Stars in the Trash: A Purr-fect Start to 2025
Happy New Year! After a nice break from the hustle and bustle We’re kicking off 2025 with a long-overdue review of a charming little gem w...
Happy New Year! After a nice break from the hustle and bustle We’re kicking off 2025 with a long-overdue review of a charming little gem we spent much of December enjoying: Stars in the Trash. Developed by Valhalla Cats, this narrative-driven platformer debuted on December 9, 2024, and has since captured the hearts of animal lovers and gamers alike. Its mix of delightful animation, humor, and heartfelt storytelling is a treat, making this the perfect way to start the new year.
From the moment Stars in the Trash begins, its hand-drawn, watercolor-inspired world whisks you away to a nostalgic realm reminiscent of classic animated movies. Every frame feels like it was plucked straight from a Don Bluth or Disney production. Whether it's the sunny interior of Moka’s home, the bustling streets of the city, or the eerie shadows of a looming cathedral, the artistry is second to none.
Moka, the protagonist and pampered feline star, is animated with such care that his every move feels alive. From his playful swipes at random objects to the subtle twitch of his tail, this cat exudes personality. The animations go beyond just visuals; they immerse players in the essence of a cat’s mischievous and curious nature.
Humor Meets Heart
While the visual charm sets the stage, the humor and storytelling keep you engaged. Early gameplay captures the hilarity of cat life—knocking flowerpots off shelves, swatting at cookie jars, and even facing off against the dreaded vacuum cleaner (a surprisingly intense foe!). But beneath these lighthearted moments lies a deeper narrative.
Moka’s journey begins as an adventurous escape but quickly turns into a tale of survival, friendship, and personal growth. Along the way, he faces unexpected challenges, from evading a sinister animal catcher to outsmarting chemically enhanced rats. Yet, even in its darker moments, Stars in the Trash maintains a playful, whimsical tone, striking a balance that keeps you smiling without diminishing its emotional weight.
A Unique Presentation
Few games embody the phrase “short but sweet” as well as Stars in the Trash. Its two-to-three-hour runtime mirrors a classic film, allowing for an intimate and focused experience. The soundtrack amplifies this cinematic quality, transitioning effortlessly between calming melodies and suspenseful scores. These shifts signal danger, ensuring players stay on their toes while adding layers to the narrative tension.
The gameplay itself combines exploration, puzzles, and light action. While the controls can occasionally feel imprecise—especially during jumps—these moments are balanced by forgiving checkpoints and intuitive challenges. Whether solving puzzles to unlock new areas or teaming up with other animals to thwart enemies, every moment feels meaningful, even if the mechanics lean toward simplicity.
I really enjoyed the way the game showed of the point of view of Moka towards the world he lives in. Early on there is a battle with an ordinary vacuum but to this little kitty it is a monstrous creature trying to suck it up into its belly. The ability to view the world from this perspective is what adds to the story telling so much.
A Feline-Friendly Future
Stars in the Trash is more than a game—it’s a love letter to cats and classic animation. Valhalla Cats, the studio behind this gem, clearly poured their hearts into every detail. Their commitment to storytelling and artistry, paired with their unique workplace culture and dedication to animal welfare, shines through.
They did not stop at making a game, they have been able to create stories and that inspire and helping stray animals as far back as 2015. So far, they have already given more than 10.000 Euro to animal shelters around the world through their donation program. As my family has adopted many animals, from shelters (our latest addition being a cat with two broken/crushed back legs) we cannot help but feel a deep appreciation for these efforts.
That said, we can’t help but hope this is just the beginning. The world of Stars in the Trash is so rich and vibrant that it feels like there’s much more to explore. Whether it’s a sequel, a spin-off, or something entirely new, we eagerly await what Valhalla Cats creates next.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a fan of hand-drawn animation, emotional stories, or simply adore cats, Stars in the Trash is a must-play. Its humour, beauty, and heartfelt narrative make it an unforgettable experience, even if it’s over too soon. While some controls could use refinement, they’re minor blemishes on an otherwise exceptional game.
It is also a fun experience to watch with the entire family, or have the kids explore in the game. And make sure you cuddle your pets while you do so.
So, grab a blanket, a warm drink, cozy up together and let Moka lead you on an adventure that will leave you laughing, crying, and maybe even meowing along.
Developer: Valhalla Cats
Publisher: Valhalla Cats, IndieArk
Platforms: Steam
Release Date: December 9th 2024 ($11.99)