that may hinder the overall experience, while Checkpoint Gaming notes that frustrating sections could deter players from wanting to replay the game. GameCritics further adds that the bonuses from collecting coins felt unhelpful, which could diminish the motivation to engage with the game's replayable content. These criticisms suggest that while there are enticing elements for replay, certain gameplay frustrations and mechanics might limit players' willingness to revisit the game. In summary, the overall consensus among critics is that Penny's Big Breakaway possesses a solid foundation for replay value through its collectibles, side objectives, and diverse challenges. Critics like Impulsegamer and Push Square reinforce this by highlighting the game's encouragement for players to improve their skills and explore alternate paths. However, the presence of gameplay issues and frustrating sections, as noted by Game Informer and Checkpoint Gaming, indicates that while the game has replayable aspects, they may not be universally appealing or sufficient to entice all players back for multiple runs. Thus, the replay value is seen as promising but potentially limited by certain gameplay frustrations.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

46%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

54%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding "Penny's Big Breakaway" is largely positive, with many critics praising its engaging gameplay, charming visuals, and innovative level design. CGMagazine highlights the game's "fantastic" nature, celebrating its "charming visuals" and "great soundtrack." Similarly, Game Informer acknowledges the "excellent level design and movement mechanics," emphasizing that it stands out as a solid 3D platformer. Critics like Gamezebo and Nintendo Life echo this sentiment, with Gamezebo calling it a "must-play for platformer fans" and Nintendo Life describing it as a "tremendous achievement" with "tight controls" and "creative ideas." The consensus among these reviewers is that the game offers a rich and enjoyable experience for fans of the genre. However, the critics also point out several significant drawbacks that hinder the game's overall experience. Technical issues are a recurring theme, with CGMagazine noting that the game suffers from "technical issues" and Game Informer mentioning "significant issues" that prevent it from reaching its full potential. Metro GameCentral criticizes the "garish visuals" and "deliberate retro foibles," while GameCritics expresses disappointment with "poor visuals" and "control issues," ultimately rating it a 6 out of 10. These critiques suggest that while the game has a strong foundation, it is marred by various technical shortcomings that detract from the overall enjoyment. The overall consensus among critics is that "Penny's Big Breakaway" is a promising title with a blend of charm and engaging gameplay, but it is held back by technical flaws and inconsistent visuals. Push Square describes it as a "flawed gem," indicating that while the game has unique ideas and fantastic levels, it requires improvements through updates to fully realize its potential. Similarly, WellPlayed acknowledges the enjoyable aspects of the game but notes that it falls short of expectations due to its flaws. In summary, while "Penny's Big Breakaway" has garnered praise for its creativity and gameplay mechanics, the technical issues and visual inconsistencies prevent it from achieving the acclaim it aspires to.

TL;DR

"Penny's Big Breakaway" is a promising 3D platformer praised for its engaging gameplay, charming visuals, and innovative level design, with critics calling it a "must-play" for fans. However, it's marred by significant technical issues and inconsistent visuals that hold it back from greatness, earning it mixed reviews overall. A flawed gem that needs improvements to shine fully.

MONSTER

Reviews

54 reviews found

COGconnected

Feb 27, 2024