SOPA – Tale of the Stolen Potato is a delightful new game from StudioBando that invites players into a magical world through the eyes of Miho. When Miho steps into the pantry to fetch a potato for his grandmother’s soup, he is unexpectedly transported to a fantastical land brimming with wonder and adventure. In this narrative journey, Miho must retrace the steps of a mysterious traveler who came before him. Each time he returns to the kitchen with an ingredient, he finds that the world has changed in surprising ways.

A Tale as Old as Ghibli

Inspired by the enchanting worlds of Spirited Away, The Little Prince, and Coco, SOPA features a lush, animated aesthetic that draws players into its magical realism. The 3D environments, set in the depths of South America, are quite rich. StudioBando shows off their unique style with cell-shaded models and bright contrasts. It is quite literally like looking through the eyes of a child, with magic around every bend. SOPA also features a rich and beautiful soundtrack, showcasing Latin American beats that really immerse you in the experience.

The mechanics are relatively simple and optimized for Xbox controllers, but still plays well on PC. SOPA‘s gameplay is mostly built on logic puzzles and the occasional rhythm sequence – nothing too complicated and suitable for all ages. Where SOPA will really shine in its full release is in its story.

This story is not just about a simple quest for ingredients. It delves into themes of family, adventure, and the vital lessons we pass along to future generations. StudioBando claims that the narrative unfolds like a comforting bowl of hot soup on a cold day, rich with the warmth of cherished memories. As Miho explores this magical realm, he will encounter endless deserts, floating mountains, and talking creatures. All this while outsmarting thieves and forming connections with a variety of quirky characters.

SOPA‘s demo only goes as far as finding a secret hideout in the Amazon Rainforest. There are a couple of hints toward other puzzles and locations that will be in the full release, but its more than enough to get a good taste of what the game will have to offer.

Grab the demo during Steam’s Next Fest and try it out for yourself. Follow StudioBando on their social media platforms for updates.