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Growing up in the ’90s, I have a soft spot for Polly Pocket—those miniature dollhouses that I used to take everywhere. Tiny Garden beautifully captures that essence, presenting a relaxing gardening simulator and decorating game, all housed within a charming Polly Pocket-like setup. In this game, the days unfold with the turn of a hand crank, making it feel as much like a playful toy as it does a puzzle to solve. Though Tiny Garden is set to officially release on April 8, I had the chance to explore its demo during the Steam Next Fest, and it’s been a captivating experience.
This delightful little toy is brimming with enchantment, primarily through the joy of planting. You start your gardening journey with the likes of radishes, carrots, and cacti, gradually progressing to more sophisticated botanical environments. Herein lies the game’s puzzle aspect: the soil’s condition evolves based on previously grown plants, requiring you to strategize about what to plant next and where. As you cultivate your garden, you can trade plants for delightful decorations, enhancing your own Polly Pocket-inspired world both inside and out.
Beneath the charming gameplay is a narrative waiting to be uncovered. As developer Ao Norte explains on the Steam store page, “Before you got your hands on Tiny Garden, others have played with this toy.” Through a series of letters, players piece together a touching story, reminding us that objects can be more than mere items—they are vessels of lived experiences and shared tales. Each new find within the game offers more than just a decorative item or plant; it provides a glimpse into deeper connections.
Exploring Tiny Garden has been a pure joy amid the backdrop of a hectic world. Despite the rich variety in activities and decorating options, the game’s goals remain focused on creation—inviting you to embrace a leisurely pace and delight in the surprises that spring forth. It’s a compact yet captivating experience that’s full of charm, waiting to be discovered.
