Highwater is a cruel parody of our future existence. Its brutally honest tale of human mismanagement is cutting and painfully accurate. As the world of video games and reality combines, it is a stark reminder that we can do better. Moreover, it is a slap in the face of the higher powers. The clear social divides and the impact it has is plain to see. Consequently, the overarching plot will resonate with many gamers.
This adventure title was developed by Demagog Studios and published by Rogue Games. What’s more, there are strategic elements as turn-based combat is a key element. Yet, this concept serves as a break away from the chilling story. Subsequently, though it is interesting and challenging, the plot and its colourful characters always sit at the fore.
Highwater tells an unfair tale.
Social divides and all the unfair trappings are nothing new. However, this doesn’t make it any less insightful or emotionally driven. The unfair balance between classes and the sense of loss and despair are key layers in the cruel and unfair nature of Highwater.
This post-apocalyptic adventure title focuses on a young person called Niko. This instinctual survivalist has worked hard to stay alive in a flooded world. Sadly, pirates, insurgents, and a lack of resources leave Niko with few options. Accordingly, a plan must be created and breaking the rules is the only way to stay alive. Therefore, you must take to the water and break through the walls that protect the wealthy and upper-class members of society.
Straightforward mechanics.
The plot leads you to think that Highwater would focus on adventure elements. Well, this isn’t exactly the case as turn-based combat is the dish of the day. If you are familiar with this genre, you won’t feel out of your depth. Yet, there is a slight learning curve if you lack experience. Effectively, the hero and their party can move a certain number of spaces across a grid-like map. Furthermore, they can combine skills to tackle an array of foes.
Alongside this, each character has set items and weapons to be used to your advantage. This adds a layer of strategy to an otherwise rudimentary affair. Though the mechanics are straightforward, the action will test your skills. Consequently, you cannot simply bum-rush each interaction and expect to succeed. It was this cat-and-mouse approach that helped to keep me going during the low points in the story.
A linear world.
The minor exploration layers follow a linear pattern. Moreover, each tiny island is blocked by invisible walls that keep you on track. Now, this may seem annoying, but it wasn’t. I liked the lack of freedom and the deliberate desire to keep the story moving. Additionally, the drip-fed collectables help to piece together untold portions of the story.
Highwater looks great.
The rich colour palette juxtaposes the cold and callous nature of the story. I adored the beautiful floating world and the small parcels of land. Moreover, the excellent camera angle and the simple grid-like maps ensure that the action is easy to follow. Finally, the art style has a dreamlike quality that is touching and upsetting in equal measure. The sense of wonderment and life is devoid of the cruel and senseless reality.
The audio does a great job of bringing each layer together. The lush and calm exploration music differs from the upbeat tones of each combat encounter. Alongside this, some pleasant, sombre and melancholy scenes add drama and emotion to the plot.
Excellent controls.
When a game combines multiple genres, there is a risk that things get messy. Luckily, the excellent controller layout and the responsive inputs work well. On top of this, the simple tutorial helps you to understand the fundamentals. This excellent approach lets you focus on the story and little else.
Highwater is sadly lacking when it comes to replay value or longevity. Its linear gameplay prevents it from dragging you back for more. Yes, the strategic layers may give you a unique experience, but this isn’t enough. I wanted there to be more collectables and different things to discover. Thankfully, the first playthrough is good enough that this isn’t too much of a problem.
Highwater is a good but tough-to-swallow indie title.
Mechanically, Highwater doesn’t break the mould. However, the story and the setting are phenomenal. The parodies of our potential future lives are apparent, and the cruel social model is disappointingly accurate. As such, much of the plot will resonate. For these reasons, I recommend buying it here! Can you undo the unjust social divide? Explore the world, help those in need, and make your future better.
