SOPA: A Short but Flavourful Journey Worth Tasting

XPN Network
Nov 6
3 min read

As someone who spends a lot of time digging into indie titles, I’m always on the lookout for games that feel personal, imaginative, and a little offbeat. SOPA: Tale of the Stolen Potato fits that description perfectly. It’s the kind of game that doesn’t try to compete with sprawling AAA blockbusters, but instead carves out its own identity through charm, humour, and cultural storytelling.

SOPA: Tale of the Stolen Potato is about Miho, a young boy living with his grandmother. She sends him on what seems like the simplest of errands: fetch a potato so she can make soup. But this everyday task quickly transforms into something magical when a mischievous frog steals the sack of potatoes, pulling Miho into a surreal adventure. What follows is a journey through whimsical, folklore-inspired worlds where ordinary objects and creatures take on extraordinary roles.

The narrative blends humour with warmth. On one hand, you’ve got absurd encounters like frogs in hats and magical pantries that keep the tone playful. On the other, there’s a deeper emotional thread about family, tradition, and the bond between generations. The soup itself becomes a symbol of care and connection, grounding the fantastical journey in something very human and relatable.

What I love about the story is how it balances the silly and the sincere. It doesn’t try to be epic or overly complex; instead, it celebrates small moments and cultural flavour, showing how even the most mundane chores can become adventures when seen through a child’s eyes. That mix of heartfelt storytelling and quirky humour is exactly why SOPA feels so special in the indie space.

At its core, SOPA plays like a cozy adventure game. You’ll spend most of your time exploring environments, talking to eccentric characters, and solving small puzzles that move the story forward. These puzzles are usually straightforward, things like fixing a broken bridge, finding a missing item, or outsmarting a mischievous frog thief. The game occasionally mixes in light action sequences, but they’re simple and accessible, keeping the focus on narrative rather than challenge

The beauty of SOPA lies in its heart. It’s a game that celebrates family bonds and everyday moments, while layering them with absurd humour and folklore-inspired magic. The art style is bright and expressive, with a cartoonish flair that makes every scene pop. It reminded me of why I love indie games in the first place: they’re not afraid to be quirky, to tell small stories in big ways, and to embrace cultural influences that mainstream titles often overlook. The puzzles are clever enough to keep you engaged, though they’re never too difficult, and the short playtime makes it feel like a refreshing break rather than a heavy commitment.

Unlike sprawling open-world games, SOPA is short and tightly paced. It’s designed to be completed in just a few hours, making it feel more like an interactive storybook than a traditional action-adventure. This brevity works in its favor, ensuring the gameplay never overstays its welcome.

That said, SOPA isn’t flawless. Some of the action sequences feel a little clunky, and the soundtrack, while being very charming, can get repetitive if you’re playing in longer sessions. There are also minor technical hiccups here and there, though nothing game-breaking. But honestly, these imperfections almost add to its indie charm. It’s not polished to a mirror shine, but it’s sincere, and that sincerity is what makes it memorable.

Pros

Heartfelt story about family and everyday life
Unique cultural flavour inspired by Latin American folklore
Bright, charming art style and whimsical humour
Short, accessible playtime perfect for indie fans
Available on Xbox Game Pass

Cons

Gameplay depth is limited
Some action segments feel clunky
Soundtrack can become repetitive
Occasional minor bugs

SOPA is exactly the kind of game I’d recommend to anyone who loves indie experiences. It’s short, sweet, and packed with personality. If you’re looking for a massive, complex adventure, this isn’t it. But if you want a heartfelt story wrapped in humour and cultural flavour, SOPA delivers. And with its availability on Xbox Game Pass, it’s an easy one to try without hesitation.

XPN Rating: 4 out of 5 (GOLD)