Tiny Garden: A Polly Pocket-Inspired Gardening Sim

Growing up in the ’90s, I have a special fondness for Polly Pocket, those tiny dollhouses that traveled everywhere with me. Tiny Garden takes me back to those days with its cozy blend of a gardening simulator and decoration game, all snugly fitting into something that reminds me of those iconic little cases. The game’s unique twist is that each in-game day is driven by a whimsical hand crank. It straddles the line between being a game and a toy, something to tinker with and enjoy. Although Tiny Garden officially releases on April 8, I got a sneak peek through its demo during the Steam Next Fest.

The charm of Tiny Garden lies in its magical moments. Imagine starting with the basics, planting radishes, carrots, and cacti, then moving on to tackle more complex flora that require strategic thinking. This is where the puzzle aspect kicks in; with each plant, you alter the soil, leading you to think ahead about your planting strategy. On top of that, you can trade plants for decorations to spruce up your miniature world, both inside and out, reminiscent of those delightful Polly Pocket sets.

But there’s more beneath the surface. The game weaves a gentle narrative, hinting at its history before it landed in your hands. As the developer, Ao Norte, points out on the Steam page, the toy has a past, rich with stories and connections. Through letters found within the game, players uncover a touching story, reminding us that objects we cherish carry the essence of stories and lives long past. Each discovery is more than just an item; it’s a window into these unseen narratives.

Playing Tiny Garden has been a joyous escape amidst the whirlwind of everyday life. Despite its simplicity, the game provides a clear mission: create. It gives you the freedom to build at your own pace, inviting you to enjoy the unexpected surprises it offers. For such a small package, Tiny Garden has a lot to offer and promises a delightful experience for those who embrace it.