Photo: Tour de Pizza
“It’s a standout “Nintendo platformer” that breaks convention, and surprisingly, it’s not made by Nintendo.”
Tour de Pizza, an independent game development studio, has recently released a highly acclaimed 2D platformer called Pizza Tower. The game features a unique storyline where players control Peppino Spaghetti, a pizza chef, as he embarks on a mission to defeat a sentient floating pie that threatens to destroy his pizzeria. Developed by a small team led by designer McPig, Pizza Tower has received praise for its expressive and grotesque art style.
One notable aspect of Pizza Tower is its soundtrack, which was largely composed by a first-time composer and a high school student. The game’s soundtrack has been recognized as one of the best in 2023.
Pizza Tower has gained popularity since its release in January, currently holding the second-highest user rating among all 2023 releases on the popular gaming platform Steam. The gameplay of Pizza Tower draws inspiration from the classic game Wario Land 4, with its 20 stages divided into two halves. In the first half, players can explore at a leisurely pace, collecting pizza topping buddies, unlocking treasures, and discovering secret rooms. The second half, known as “Pizza Time,” introduces a time limit as the level collapses, adding a sense of urgency and excitement to the gameplay.
What sets Pizza Tower apart is its fast-paced and exhilarating speed, reminiscent of Sonic the Hedgehog. Unlike Sonic, however, Pizza Tower provides players with ample space to explore and does not impede their momentum with obstacles. The controls are simple yet precise, allowing players to perform wall-running, wall-jumping, and diving under ledges with ease. The game rewards players for completing levels quickly and efficiently, encouraging a racing game-like experience.
In addition to its thrilling gameplay, Pizza Tower stands out for its commitment to exploring new abilities and sensations. Throughout the game, players encounter various transformations and unique mechanics that add depth and variety to the experience. The art style of Pizza Tower is visually striking, combining elements of dream-like imagery with a touch of nostalgia from classic cartoons. The animations and movements of the main character, Peppino, add to his personality and bring the game to life.
Pizza Tower’s soundtrack further enhances the overall experience, with its funky and fierce tunes reminiscent of Dreamcast-era Sega games. The game’s humor and clever jokes also contribute to its charm, making it a truly enjoyable and entertaining experience.
Overall, Pizza Tower showcases the successful execution of an homage game, capturing the spirit of classic platformers while injecting its own raw and lively elements. It is a standout title that prioritizes fun, speed, and exploration, making it a must-play for fans of the genre.