Pizza Tower
- January 26, 2023
- GreenX_GB
- 20h median play time
A brilliantly energetic and creative platformer that doesn't just do right by its inspiration Wario Land, but actually surpasses it.
Pizza Tower is a 2D platformer mainly inspired by Wario Land and Earthworm Jim. The game has over-the-top hand-drawn animations and music. You play as Peppino Spaghetti, a manic pizza man with many abilities like charging, super jumping and dashing. Peppino has to go up each floor of the tower by finding keys, saving toppins folks and getting as many points as possible!
Reviews
- music4,027 mentions
- 57 % positive mentions
- 42 % neutral mentions
- 1 % negative mentions
The music in *Pizza Tower* has been universally praised, with many reviewers highlighting its energetic and catchy nature that perfectly complements the game's fast-paced gameplay and whimsical art style. Tracks like "It's Pizza Time!" and "The Death That I Deservioli" are frequently mentioned as standout pieces, contributing to an overall soundtrack that is described as one of the best in gaming. The combination of diverse musical styles, clever sampling, and high production quality has made the soundtrack a significant draw for players, often leading them to listen to it outside of the game itself.
“This game is definitely worth every cent and then some for the soundtrack.”
“The music overall has been great and everyone can agree.”
“The soundtrack is absolutely amazing.”
“The music is stolen.”
“The soundtrack is under materia collective, an abusive music copyright troll group that is viciously anti-fan works.”
“The music helps with this a ton as well, with each level's soundtrack matching not just the theming of the level but also the 'feel' of the gameplay.”
- gameplay2,374 mentions
- 48 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 1 % negative mentions
The gameplay of "Pizza Tower" has been widely praised for its fast-paced, fluid mechanics that blend elements from classic platformers like Wario Land and Sonic. Players appreciate the unique level designs, each introducing new mechanics that keep the experience fresh and engaging, while the charming art style and catchy soundtrack enhance the overall enjoyment. Many reviews highlight the game's addictive nature, with a ranking system that encourages replayability and mastery of its intricate controls, making it a standout title in the indie platformer genre.
“Gameplay is always diverse with each level having its own crazy dynamics and gimmicks.”
“The gameplay is super fluid and movement feels great, combat system is fun and the chef tasks and p ranks can be a real challenge.”
“Every level introduces a new mechanic and it always feels fun and makes you wonder what they will try to pull off with that mechanic.”
“The music is great, the art style even more so, yet the gameplay to me is just... meh.”
“I just didn't gel with the gameplay.”
“The gameplay was very hard and stiff and getting a p-rank is impossible.”
- graphics1,882 mentions
- 51 % positive mentions
- 48 % neutral mentions
- 1 % negative mentions
The graphics of "Pizza Tower" have received widespread acclaim for their unique and vibrant art style, reminiscent of 90s cartoons like "Ren & Stimpy" and "Courage the Cowardly Dog." Players appreciate the expressive animations and the chaotic, yet charming, aesthetic that enhances the fast-paced gameplay. While some may find the intentionally crude, MS Paint-like visuals off-putting, many agree that they contribute significantly to the game's humor and overall appeal, making it a standout title in the indie platformer genre.
“The art style is amazing, the platforming is genius, and the charm of the game really makes it unique.”
“Pizza tower is a beautifully put together 2D collectathon platformer with expressive and charming visuals, a superb OST, and buttery slick movement that allows the game to feel beautifully satisfying when bouncing around the stage or performing combos on huge waves of enemies.”
“I can see how the game has a cult following, but the art style is just so ugly, I know it's intentional but it just got under my skin.”
“The graphics are another major factor of it, Pizza Tower's sprites look unfinished and it shouldn't be any other way, every character is so expressive and they're all hilarious, I don't think I've seen a character lose their shit like I have Peppino.”
“The art style is so wacky and goofy, the character designs are top-notch, and the levels are so fun to replay.”
- humor1,789 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in "Pizza Tower" is widely praised for its absurdity and charm, drawing comparisons to 90s cartoons like "Ren and Stimpy" and "Courage the Cowardly Dog." Players find the game's quirky animations, hilarious character expressions, and witty dialogue to be consistently entertaining, often leading to genuine laughter throughout gameplay. The combination of fast-paced action, a catchy soundtrack, and a plethora of visual gags contributes to a uniquely funny experience that resonates with fans of slapstick and nostalgic humor.
“Charming cartoony art style, fun and fast gameplay, and great humor.”
“The humor, soundtrack and art are amazing, really.”
“The game's inane sense of humor gives it a charm unlike many others, delivering laughs, bewilderment, and slight eeriness in some cases.”
“Not funny!!!!!!!!!”
“You're not funny!”
“Unfunny rat”
- story424 mentions
- 30 % positive mentions
- 68 % neutral mentions
- 3 % negative mentions
The story of "Pizza Tower" is generally described as simple and straightforward, centering on Peppino Spaghetti's quest to save his pizzeria from the villainous Pizza Face. While many reviewers note that the narrative lacks depth, they appreciate its comedic and wacky elements, which complement the game's fast-paced gameplay and vibrant art style. Overall, the story serves as a lighthearted backdrop that enhances the fun and chaotic experience rather than being a focal point.
“Amazing story, perfect animation, character building is incredible; all the scenes are used to their full potential.”
“The characters, story, mechanics, art style, music, and quality of the game are all phenomenal.”
“The story is incredibly simplistic, but it gets the job done.”
“The premise holds potential for quirky storytelling, but the lack of depth and character development leaves the game feeling hollow and disconnected from any sense of purpose.”
“The story practically doesn't exist; a struggling pizza shop owner finds himself the target of a gigantic nuclear laser pointed at his pizza shop, so he instinctively rushes headlong towards the source of the danger, the titular pizza tower.”
“The game lacks much story, but that doesn't matter; the game isn't trying to tell an interesting story, it's just presenting you with high-energy excitement from beginning to end.”
- replayability345 mentions
- 53 % positive mentions
- 46 % neutral mentions
- 1 % negative mentions
The game "Pizza Tower" is widely praised for its exceptional replayability, with many players highlighting the engaging level design, numerous secrets, and a ranking system that encourages repeated playthroughs to achieve higher scores and unlock collectibles. Despite its relatively short main story, the game offers a wealth of challenges, including p-ranks and achievements, making it appealing to both casual players and completionists. Additionally, the active modding community further enhances its replay value, providing endless opportunities for new experiences.
“Couldn't recommend it enough, has quite a bit of replayability, awesome music, level design, characters and everything is just perfect!”
“The replay value is some of the best I've ever seen, there are multiple things to do and collect in every level, and it doesn't feel like a drag to replay them.”
“The game has so much depth and replayability thanks to the S and P ranks meaning that I've got even more to play with even after beating the game.”
“The game has very good gameplay but it can be very repetitive, the art style looks low quality but in a good way, also the main character (Peppino) is very expressive and goofy, the levels are replayable and designed so you can go fast, the game's story is simple but charming, and the music is amazing.”
“While Pizza Tower is a relatively short game to complete, there is so much replay value and secrets to find.”
“The basic story is short and sweet, about 20 stages long, but the game is oozing replayability and is clearly geared towards a speedrunning playstyle.”
- emotional82 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players overwhelmingly describe the emotional experience of the game as profound and impactful, often expressing feelings of joy, nostalgia, and even sadness. Many reviewers highlight the game's ability to evoke strong emotions through its charming characters, engaging gameplay, and exceptional soundtrack, with several noting moments that made them cry or feel deeply connected to the protagonist, Peppino. Overall, the game is praised for its unique blend of humor, heart, and adrenaline, creating an emotional journey that resonates with players in unexpected ways.
“I cried when Peppino told Pizza Face, 'Pizza Face, I am the pizza tower.'”
“This game made me feel emotions I haven't felt in a long time while playing.”
“Everything about the game comes together to create one of the most fun, heartfelt, creative, and endearing experiences I've played in a long time.”
- grinding72 mentions
- 4 % positive mentions
- 38 % neutral mentions
- 58 % negative mentions
The grinding aspect of the game is generally viewed as enjoyable rather than tedious, with many players appreciating the opportunity to replay levels to discover new strategies and secrets. While some find certain challenges, particularly achieving p-ranks, to be time-consuming and occasionally tedious, the overall experience is often described as rewarding and engaging, encouraging players to invest significant time into mastering the game. However, several reviewers note that pursuing 100% completion can feel overwhelming, suggesting that a more casual approach may enhance enjoyment.
“No grindy, repetitive achievements like 'do x thing y number of times' etc. Topping it all off, your achievements are showcased and tracked in trophy rooms in-game, and there are rewards for collecting all of them.”
“A bit grindy sometimes.”
“A bit grindy sometimes.”
“You'll need a second life for grinding.”
“The game is amazing and worth the money, just don't go for p-ranks on your first playthrough (like I did) because it makes the game less fun over time and more tedious.”
“Sometimes slogging through levels trying to 100% everything feels rather tedious.”
- character development52 mentions
- 54 % positive mentions
- 40 % neutral mentions
- 6 % negative mentions
Character development in the game is characterized by its whimsical and inventive designs, particularly the main character, Peppino Spaghetti, whose expressive animations and humorous traits resonate with players. While the character designs are praised for their charm and creativity, some reviews note a lack of depth in storytelling, leaving the characters feeling somewhat disconnected from a larger narrative purpose. Overall, the game's art style and character design contribute significantly to its fun and engaging atmosphere, despite some critiques regarding narrative depth.
“The character designs are inventive, with pizza-themed protagonists and enemies that are both hilarious and endearing.”
“The game is incredibly endearing and comedic in its animation style, character design, and the expressions and emotions that the main character, Peppino Spaghetti, expresses when performing certain actions.”
“The sprite work for enemies, levels, and especially the character designs are striking and iconic, with characters overflowing with personality despite not saying a word.”
“The premise holds potential for quirky storytelling, but the lack of depth and character development leaves the game feeling hollow and disconnected from any sense of purpose.”
“It feels incredibly messy, and while I adore the graphics, music, and character designs (everything feels like a fever dream, and I love it), the gameplay just isn't for me in any way...”
“Never witnessed a better character development between an Italian and a giant rat.”
- optimization40 mentions
- 30 % positive mentions
- 63 % neutral mentions
- 8 % negative mentions
The optimization of "Pizza Tower" has received mixed feedback from users. While many praise its smooth performance on lower-end systems and the game's design that encourages speedrunning and skill mastery, others report significant performance issues, particularly related to specific outfits and graphical effects, which can hinder gameplay. Overall, the developers are actively working on patches to address these concerns, indicating a commitment to improving the game's performance.
“This is a platformer designed for time attacks, optimization, and perfection.”
“The simplicity of the controls masks a surprisingly deep and versatile moveset that always has room for personal improvement and optimization.”
“It has an amazing art style with exaggerated animations, a banger soundtrack, a powerful moveset that gets you through the level about as swiftly as I consume an entire pizza, and levels that are perfectly optimized for the moveset.”
“Pizza Tower is incredibly enjoyable; however, recently the game has some serious performance issues, enough to make it pretty much unplayable.”
“General performance issues on less than high-end computers, particularly with patterned clothing and full-screen effects (like darkness), are littered throughout, though I’m happy this game is actively being patched to fix these issues.”
“Wearing certain costumes messes up the game's performance when walking past boss doors and fighting bosses.”
- atmosphere37 mentions
- 41 % positive mentions
- 51 % neutral mentions
- 8 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of "Pizza Tower" is widely praised for its vibrant, whimsical, and chaotic design, reminiscent of 90s cartoons, which enhances the overall gameplay experience. The game's diverse and catchy soundtrack complements its zany visuals, creating an immersive environment that keeps players engaged throughout their pizza-filled adventure. Reviewers highlight the unique blend of humor, creativity, and expressive animations that contribute to a fun and inviting atmosphere, making it a standout title in the platforming genre.
“The game's whimsical soundtrack adds to its carefree atmosphere and keeps players interested on their trip through a pizza-filled adventure.”
“Pizza Tower is a wonderfully chaotic game that throws logic and reason out the window in favor of creating a fun, goofy atmosphere and vibe.”
“There are many platformers, there are many competent platformers, but there are few that bring such an intensely creative and fun visual style, soundtrack, and atmosphere the way Pizza Tower does.”
“Zany and left of field are an understatement when describing the story and atmosphere of this game.”
“Pizza Tower, on the other hand, makes a fine first phase, a pretty good second phase, and manages to get everything wrong on the last phase. Now, when you think of a climactic final boss, what do you picture? Because if you said boss rush, then you share the same mind as the person who made the final boss of Pizza Tower. Yes, you read the review correctly: Pizza Tower, the game where everyone says the final boss is amazing, is just a poorly executed boss rush hidden under a good atmosphere and great music.”
“Don't get me wrong, the music standalone I imagine is okay, but it does not match the atmosphere of what is being presented.”
- stability18 mentions
- 17 % positive mentions
- 6 % neutral mentions
- 78 % negative mentions
Overall, the stability of the game is mixed, with some players reporting minor bugs and glitches, particularly related to music and controller functionality. While many users experienced crashes at launch and occasional progress loss, others noted a generally smooth performance with polished gameplay. Despite these issues, the game is still recommended for its fun factor and aesthetic appeal.
“Super cool, great graphics, great mechanics, secret moves, and almost no glitches.”
“Yes, because it runs great and is funny too.”
“Not too buggy; there are still problems being worked on, for example, some clothes lag the game, but it is nothing game-breaking.”
“It's buggy... just at launch it will crash 9 out of 10 times.”
“It's a little buggy though; I lose my progress sometimes.”
“The game itself is a big terrarium for bugs/glitches.”
- monetization10 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The monetization of Pizza Tower is generally viewed positively, with players appreciating its lack of aggressive cash-grab tactics commonly seen in larger titles. Unlike many modern games, it is praised for its truthful advertising and commitment to delivering a fun experience without excessive monetization schemes. Overall, it stands out as a refreshing alternative in a market often dominated by exploitative practices.
“Fake advertisement.”
“Misleading advertising.”
“Pizza Tower is a masterpiece that gives me hope that modern game development isn't doomed to lazy monetization schemes and repetitive trend chasing.”