Publisher Private Division and developer Evening Star have revealed that a kinetic 3D platformer, Penny’s Big Breakaway, will be launching in early 2024 for the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam.
Penny’s Big Breakaway puts players in control of the titular Penny, a street performer with big dreams; as she has her spin on what it takes to be a star. When Eddie the Emperor calls for new Palace Court Performers, Penny gets herself tangled in an audition that goes haywire. A strange encounter with a Cosmic String transforms Penny’s Yo-Yo into a living creature with an appetite for snacks and mayhem! Use Yo-Yo to help Penny clear her name, outrun the Emperor’s army of unrelenting penguins, and unravel the mystery of the Cosmic String.
While the developer’s name may not immediately ring a bell, Evening Star is the studio headed by Christian Whitehead (also known by his alias Taxman) who is most recognized for his work as the lead developer of Sega’s Sonic Mania.
▍Penny’s Big Breakaway Announcement Trailer
▍Penny’s Big Breakaway Gameplay
The game follows Penny and her yo-yo who must battle Emperor Eddie and his army of penguins after causing a stir. Take control of Penny & Yo-Yo in a kinetic 3D platformer bursting with expressive gameplay! Showcase your catalog of tricks and chain impressive combos to deliver Penny & Yo-Yo’s perfect breakout performance.
The game trailer featured a variety of actions Penny has in her arsenal, with the power of her dog(?)-like companion Yo-Yo. As Penny’s means of attack and way of getting around, Yo-Yo can transform into a wall-running bike, grappling hook, aerial hover device, and many other things. Feeding Yo-Yo with snack power-ups temporarily further enhances its powers, granting it the ability to improve movement speed, protect Penny from harm, and much more.
The game will also feature a Time Attack Mode outside of the previewed Story Mode, which allows players to test their platforming prowess against increasingly tight speed-running challenges. The game mode allows players to also redeem coins for bonus items, secret stages, and more unlockable extras!
