Sir Noggin Review
This Sega Master System homage nails the aesthetic but is light on challenge.
Sir Noggin. Credit: Sinclair Strange / Scarlet Moon Games
Sir Noggin from Sinclair Strange and publisher Scarlet Moon Games sends a big-headed knight with an oversized sword against an evil wizard named Derek. I breezed through the game’s 20 colorful platforming stages and had a great time, despite a lack of meaningful challenge.
The double-jump trivializes most obstacles. Between generous air control and that massive sword hitbox, enemies rarely threaten, especially when you learn you can block most projectiles by standing still. Throwable weapons such as fireballs, boomerangs, and bombs mimic the Castlevania sub-weapons system. They’re a blast, but overpowered. Each of the seven zones introduces fresh gimmicks—moving platforms, crushing ceilings, snow, bouncy shrooms—keeping level design varied even as difficulty quickly plateaus.
Sir Noggin. Credit: Sinclair Strange / Scarlet Moon Games
Boss encounters pit you against supersized versions of regular enemies. They're visually impressive, filling the screen, but their attack patterns are instantly readable. I earned most "finish without dying" achievements on my playthrough, which should illustrate the game’s challenge curve.
A 15-level challenge mode offers unique levels built around three types of limitations: timed runs where killing enemies earns you precious seconds, single HP stages, and no-attack challenges. These were a lot of fun, though I was able to finish all but a handful on a first attempt. I didn’t try the additional Boss Rush mode.
Sir Noggin. Credit: Sinclair Strange / Scarlet Moon Games
The Master System presentation charms with its chunky pixel art graphics. Bright colors pop and add a lot to the experience. Character designs are super cute, though enemy variety feels sparse across the seven distinct worlds. I loved the era-accurate soundtrack as well.
While Sir Noggin is easy, it still had me enchanted over my single-sitting playthrough. I never had a Master System as a kid, but it reminded me of spending hours beating Kirby’s Dream Land on my Game Boy over and over. If you miss those platformers, this one is for you.
Sir Noggin is available now on Steam.
Overall Score: 7/10
Played on: Steam Deck
