Growing up in the ’90s, Polly Pocket was my constant companion—those adorable miniature dollhouses fit perfectly into my pocket and my imagination. Now, reliving that cherished childhood memory, Tiny Garden emerges as a delightful blend of gaming and nostalgia. This enchanting gardening simulator, set within a Polly Pocket-like shell, operates through a charming hand crank. It’s equal parts game and toy, offering a puzzle-like experience and endless possibilities to explore. Although Tiny Garden isn’t officially launching until April 8th, I had the chance to dive into its demo during the Steam Next Fest, and it has been quite the experience.
What truly captivates about Tiny Garden is its magical atmosphere, starting with the gardening experience itself. Initially, you engage in growing simple plants like radishes, carrots, and cacti. However, soon you’ll find yourself immersed in cultivating flora that require more intricate environments. This is where the game’s puzzle nature shines—since the soil transforms based on previously grown plants, strategic thinking becomes key as you decide what to plant next. As you nurture these plants, you can also acquire them to trade for both interior and exterior decorations, enhancing your miniature world within this Polly Pocket-style toy.
Peeling back the playful exterior, Tiny Garden narrates a touching story. “Others before you have enjoyed playing with this toy,” developer Ao Norte shares on the Steam page. “Through discovering letters, you unravel a story that warms the heart and sheds light on how objects connect us to past lives and shared memories. Each new reveal offers more than mere décor—it provides a window into deeper relationships and histories.”
Personally, I find Tiny Garden to be a delightful escape, a simple joy amidst life’s chaos. While the game brims with decorative options and tasks, its essence gently encourages creativity. It whispers, “Create at your leisure,” inviting you to be surprised by the delightful discoveries within its tiny confines. Tiny Garden is a charming treasure, packed with endless delight and creativity.