Parents' Guide to Pode

There are plenty of games where you can compete with or against your buddies for dominance, but few and far between are the gaming experiences you can truly share with a friend. Pode, though, is one of those rare gems, a relaxing non-competitive puzzler that's best enjoyed with a friend by your side. The game's music and art design create a serene experience that's a stark contrast to the high-stress, competitive nature of most co-op games. The fun comes from working together, thinking out solutions for getting from Point A to Point B, and the sense of accomplishment that comes with moving forward. Sure, the game can be played alone, with a single player switching roles between Bulder and Glo on the fly, but the camaraderie and teamwork between two actual players, mirrored by the friendship and cooperation of the on-screen duo, is a big part of the magic of the game.

Pode is, at its core, a very simple puzzle game. Each character interacts with the environment in its own unique way. As a rock, Bulder affects mineral deposits on the ground and moves freely through pools of water, while the fallen star Glo can uncover things hidden in the shadows and cause plants to grow. There's a gradual difficulty curve that keeps some challenge in the game as players progress, but it never feels so difficult that it gets frustrating. Pode also has a certain charm that's hard to ignore, with players getting emotionally invested in the journey. It's a wonderful and surprisingly striking adventure, but it becomes something truly special when shared.