Gaming on a Budget – PikuNiku (Video)

In our ongoing Gaming on a Budget videos, we are looking at relatively cheap games you an pick up on the Nintendo eShop and play through alone or with a friend. Today we are looking at one of my younger sons favourite games, PikuNiku. PikuNiku is a hand drawn game where you solve puzzles in a small but detailed world. As you solve puzzles, complete requests, and defeat bosses, you will slowly uncover the interesting things happening in this colourful world!

And there is lots to enjoy here, in both single and multiplayer. The number of great mechanics is outstanding. Instead of going back to the well for the same 2 or 3 ideas, the game continues to innovate with harder, and more unique puzzles requiring more thought and more precise movements. But that doesn’t mean PikuNiku is a hard game. It is far from it. Instead, you get something that is fun for all ages, while remaining accessible to children as young as 7. Sure, my son required some help from time-to-time, but overall handled each mission mostly on his own. It was just a few tricky platforming moments that, if given enough time, I’m sure he could beat on his own.

Here is what the eShop says,

Pikuniku is an absurdly wonderful puzzle-exploration game that takes place in a strange but playful world where not everything is as happy as it seems.
Help peculiar characters overcome struggles, uncover a deep state conspiracy, and start a fun little revolution in this delightful dystopian adventure! A Vibrant Adventure for All: Explore a colorful world at your own pace, help quirky characters with their unusual requests, and solve clever puzzles that will challenge both kids and adults. Charming Cast: Meet a cast of memorable characters on your journey, each with their own problems and eccentricities to accommodate along the way. Cooperative Mode: Join up with family and friends for local multiplayer fun in custom cooperative levels and challenges.

No matter how you slice it, PikuNiku is one game we highly recommend, and it’s cheap too!