🟢 Plug and Play

A fun tribute to the Sega Genesis era. Good music, superb pixel art and unique gameplay hook.
Also, works smooth at ~5W TDP.

Tested on: OnexPlayer Mini Pro 6800U

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Gameforge provided me a key to this game prior to launch for review. My reactions were streamed live and can be seen here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e8BVI0Hofec

Tiny Thor is a really great game. My initial experience was actually during the free demo that was originally released on Itch. Since that demo, I've already seen many improvements within the game that have really brought the game up to par.
It's main appeal is the retro-style 2D platforming & puzzling that would be fit for the SNES, but a curve ball is thrown in there with Mjolnir, Thor's hammer which can be thrown and bounced off objects for solving puzzles and creating satisfying trick shots.
The beautiful pixel art, authentic sound fonts and FM synths really bring the retro package together.
My main concern with this game is if there exists a truly captivating spark. The downside with being a 2D retro platformer is that it's a genre we have seen done a lot - so much so, it was the "FPS" game of the day back during that SNES era (back before it was considered "retro"); a genre that dominated the gaming landscape. Since then we've had many different takes on this genre, and as such, it begs the question whether this game can stand out amongst every game of the past. Is the hammer enough to keep the game captivating?
While I personally look forward to playing more, I am certain it is a game I will enjoy for a few more sessions before ultimately deciding to put it down and move on. Admittedly my experience with the game is still early, so perhaps a great "hook" is waiting to catch my attention and keep me coming back for more.
Regardless, it's a great game that's worth picking up if you've got an itch for this type of game. The trick shots and puzzles with the hammer really make you feel smart.

I also want to add an unrelated note; the devs were really kind and cool when they responded to my original review of the demo. As someone who frequently reviews indie games, it's easy for indie devs to feel like critique of their game is a personal attack, so these devs may often take the review poorly. These devs communicated well, and listened to the feedback. So I encourage anyone who has decided to pick up this game to share their thoughts with these devs. They're good guys and they listen!

Great art & great music paired with creative level design that keeps the game fresh and interesting. Works perfectly on Steam Deck.