Pepper Grinder

Our analysis

An inventive and frantic platformer with razor-sharp controls and consistently excellent level design. Every stage introduces creative gimmicks while maintaining careful pacing balance. Visually charming with eclectic soundtrack. Only complaint is its 4-6 hour runtime feels slightly short given the wealth of ideas.

Our analysis

A really fun 2D action platformer that wrings remarkable creativity out of one simple drilling mechanic, introducing fresh ideas across varied, satisfying levels with tight, responsive controls and charming pixel-art visuals and audio. The main weakness is the combat, which feels clunky and at times unavoidable, and a glitch surfaced on the final boss. Short at roughly four hours, but collectibles and time trials add replay value.

Our analysis

A standout platformer built around a brilliantly versatile drilling mechanic that feels natural, smooth, and acrobatic. Rather than coasting on its hook, it constantly introduces new ideas, from cannons and keys to mechs and skyscraper demolition, backed by well-paced boss fights and a charming pixel-punk personality. It is short, finishing in about four hours, but that brevity is a strength, with every moment feeling deliberately engineered and fun.