Although Pikuniku appears to be a simple indie game at first glance, it is much more than that. Its colorful graphics, likeable characters and minimalist environment might suggest that it is ideal for children.
However, nothing could be further from the truth! After just a few minutes of play, it becomes clear that this title offers something completely different.
Released by Devolver Digital in 2019 and developed by the independent studio Sectordub, this humorous video game combines puzzle exploration elements with an absurd world where logic does not always make complete sense.
Read our guide to find out more reviews about this unusual game!
What Exactly Do You Do in Pikuniku?
This 2D puzzle exploration game takes you to a dystopian world full of absurdities and surprises. As the red, two-legged hero Piku, you wake up in a cave and quickly set off on a journey through a world that resembles a cut-out from a child’s notebook.
During your adventure, you must accomplish certain goals. These include exploration, puzzle-solving, and helping the local community. While doing so, you never know what new things you might encounter, so as you can see, you will never get bored playing in it.
How to Play Pikuniku?
Another simple aspect of this title is the control panel. The main forms of Piku’s movement are jumping, kicking and rolling into a ball. Sound simple? That’s exactly what it is!
So, you only have three basic actions at your disposal:
- jumping, which is humorously clumsy and turns the hero in mid-air.
- kicking is used to move objects, activate switches and solve most puzzles.
- rolling allows you to move faster and pass through narrow gaps.
Additional actions are also enabled by the shoulder buttons, allowing you to change your mask and use certain items, such as a hat with a watering can to water flowers.
The important thing to note about movement is that the title offers an open, 12-level, 2D world that allows you to move freely between locations, return to places you have already visited and search for secrets.
Graphics, Sound, and Atmosphere
One of the first things you notice in Pikuniku is its graphics and sound.
Visually, the world of Pikuniku is full of bright colors, simple geometric shapes, and cartoon-like characters. For many players, it looks like something drawn by a child, but that’s what gives it charm.
As for the soundtrack, it’s wonderfully quirky and fits the on-screen events perfectly. Some tracks even remind players of the classic Nintendo style, which adds to the game’s friendly and humorous atmosphere.
Puzzles, Minigames and Unlimited Humor
Although exploration and puzzle-solving are the key features of Pikuniku’s gameplay, the play constantly surprises you with additional activities.
As soon as you start playing, for example, you are asked to draw a new scarecrow face using the analogue knob. Later, you unexpectedly find yourself in a dancing duel with a robot, where you must press the buttons in time with the music. Alternatively, you may even encounter a parody of the classic Dig Dug!
Additional gameplay variety is also introduced through boss fights. While not particularly challenging, they effectively speed up the play and make use of previously learned mechanics.
The title also offers plenty of funny and completely absurd situations. For example, you might find yourself playing with an ordinary toaster, before suddenly finding yourself in the ‘Toast Dimension’, from which you must escape by jumping on platforms. At another point, you enter a ceramics store where you can break any cup or vase without the seller paying any attention.
It is thanks to such surprises that the game has its unique atmosphere.
Cooperative Mode
Another interesting feature of Pikuniku is that you don’t have to play alone!
The title offers nine special levels designed for two players and a multiplayer version of the Baskick mini-game, which is a mix of basketball and football.
Players can enjoy two types of co-op gameplay:
- Cooperation – Piku and its almost identical friend Niku must interact with each other.
- Competition – in which players race or try to beat each other.
In co-op mode, players can play together on one console using either two Joy-Cons or in portable mode. This short but accessible form of play is another significant advantage of Pikuniku.
What Do Players Think?
Pikuniku has earned an “Overwhelmingly Positive” rating on Steam, reflecting the great appreciation from the community.
Players praise the game for its clever humor and absurd style. They also enjoy many puzzles and the co-op mode. Although the game is fairly short, players often return to have some fun again.
Who Is Pikuniku For?
Although Pikuniku may initially appear to be a perfect title designed for children, its themes and humor also appeal to adults. This is a title that successfully brings generations together, allowing both young and old to enjoy it.
Therefore, if you:
- are a fan of indie games,
- value original design and character.
- like unusual humor, absurdity and minimalism,
- are looking for something light but original,
- are a parent who wants to play with their child and have fun…
Then Pikuniku is the perfect choice for you!