At first glance you may not understand what makes Harold Halibut so impressive, but when you discover that its been 10 years in the making and that each character has been meticulously hand-sculpted, placed within intricately detailed miniature sets and then then digitally scanned, resulting in a fusion of traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology, the awe-inspiring artistry becomes clear.
This narrative-driven game sees you embark on a mesmerising adventure through the depths of space and invites players to immerse themselves in the life of Harold, a lab assistant aboard the FEDORA I, a city-sized spaceship navigating the alien depths of an oceanic world.
Set against the backdrop of a humanity seeking refuge from an Earth embroiled in conflict, Harold Halibut unfolds as a tale of hope, longing, and the search for belonging. As Harold, players navigate the intricacies of life aboard the submerged vessel, where the enigmatic lead scientist, Jeanne Mareaux, tirelessly seeks a means to propel the ship towards a new, hospitable home.
The journey begins at a leisurely pace, with the initial hours of gameplay establishing the atmospheric backdrop and introducing the diverse cast of characters populating the FEDORA I. While the pace may initially seem slow, somewhat mirroring the laid-back demeanour and attitude of the main character, these early moments lay the foundation for the profound discoveries and emotional revelations that await further into the narrative. It’s not until about half way through that a mysterious creature boards the ship and the game takes on a new perspective.
Taking around 12 hours to complete the main story, with another half a dozen available if you venture into the side content, you’ll certainly get your moneys worth on this journey. The story unfolds in a rollercoaster fashion, punctuated by moments of excitement and gripping climax, interspersed with intervals of serene mundanity.
Gameplay in Harold Halibut primarily revolves around exploration and interaction, with a series of fetch quests guiding players through the ship’s corridors. You have access to Compu-bud, an electrical device that serves as a reminder for your main story objectives and optional side missions. There are also tasks you complete along the way, although it should be noted that they lack the complexity of traditional puzzle-solving that you might expect to see in a game like this. In one example, you use the thumb stick to wash graffiti off a wall. That’s literally the extent of it. There are also some mini-games found in the ship arcade, which offer a nice diversion from the main storyline but given the games already lengthy story, I didn’t spend much time on these during my playthrough.
As noted, one of the most striking aspects of Harold Halibut is its unique visual style, characterised by intricate stop-motion animation. The sheer dedication and artistry behind this technique gives the game its distinct charm. It is what makes the game truly unique and the novelty of what Slow Bros has managed to create here never wears thin.
At the heart of the experience are the characters themselves, each imbued with personality and depth. While Harold’s journey may seem mundane at times, his wit and occasional outburst in song add layers to his character, making him a relatable and endearing protagonist. It’s a game that won’t connect with everyone, but those willing to invest in the world, characters and style will reap the rewards.
In summary, Harold Halibut offers a captivating journey into a retro-futuristic world brimming with charm and intrigue. While its gameplay mechanics may not appeal to all tastes, those who appreciate rich storytelling and immersive atmospheres will find much to love in this heartfelt exploration of friendship and the quest for meaning.
-Jessica