Howl
- January 23, 2024
- Mi'pu'mi Games GmbH
Howl is a turn-based tactical folktale set in medieval times. A sinister "howling plague" has ravaged the land, turning all who hear it into feral beasts. You play a deaf heroine plunging into danger in search of a cure.
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Get on PS Store"Howl" is a turn-based tactical game set in medieval times where you play as a deaf heroine on a quest to find a cure for the "howling plague." This plague has turned people into feral beasts, and you must outmaneuver them using up to six steps of advanced planning and a variety of abilities. As you progress, you'll upgrade your skills and unlock more action slots, while also shaping your own prophecy through your choices in battle.
Reviews
- Beautiful art style and soothing music create a charming, fairy tale atmosphere.
- Engaging and well-crafted puzzles that provide a satisfying challenge without overstaying their welcome.
- The game features a unique premise with a compelling story that adds depth to the gameplay.
- The game lacks a deep story and can feel simplistic, with predictable enemy movements and limited mechanics.
- While enjoyable, the game is relatively short and may not offer much replay value after completion.
- The 100% completion challenge may not be appealing to all players, and the ending can feel unsatisfying.
- story15 mentions
- 20 % positive mentions
- 60 % neutral mentions
- 20 % negative mentions
The game's story is generally described as straightforward and simplistic, yet it is effectively narrated and complemented by charming visuals and music. While some players found the narrative engaging and appreciated its unique premise, particularly the representation of a deaf protagonist, others felt it lacked depth and complexity. Overall, the story serves as a sufficient backdrop for the gameplay, though opinions on its impact vary.
“Howl is a short and sweet little game with a very interesting story premise: a plague that turns people into beasts if they hear another beast's howl.”
“Having the hero be a deaf woman in a world overrun by werewolves whose very howls turn you into a beast is a story setup I absolutely adore.”
“There's not really any story or anything else to keep you going.”
“The story is relatively straightforward, but nicely narrated as if it were a bedtime story.”
“I was not impressed by the story.”
- graphics10 mentions
- 60 % positive mentions
- 10 % neutral mentions
- 30 % negative mentions
The graphics in the game are praised for their soothing and somber art style, reminiscent of a fairy tale, complemented by well-crafted music and narration that enhance the overall atmosphere. Players appreciate the unique "hand-drawn" visuals, which create a charming and immersive experience, while the combination of art, audio, and storytelling elements is noted for its cohesive and engaging presentation. Overall, the graphics contribute significantly to the game's appeal, drawing players in with their beauty and creativity.
“The art style and ambiance in this game are soothing and somber, like a well-loved fairy tale, and the music/narration add so much as well.”
“I immediately liked the game's storybook visuals and was intrigued by the promise of challenging tactical gameplay.”
“The graphics have a very pleasant and unique 'hand-drawn' art direction, like you're looking at mobile ink on paper.”
“The graphics are outdated and lack the detail expected from modern games.”
“The character models look flat and lifeless, making it hard to connect with the game.”
“The environments feel bland and uninspired, lacking the vibrancy that could enhance the overall experience.”
- music10 mentions
- 80 % positive mentions
- 20 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game is widely praised for its beautiful and soothing qualities, enhancing the overall atmosphere and complementing the art style. Reviewers note that the soundtrack, featuring gentle guitar strums and a fairytale-inspired ambiance, significantly contributes to the immersive experience of the gameplay. Overall, the combination of music, narration, and visuals creates a captivating and relaxing environment for players.
“The art style and ambiance in this game are soothing and somber, like a well-loved fairy tale, and the music/narration add so much as well.”
“The music perfectly suits the vibes of the game; the faint strums of guitar strings are exactly the kind of music I want for a puzzle/tactics game like this.”
“I really enjoyed the gameplay, music, and art; everything lends itself to a beautiful, fairytale-inspired atmosphere.”
- gameplay9 mentions
- 56 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 11 % negative mentions
The gameplay is characterized as a charming tactical/puzzle experience with elegant mechanics that, while basic, offer depth and challenge. Players appreciate the intuitive controls, beautiful art, and engaging soundtrack, which together create a captivating fairytale atmosphere. Although the fight/hide mechanics are somewhat limited, they provide multiple strategic options, making the game enjoyable and rewarding, especially for those seeking to complete all achievements.
“Very enjoyable puzzle game, not too many mechanics, but uses them elegantly.”
“A good depth to the tactics combined with neat mechanics that for the length of the game served well.”
“Intuitive mechanics, charming presentation, and just long enough to feel fully realized without overstaying its welcome.”
“The fight/hide mechanics are rather limited, but there are multiple ways to use them in a particular level and with an ever-increasing number of enemies on each level, it's not easy to get through the game, especially if you're in for all achievements and don't use assist mode.”
- atmosphere4 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is highly praised for its charming storybook quality, enhanced by beautiful visuals, engaging music, and enjoyable narration that complements the gameplay without being overwhelming. Players appreciate how these elements work together to create a captivating, fairytale-inspired experience.
“The narration was fun and really created an atmosphere without overwhelming the game.”
“I have little experience with strategy/tactics games, and I was lured in by the pretty visuals and music; both are great and add a lot to the atmosphere.”
“I really enjoyed the gameplay, music, and art; everything lends itself to a beautiful, fairytale-inspired atmosphere.”
- grinding1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players appreciate that the game features visually appealing graphics and provides a solid challenge, while avoiding the tedium and stress often associated with grinding.
- replayability1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Users note that while the puzzles are enjoyable to solve, the overall replayability is limited.
“While each puzzle is entertaining to figure out, there's not much replay value.”
“Once you've completed the game, there's little incentive to go back and play it again.”
“The lack of varied outcomes makes replaying the game feel redundant.”
Critic Reviews
Howl (Nintendo Switch)
Howl combines challenging turn-based gameplay, creative visual effects, and a somber story to produce a unique strategy puzzle game. Built-in repetition and a lack of instruction do slow things down, but, taken in smaller doses, there’s enough here to compel most puzzle fans through to its resolution.
70%Howl Review (PC)
Howl is very good without being too complex. It’s turn-based tactical gameplay has depth, designed to satisfy fans of this genre, but is accessible enough for newcomers. And the narrative elements are strong enough to keep both groups engaged, trying to collect as much confidence and skulls to open up new options. If a battle becomes frustrating, try as many different approaches as possible first but don’t hesitate to activate the Assist mode before frustration sets in. Howl is a great experience because it blends strong narrative and engaging combat in interesting ways. Review key provided by the publisher.
90%Howl Review - An Enchanting Walk Through Dangerous Woods
I felt that this was a very well put together, and engaging puzzle game. While it may not look like it from the onset, it does hold some tough challenges and touching moments inside. While it won’t be for everyone, if what I have said has interested you at all, I recommend giving Howl a shot.
70%
