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The Next Penelope

Wii U, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), Linux, Mac • 2015

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Quick resume

Set in a futuristic Odyssey, "The Next Penelope" is a fast paced action racing game with loud colors, an original story and a challenging risk-reward system. Weapons can be mixed and used at any time, but all these abilities cost vital energy!

Global score

71/100

Genres

Action, Indie, Racing, Shooter, Arcade, Adventure

Pros

  • Unique blend of racing and action
  • Challenging gameplay with high skill ceiling
  • Impressive visuals and soundtrack
  • Non-linear world selection
  • Local multiplayer for up to 4 players

Cons

  • Short main campaign
  • Steep difficulty curve and die-and-retry frustration
  • Camera zoom too close by default
  • No online multiplayer
  • Some control and ai balance issues

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players can choose the order of worlds to play and select upgrades, showing control over progression and playstyle."

  • Competence
    4

    "The game is challenging with a high skill ceiling, requiring mastery of controls, energy management, and boss patterns."

  • Competition
    2

    "Includes racing against AI opponents and local multiplayer, but no online competitive modes or ranked leaderboards."

  • Continuation
    1

    "Short main campaign (~2-3 hours) but with bonus challenges and local multiplayer that encourage extended play."

  • Cooperation
    3

    "Local multiplayer supports up to 4 players working in competitive or cooperative modes, but no online coop."

  • Creativity
    3

    "Players unlock and use various weapons and abilities creatively; some players experiment with different strategies."

  • Domination
    -2

    "Interactions focus on balanced competition and mutual challenge rather than exerting control or trash talk."

  • Escapism
    4

    "Futuristic sci-fi setting with Greek mythology theme provides immersive escapism from real life."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily out of interest and nostalgia for top-down racers and unique gameplay."

  • Experimenting
    3

    "Varied weapons and non-linear world selection encourage trying new tactics and approaches."

  • Exploration
    2

    "Players explore different planets and unlock bonus missions, though environments are mostly fixed tracks."

  • Expression
    1

    "Limited customization mainly through upgrades; no extensive avatar or visual personalization."

  • Fantasy
    5

    "Strong sci-fi and mythological fantasy theme with imaginative story and setting."

  • Fellowship
    2

    "Local multiplayer and community support exist but social connection is limited to offline play."

  • Growth
    4

    "Players develop skills, learn boss patterns, and upgrade their ship through XP and experience."

  • Health
    -5

    "No physical activity involved; sedentary gameplay typical of PC gaming."

  • Idle
    -3

    "Requires focused attention due to challenging gameplay and precise controls."

  • Intimacy
    -3

    "Social interactions are limited to local multiplayer; no deep emotional or online community bonding."

  • Leadership
    -4

    "No leadership or management roles; players act individually or competitively without guiding others."

  • Progression
    4

    "XP and upgrades system allows players to improve ship attributes and unlock abilities."

  • Relaxation
    -2

    "High difficulty and die-and-retry mechanics create tension rather than relaxation."

  • Sensation
    4

    "Bright colorful visuals, fast-paced action, and energetic soundtrack provide strong sensory stimulation."

  • Status
    -3

    "No online rankings or social recognition systems; achievements are mostly personal."

  • Story
    3

    "Narrative based on futuristic Greek mythology with story elements and character interactions."

  • Strategy
    3

    "Players must plan weapon use and energy management, and devise tactics for boss fights and races."

  • Thrill
    3

    "Fast-paced gameplay and challenging bosses create suspense and excitement."

  • Value
    0

    "Mixed reviews on price vs. content; short game but well-made, recommended on sale."

  • Violence
    3

    "Combat elements with weapons, explosions, and boss fights emphasize destruction."

  • Survival
    3

    "Energy management and avoiding death are key to progressing through levels and bosses."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026