Thank you Aksys Games for sending us a review code!

The Primal Orb is an ancient artifact that maintains order between chaos and balance. Upon discovering this relic, Kuna touches it. After making contact, the orb releases a spirit that possesses Tin. In order to restore order and save Tin, Kuna must roll the power crystal spheres back to their sunken bases throughout four worlds.

Each of the four worlds has nine regular levels with the tenth one featuring a time attack stage where Kuna attempts to free Tin from the evil spirit. Thankfully, you can take your time completing the other levels though they all have a recommended completion time. You can earn a star/award for completing it under par. (I have yet to earn this!) Other awards are given for not taking any damage or by finding all three of the shards hidden on each level. There’s plenty of replayability for perfectionists who want to collect everything or improve their completion speeds.

Don’t let the colorful and cute graphics fool you--this game is deceptively challenging. In the beginning, Kuna can roll around like a ball and jump around. Later in the game he’ll get fire, magnetism, and improved jumping abilities. Until then, he’ll have to avoid spikes and bounce off enemies while collecting glowing bits, hidden shards, and rolling the crystal spheres back into place. Some levels have one crystal while others have multiple to put back in place. Unfortunately, you only have a limited number of hits Kuna can take before having to restart the level or return to a checkpoint. Not all of the levels have checkpoints, though.

Like all platformer games, there are moving platforms to navigate around and some of them crumble away shortly after landing on them. Other platforms are not immediately visible and have to be activated before they can be used. There are many puzzle elements and accurate jumping is required to progress in this game. If you are looking for a relaxing game, you’ll definitely want to look elsewhere.

Other than long loading screens, this game runs great on the Switch. The characters are super cute and the 3D levels are colorful and well designed. The background music is upbeat and fits the theme of the world you’re in. The sound effects are fitting as well.

If you don’t mind cartoon violence and the premise of Tin being possessed by an evil spit, this title is pretty clean and family-friendly.

Tin and Kuna is available physically and digitally for $29.99. On Steam I have seen it on sale for as low as $20.99. If you’re up for a challenge this game will keep you on your toes. Speedrunners will find a lot to like. Those who are looking for a calm and relaxing game should skip this one.