When it comes to puzzle games, finding one that strikes the perfect balance between challenge and enjoyment can be a rare gem. Howl, developed by Mi’pu’mi Games GmbH, manages to achieve just that. The plot may be simple, but it does a great job of captivating players and intertwining itself into the gameplay in a smooth transition. Howl combines elements of strategy and puzzle-solving to create a unique and immersive gameplay experience. With a stunning design and alluring mechanics, there is a lot to enjoy with Howl.
The narrative of Howl sets the stage for players who assume the role of the Prophet, a young woman in a world plagued by a terrible curse known as the Howl. This curse transforms anyone who hears it into a feral, wolf-like creature. As the Prophet, your mission is to navigate through a fantasy land, battling against the werewolf invasion and searching for your lost brother. The simple yet effective storyline provides a solid foundation for the gameplay to unfold. Players use a map to explore different paths and levels throughout the tale. While the map design may initially seem simplistic, it effectively guides players through the game’s progression. Completing objectives and rescuing citizens in peril is essential for unlocking new levels and finding shortcuts to more advanced areas. Although the map may not offer extensive visual variety, it serves its purpose in providing a clear sense of direction and progression.
At first glance, Howl’s gameplay might appear deceptively simple, but as you dive deeper into the game, you’ll discover its true complexity. The core mechanics revolve around turn-based combat on a grid-based map. Each level presents various challenges, including enemies, environmental hazards, and obstacles. As the Prophet, you have a limited set of actions, such as movement, attack, waiting, and utilizing a force push ability. Through careful planning and strategic thinking, you must navigate the grid, defeat enemies, and accomplish objectives.
Initially, the gameplay can be overwhelming, especially if you approach it with a tactical RPG mindset. However, as you spend more time with the game, you’ll begin to unravel its puzzle-like nature. Anticipating enemy patterns, planning your actions, and understanding the best placement for attacks become crucial. The game gradually introduces new mechanics and abilities, ensuring that the difficulty curve remains engaging and rewarding. Additionally, unlocking new moves and gaining additional actions per turn adds depth and versatility to your gameplay style.
The combat system in Howl strikes a delicate balance between accessibility and depth. It is easy to grasp the basics of combat, allowing players to jump into the action without feeling overwhelmed. However, mastering the combat requires careful planning and execution. Each round, you have a limited number of actions, which the enemies react to simultaneously. Understanding enemy behavior and utilizing your abilities strategically is crucial for success. For those who might be having difficulty, the game offers an optional Assist Mode that displays enemy actions and directions, making it easier to plan your moves. This mode provides a helpful tool for those who prefer a more tactical RPG approach. However, even with Assist Mode, the game remains challenging as enemies are strategically deployed, requiring players to think critically and adapt their strategies accordingly.
In Howl, progression plays a significant role in enhancing your abilities and overcoming the game’s challenges. As you complete levels within a certain number of turns, you earn Confidence, a resource that can be used to unlock new skills or upgrade existing ones. Leveling up your abilities is essential for tackling more difficult levels and reaching 100% completion. The introduction of additional abilities, such as a more powerful force push or an explosive arrow, adds depth to the gameplay and encourages exploration of earlier levels with newfound tools.
Visually, Howl delights with its hand-drawn art style that perfectly complements the dark fairy tale ambiance. The use of parchment, ink, and watercolors creates a unique aesthetic that draws players into the game’s world. Characters and enemies are beautifully portrayed through hand-drawn 2D still images, adding a touch of enchantment to the overall experience. Furthermore, the soundtrack and light narration enhance the immersion, with string instruments accentuating the actions and movements of the gameplay. One aspect where Howl falls slightly short is the balance between immersion and gameplay. The game’s backtracking and level redoing mechanics, necessary for achieving better scores and completing objectives, can disrupt the immersion and impact the storytelling experience. While intriguing, the narrative can become overshadowed by the need to repeatedly replay levels. This can lead to a disconnect between the player and the story, as the focus shifts more towards perfecting gameplay rather than fully engaging with the narrative.
Howl is an impressive blend of strategy and puzzle-solving that offers a captivating gameplay experience. Its unique combination of tactical RPG elements and puzzle mechanics keeps players engaged and challenged throughout their journey. The visually stunning hand-drawn art style and immersive soundtrack contribute to the game’s enchanting atmosphere. While the balance between immersion and gameplay could be improved, the overall experience of Howl is a testament to the developers’ creativity and dedication. If you’re a fan of puzzle games and enjoy the thrill of strategic combat, Howl is a must-play title. Its easy-to-learn mechanics, challenging gameplay, and captivating storyline make for an unforgettable adventure. Embrace the role of the Prophet, embark on a journey through a dark fairy tale world, and witness the power of determination in the face of a formidable curse.
