Pepper Grinder is a dynamic indie action platformer developed by Ahr Ech and published by Devolver Digital. Released initially on March 28, 2024, for PC, Nintendo Switch, macOS, and Linux, with subsequent launches on PlayStation 5 and Xbox on August 6, 2024, this title offers a unique drilling mechanic that redefines platforming movement. Players dive into a world where burrowing and aerial traversal take center stage, delivering a brisk and visually distinct adventure.

Drill Through the Depths with Pepper Grinder

At the core of Pepper Grinder is its standout movement system. Players control Pepper, a shipwrecked treasure hunter, utilizing her trusty tool Grinder to burrow through the earth. The game compares drilling to swimming, allowing Pepper to propel herself through the ground like a dolphin in water. This fluid motion enables players to navigate terrain, dodge enemies, and burst back out to sail through the air, creating a high-paced rhythm that distinguishes the game from traditional pixel-based platformers.

While the game draws comparisons to precision titles like Super Meat Boy, Pepper Grinder focuses on variety and fluidity rather than punishing difficulty. The experience encompasses 19 distinct levels and four boss battles. Each stage presents a new environment, ranging from sandy beaches to treacherous mountains, scorching lava zones, frozen ice, and dilapidated villages. The challenge lies in mastering the drill's curve and mobility to traverse these diverse landscapes efficiently.

Story and Setting in Pepper Grinder

The narrative of Pepper Grinder is told visually rather than through dialogue. The adventure begins moments after Pepper's shipwreck, where her pirate booty is stolen by a group of Narlings—small, green, horned creatures up to no good. Led by a mysterious antagonist, these baddies have hidden the treasure across the island.

Pepper's journey is a relentless pursuit to reclaim her loot. The storytelling relies on environmental cues and small cutscenes to establish mood and context, keeping the narrative light and focused. This approach ensures that the player's attention remains on the action and the world-building provided by the distinct level designs.

Notable Features and Progression

Pepper Grinder includes a robust progression system hidden within its world map. As players drill through levels, they collect currency to visit shops located in each locale. These shops offer:

  • Costume Pieces: Customization options for Pepper's appearance.
  • Stickers: Unlockable decorations via a gacha machine.
  • Armor Shards: Items that can be applied to increase health, though the system requires grinding for these upgrades.

Exploration is key, as players must hunt for skull coins scattered throughout the levels. Some of these special coins are well-hidden, rewarding thorough exploration. Skull coins are essential for unlocking locked bonus levels across the game's stages, adding replay value beyond the main campaign.

Who Should Play Pepper Grinder?

Pepper Grinder is best suited for fans of indie platformers who appreciate unique movement mechanics and visual variety. With an average playtime of three to four hours, the game offers a brisk, "one-and-done" experience that doesn't overstays its welcome. Players looking for a tight, action-packed adventure with a distinct art style and a drill-based twist on the genre will find this title engaging. However, those seeking a long-form campaign or deep narrative may find the story light and the duration short.