Giant Bomb kicks off 2026 reviews with Big Hops scoring 80/100. Reviewer Chuck Zimmerheld calls Luckshot’s frog platformer ‘an absolute joy’ blending tight controls, expressive movement, and charming worlds across 10-12 hour adventure. Multiplatform launch hits PS5, Switch, Switch 2 simultaneously.
Released January 8, 2026 after strong demo reception, Big Hops follows frog protagonist Hop through vibrant bug worlds using tongue grapples, plant traversal, and physics puzzles. Giant Bomb praises traversal creativity distinguishing from Mario/Spyro clones through frog-specific mechanics.
Core Mechanics Breakdown
- Tongue Grapple: Swing, pull levers, graffiti, collectibles
- Plant Traversal: Bouncy mushrooms, vine swings, flower launches
- Physics Puzzles: Void worlds with gravity manipulation
- Dark Drips: Optional upgrades (health/stamina/compasses)
- Challenge Rooms: Skill tests rewarding bonus collectibles
Giant Bomb Review Highlights
| Aspect | Praise |
|---|---|
| Platforming | ‘Tight, expressive controls absolute joy’ |
| Traversal | ‘Creative frog mechanics stand out’ |
| Worlds | ‘Charming art style, vibrant colors’ |
| Length | ’10-12 hours respectable runtime’ |
| Polish | ‘Smooth performance across platforms’ |
80 score reflects strong debut versus AAA platformers. Voice acting, soundtrack, NPC designs earn specific praise alongside void physics segments offering genre-best movement freedom.
Critical Reception Consensus
Early reviews align with Giant Bomb:
- TheSixthAxis: ‘Fresh 3D platformer with quirky abilities’
- GoodGameLobby: ‘Game of the Year contender, decade’s best indie platformer’
- Nintendo World Report: ‘Smooth collectibles, optional upgrades’
Luckshot Games Profile
Solo developer Chris Riggert delivers breakout:
- First commercial release after portfolio work
- Multiplatform launch (PS5/Switch/Switch 2)
- Demo success built launch anticipation
- Day-one patches addressed launch glitches
Standout Features
- Full voice acting across quirky NPCs
- Mixtape soundtrack unlock system
- Custom outfits/hats/dyes
- 24 trinkets via Dark Drip choices
- Three distinct world conflicts
Genre Context 2026
3D platformer renaissance:
- Big Hops joins Astro Bot, Donkey Kong Bananza
- Indie scene rivals AAA movement quality
- Frog mechanics freshen collectathon formula
- Switch 2 native support broadens reach
FAQs
80/100 good score?
Excellent for indie debut. Giant Bomb reserved with 80s, signals genuine quality.
Switch 2 version smooth?
Native support confirmed across reviews. Demo performance exceeded expectations.
Pay-to-win elements?
Optional Dark Drip upgrades. Core platforming accessible without completionism.
Length appropriate?
10-12 hours praised as ‘respectable’ versus 30+ hour bloat.
Day-one patches needed?
Minor glitches fixed pre-launch. First-person bug isolated incident.
Demo still available?
Steam/PSN demos live. Full game recommended post-patches.
Soundtrack standout?
Mixtape unlocks universally praised. Duster Bluffs track highlight.
Conclusion
Giant Bomb’s 80 crowns Big Hops early 2026 standout. Luckshot delivers genre-best frog platforming blending traversal innovation, charming worlds, perfect runtime. Expressive controls satisfy movement enthusiasts while optional systems welcome casual explorers. Solo developer punches above AAA weight – 3D platformer renaissance gains breakout star.