Play Pucca - Power Up Online

Pucca: Power Up came out for the Nintendo DS in 2008, published by Zoo Digital Publishing. It was one of those quirky, character-driven games that felt right at home on the DS, a system full of oddball titles and licensed adventures. You don't see many games based on that particular animated series anymore, but at the time, it fit right in.

You control Pucca, a determined girl whose main goal is to catch and kiss her ninja crush, Garu, who is constantly running away. The game plays out across side-scrolling levels where you chase Garu through various environments, using a giant mallet to smash obstacles and enemies in your path. You also collect noodles to build up a power meter; once full, you can unleash a super speed dash to close the distance quickly. The levels are short and fairly straightforward, but the constant running and occasional platforming keep things moving. It feels silly and frantic, like a cartoon chase scene you get to play out yourself.