Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley embodies every fine element of this incredibly touching franchise. Furthermore, every aspect respects the fine work of Tove Jansson. Accordingly, if you adore this heart-warming and family-friendly series, you will cherish every moment you spend playing this title.
This musical adventure game was developed by Hyper Games and published by Raw Fury. Thanks to its spectacular audio and touching story, you will fall for every ounce of Moomin charm. Moreover, the faithful adaptation of each main protagonist will fill you with nostalgia. As such, though this is a new adventure, it has so many wonderful, familiar moments that it will make you smile.
Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley tells a sad tale.
The joy of Moominvalley is the love and nature that surrounds it. Yet, when this is removed, the residents have no idea of how to deal with the situation. Luckily, this is where Snufkin steps in. This nature-loving hero hates modern life. Additionally, he can’t stand it when inconsiderate people ruin every beautiful and untouched area. Accordingly, he will do anything to prevent his home and favourite places from being decimated.
During your time in Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley, you must follow a linear storyline and a fairly rigid gameplay loop. The hero, Snufkin, must undertake a variety of tasks and sub-quests to help the residents and save the valley. However, this is easier said than done as puzzles and some minor stealth mechanics stand between you and success. Furthermore, the more you progress, the more damage and destruction you witness. Subsequently, you must work hard and fast if you wish to bring life back to your favourite places.
A simple concept.
Though the plot and characters are complex and touching, the core gameplay concept is undeniably simple. Snufkin is sent on an array of missions that unfold at a gentle pace. En route, he will encounter plenty of creatures and weird and wonderful beings. Each of these animals must be lured into helping you with the aid of a harmonica song. First, the music is basic and will not appease everyone. However, as the game evolves, you discover new layers to your music and this helps to entice the toughest of creatures.
Alongside this, there are some basic puzzles and some stealth moments. Neither of these will test your resolve or your skills, but they are fun to experience and add an element of variety to an otherwise structured performance. Additionally, you must use your song to manipulate some of the creatures you see. This was a great tool that amused me every time. I loved tricking the park keepers whilst sneaking past them and destroying their signs and statues.
Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley looks phenomenal.
Aesthetically, Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley is an absolute winner! If you have watched the TV series, or you have read the books, you will cherish every single second. However, if you have somehow missed this wonderful franchise, you may wonder what the heck you are looking at. The faithful imagery and vibrant colours transport you to the nostalgia-infused 90s cartoon. Moreover, the lush world design and the slight layer variation capture your attention. Another fine element is the cinematic. The phenomenal storytelling was a joy to watch, and I could happily watch it over and over again.
The jaw-dropping audio complements the visuals. The touching soundtrack captures every fine aspect of the original series. On top of this, there is an underlying modern tone that will resonate with younger gamers. If you then consider the fine sound effects and the delightful ambient sounds, you will adore everything you see and hear.
Excellent controls.
Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley is a relaxing game. However, the minor puzzle and stealth moments somewhat up the ante. Subsequently, when the gameplay ups the tempo, you rely on the responsive and well-considered keyboard layout. This is supported further as every action is highlighted on the screen. Therefore, you can’t go wrong as you explore and solve the issues in Moominvalley.
Where this is sadly lacking is replay value and longevity. If you undertake every side quest, you may get around 5 hours of gameplay. However, if you push through and focus on the core storyline, you will be lucky to enjoy 4 hours of action. This short play time was not enough for me. I wanted the game to go on and on. Yet, when the end credits rolled I was left wanting. Consequently, I desperately hope that the developers work on a sequel or some additional content.
Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley is a must-play game if you are a fan.
If you adore the Moomins, you must play Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley! This incredibly touching experience will make you smile throughout. Moreover, its ability to stay faithful to the original protagonists and their characteristics was impressive. If you then consider the amazing aesthetics, you will be transported to this weird but nostalgia-infused cartoon world. Accordingly, I adore this game and I recommend buying it here! Can you save Moominvalley? Explore the world, solve each problem, and cherish every musical moment.
