POPUCOM — Review Summary

08/06/25

POPUCOM is a vibrant cooperative puzzle-platformer from Sonnori, launched on June 2, 2025. We analyzed all 1,699 user reviews on Steam (as of the time of writing) to understand how players have received the game: what works well, what sparks debate, and who this game is best suited for.

Overall Impression

POPUCOM has been warmly received:

1,493 reviews (88%) are positive
206 (12%) are negative
In 6 cases, players reported refunds

This is a strong approval rate, especially for a cooperative game. However, some criticism remains, ranging from optimization issues to content-related remarks.

What Players Praise

True Cooperative Gameplay
POPUCOM is designed as a mandatory co-op experience, with most of its content requiring two players. Players praise the tight coordination and joint problem-solving in both puzzles and combat, which make the game unique and engaging.
Simple Yet Unique Mechanics
The gameplay combines shooting colored bubbles, changing object colors, platforming, and puzzles. New tools like drones and extendable arms gradually unlock, keeping the experience fresh. Many describe the game as intuitive and clean.
Visual Style and Polish
Many compare POPUCOM’s bright, cartoonish style to Splatoon, praising its crisp UI and smooth animations. Reviews highlight the polish and attention to detail.
Constant Evolution
The game doesn’t stagnate. Each new mechanic is introduced at the right time and complements what’s already been learned, maintaining player interest and a feeling of growth.
Accessible for Everyone
It’s perfect for couples, parents with kids, or friends with varying skill levels. It’s often recommended as a great “first co-op game.”

Criticisms

No Single-Player Mode
You cannot play POPUCOM alone; a second player is required to progress. This can be inconvenient for those who want to play solo or lack a regular partner.
Optimization Issues (Especially on Lower-End PCs)
Some players report frame drops, crashes, and camera or physics bugs. These issues are more common in reviews from Chinese players or laptop users.
Interface and Settings
Complaints about cluttered UI, lack of control options, and confusing menus surface occasionally. These issues are minor but affect overall experience.
Short Campaign and Weak Party Mode
Some find the main campaign too short (4–6 hours), and the Party Mode for 3–4 players uninspired and limited, with few levels and simple structure.
Price
A few reviews say the price doesn’t match the content, especially given the lack of solo play options.

Refunds

In 6 cases, players reported refunds. That’s about 0.35% of all reviews, indicating a very low level of dissatisfaction.

Conclusion

POPUCOM is a vibrant, well-crafted cooperative adventure built on teamwork, trust, and logic. It’s praised for its gameplay, style, and emotional warmth. However, the game is designed for cooperative play.

If you have a friend ready to team up, POPUCOM could easily become one of the best co-op games of the year. If not, it might be worth waiting until a single-player mode or matchmaking becomes available.