Tiny Garden: A Polly Pocket-Inspired Gardening Sim

Growing up in the ’90s, Polly Pocket was a beloved toy for many of us, a portable dollhouse that fit perfectly in our pockets. Now, a new game called Tiny Garden brings back that sense of wonder and nostalgia. It’s a relaxing gardening simulator and decorating game, portrayed in the familiar style of a Polly Pocket case, complete with a hand crank to power the in-game days. Part toy, part game, Tiny Garden is both a puzzle and a delightful little playground to explore. Although its full release is still a bit away, I had the chance to try out a demo during the Steam Next Fest, and it’s been intriguing.

Tiny Garden is incredibly charming, starting with the magic of nurturing plants. You embark on your gardening journey with simple choices like radishes, carrots, and cacti before advancing to more demanding plant species. This is where it transforms into a puzzle: the soil changes based on previous plantings, requiring thoughtful planning for what and where to grow next. As you cultivate your garden, you earn plants that you can trade for whimsical decorations, perfect for both the interior and exterior of your miniature world.

Behind the game’s playful concept lies a story waiting to be discovered. As the game’s creator, Ao Norte, noted on the Steam page: “Tiny Garden carries the echoes of those who played with it before you. Through letters, you unravel a poignant story that highlights how objects are more than their material presence — they carry the imprints of lived experiences and shared tales. Every new find is not merely a piece of decor or flora; it’s a peek into a broader connection.”

In my time with Tiny Garden, I’ve found it utterly enchanting—a serene oasis amid the hustle and bustle of real life. While there’s a delightful range of activities and design options, the main goal remains simple: to create. It encourages you to take things at your own pace, welcoming unexpected discoveries as they arise. For anyone looking for a tiny yet fulfilling escape, this charming game offers plenty to enjoy.