Pumpkin Jack Pax Online 2020 Preview

September 12, 2020 at 8:00pm
By Jason Stettner

This is a spooky type of 3D platformer where you play as Jack, the mythical pumpkin lord. It’s quite charming with a slightly grim aspect to it. Despite the grim element, it’s still something that comes across as appropriate for all ages.

It somewhat feels like MediEvil in that regard. It just has that slightly creepier edge to it which is definitely fun. As part of the Pax Online event there was a demo available that presented a single level to play. This is actually a game I’ve had my eye on for quite awhile, even having had an interview with the developer behind it earlier in the year.

This game’s style definitely gives off the vibe of an older generation, but with the style of a modern experience. It’s quite wonderful, and a lot of fun to roll through. You’re basically hopping along platforms, smashing enemies and even taking on the odd boss.

You’re trying to evade traps, drink from cauldrons for health and checkpoints or even send out a crow to deal with enemies. You’ll chat with some of the creatures of these darkened woods, and explore some very creepy areas. They nail the atmosphere and aesthetic with this one, it’s really quite cool.

It feels large in scope yet is a linear experience. I liked the combative elements of this, whether I was smashing things or enemy creatures. It mostly had controller support yet I had to hit the odd Q to get the crow out there which was required in some situations. I felt they had a good balance of movement based challenges and combat sequences.

You could tell this was a tutorial situation, as it does a fine job of teaching you the basics while also being somewhat simple. It has some flashy sequences, that boss encounter I mentioned prior and many unique areas that I ran through. It looks really cool visually and was a lot of fun to play. Definitely a stand out from this event, that’s for sure. There are even cool small puzzle segments with a tad bit of pumpkin head detaching, that was neat.

There’s just quite a lot to this and I’m eager to see the full experience for this one. It seemed very polished, and basically ready to go. It’ll provide a decent challenge, while again being something that I think is accessible to all. This has a cool lead character, an interesting cast of critters and a very atmospheric landscape to explore. Be sure to check out our Pax Online 2020 hub for additional coverage from the event in regards to the games, previews and interviews we’ll be showcasing.

Read our Pumpkin Jack Interview
View our Pax Online 2020 Hub