Summer is all about finding those games that make you smile the second they hit the screen, and Tanuki: Pon's Summer [Steam Demo] lands firmly in the category of being of those titles.
The first thing that caught my attention wasn't the colorful world, or the charming characters. It was more like, "Wait... is that a tanuki pulling off some X Games stunts on a bike?"
Yes. Yes, it is.
And somehow, that sentence only scratches the surface of what this game has going on.
Tanuki: Pon's Summer puts players in control of Pon, a lovable tanuki who spends the summer exploring, delivering packages, helping locals, and pulling off BMX tricks across a vibrant Japanese-inspired countryside. The result is a game that feels equal parts adventure, life simulation, and arcade-style action.
Want to see what all the fuss is about? Check out my gameplay footage below and join me as I take Pon for a spin through this wonderfully weird summer adventure (demo).
Dreamcast Vibes
Oddly enough, the entire experience gave me some serious Dreamcast vibes. Especially when the music kicks up with rock once you're on the bike... grinding in more ways than one.
Maybe it's the bright colors. Maybe it's the quirky personality. Maybe it's the way the game isn't afraid to be weird and wonderful at the same time. Whatever the reason, it reminded me of the era when developers were constantly experimenting with creative ideas that made you stop and say, "I've never played anything quite like this before."
The BMX riding feels great, and there are plenty of opportunities to catch air, pull tricks, and zip through the environment. At the same time, there's a cozy atmosphere wrapped around everything like a warm summer blanket. You're never overwhelmed, but you're never bored either.
It's a unique balance.
Anime fans will appreciate the animations, playful energy and colorful presentation. BMX gamers will enjoy hopping on two wheels and exploring every corner of the map. Fans of Japanese games will probably find themselves completely charmed by the setting and its quirky cast of characters.
And if somebody happens to walk by while you're playing, don't be surprised if they stop, point at the screen, and ask:
"Is that a tanuki on a bike delivering packages?"
Again, the answer is yes. If they say racoon, technically that wouldn't be accurate but... it's all good.
The demo offers a solid taste of what the developers are cooking up and gives players a chance to get familiar with Pon's world before the full release arrives. From what I've seen so far, the complete game looks ready to take things to a whole notha level. (Seriously.)
The demo already feels packed with personality, but the full game appears ready to expand the world, activities, and adventures even further as you prepare the shrine for the big festival!
The Full Adventure Awaits
If the demo leaves you wanting more, you're not alone. Thankfully, the full release looks ready to crank up the fun, the exploration, and the BMX action in a big way.
Check out the official trailer below to see what's coming next.
Tanuki: Pon's Summer is shaping up to be one of those games that combines charm, creativity, and pure summer vibes into something memorable. Whether you're here for the BMX tricks, the cozy atmosphere, the anime-inspired energy, or simply because you want to see a tanuki riding a bicycle, this is definitely a demo worth checking out during Summer Of Gaming.
