Combining elements of classic 8- and 16-bit titles Dig Dug and Ecco the Dolphin might not immediately seem like a winning formula, but 2D side-scroller Pepper Grinder is a prime example of how following a somewhat left-field idea can produce something that feels new, exciting and, most of all, fun.

Playing as Pepper, a shipwrecked youngster on a quest to recover the treasure that the dastardly Narlings stole from her, you’ll wield the powerful Grinder, a superpowered drill-like tool that allows her to dig through walls and floors, glide through water, and defeat enemies. By experimenting with the Grinder’s abilities, you’ll explore 20+ levels filled with hidden treasure and puzzles galore as you work your way towards reclaiming your stolen booty.

Pepper Grinder‘s movement is its big selling point, as Pepper deftly cuts her way through pretty much any solid material that stands in her way, following trails of gems that highlight the optimal route, and launching herself across the screen very much like Ecco the Dolphin from SEGA’s 1992 classic. The drill has multiple uses depending on your current situation, and additional puzzle elements that force you to slow down and figure out how to cross the game’s many traps and obstacles provide a welcome change of pace from the otherwise fast-paced platforming. Most importantly, the controls are extremely easy to get to grips with and satisfying to master, with some of the more difficult levels requiring pinpoint accuracy that offer a decent level of challenge and a rewarding sense of achievement when you finally overcome them. If you’re in the mood for something action-packed but a little bit different from the usual platforming fare, Pepper Grinder might be right up your alley.

PLATFORM: PC, PS4/5, SWITCH, XBOX ONE/SERIES (REVIEWED) | RELEASE DATE: OUT NOW