Computer The Plucky Squire Review

North American Launch: September 17, 2024
European Launch: September 17, 2024
Published by: Devolver Digital
Created by: All Possible Futures
Game Type: Action-adventure
Available on: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Official Website: https://thepluckysquire.com/


In this tale, Pip, the brave Squirrel hero of a kids' storybook, guards the realm of Whimsy from the wicked wizard Grumblesnort. When the villain learns his predetermined fate, he physically boots Pip out of the book to change the story in his favor. Our courageous hero remains hopeful as he embarks on a quest to restore the book's joyful ending. He'll move between the flat pages and the three-dimensional world outside with help from his quirky friends.



The Plucky Squire's concept of an action-adventure game mixing 2D and 3D gameplay isn't groundbreaking. The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds played with this idea ten years ago, and this new game's story uses familiar adventure themes. However, All Possible Futures has brought a fresh spin to the genre. Pip's journey as a literal storybook hero is shaken up by breaking the fourth wall and taking the adventure (and gameplay) into a new dimension. Whimsy is full of unique and odd characters, from a wizard-DJ to metal-loving trolls. This cast of characters brings the game world to life, even if some parts feel familiar. The Plucky Squire manages to feel both nostalgic and new at the same time. All Possible Futures also delivers a visually stunning 2D/3D hybrid game. Whimsy's varied settings are shown in colorful detail, looking like pages from a children's picture book. When Pip jumps out of the book into the real world, the 3D areas are packed with items from a child's room, from toys to stickers. A lively soundtrack adds to the game's cheerful mood.



The Plucky Squire's main appeal is its mix of 2D and 3D gameplay. In 2D, you'll explore Whimsy's locations from above, like classic Zelda games, fighting enemies and solving puzzles. These happen across book pages in a clever way, with pages turning as you move from one area to the next.

Pip can also leap out of the book at certain spots to explore the 3D world outside. These areas offer a bit more freedom to roam but sometimes involve hopping between dimensions to progress and find helpful items for their quest.


The dimension-switching mechanic is well-balanced, providing playtime in both 2D and 3D worlds. The game includes some light RPG elements, with unlockable moves and upgrades to Pip's skills. However, this RPG aspect feels a bit underdeveloped. For example, Pip's friends rarely do much besides chatting, making you wonder why they're there at all.

Besides dimension-switching, The Plucky Squire mixes in other gameplay styles through mini-games. From boxing matches reminiscent of Punch-Out!! to rhythm-based showdowns, these nods to classic games add extra fun.


Despite this variety, the gameplay can sometimes feel repetitive. Some puzzles aren't challenging enough, and the game's tendency to over-explain might annoy experienced players. However, this accessibility makes The Plucky Squire a good starting point for younger players or those new to action-adventure games.


At its best, The Plucky Squire is a heartwarming adventure that lets players experience a unique story across multiple dimensions. The smooth shifts between 2D and 3D, along with lovable characters and creative gameplay, make for a memorable journey. However, the occasional hand-holding and repetitive puzzle design can take away from the overall experience.


For those seeking nostalgic gameplay with a modern twist, The Plucky Squire offers an adventure worth exploring that's close to being a real page-turner, even if it doesn't quite reach the level of more complex challenges.

• Charming storybook presentation
• Fun dimension-switching mechanic
• Mini-games inspired by classic titles
• Some underdeveloped features
• Too much hand-holding at times