A Highland Song, published by Inkle and available on the Nintendo Switch and PC, immerses players in the mystical landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, offering a blend of exploration, rhythm-based gameplay, and a rich narrative. The game follows Moira McKinnon, a 15-year-old protagonist, who embarks on a journey to reach her uncle’s lighthouse by the coast, traversing the challenging terrains of the Scottish Highlands. The narrative is intricately woven, blending history, mythology and some of Moira’s family secrets.
The game introduces players to an open-world experience, reminiscent of a Metroidvania-style map, with various zones to explore. The 2D world allows players to move across different planes, and climbing peaks becomes a crucial aspect of orienting oneself and planning the next steps. The game’s approach to exploration involves collecting and positioning 100 map fragments, uncovering hidden paths, and discovering the secrets scattered throughout the Highlands.
One of the standout features is the game’s rhythm-based sections, where players engage in a mini-game, following the music composed by Laurence Chapman, TALISK, and Fourth Moon. This dynamic element not only adds to the immersive experience but also serves as a means of traversal, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the journey. The soundtrack, produced in collaboration with Scottish folk musicians, contributes to the game’s atmosphere, providing both ambient and energetic tunes over the course of the adventure.
The visuals of A Highland Song are beautiful to look at, with a painting-like quality to them as they capture the essence of the Scottish Highlands. The varied shades of green, the backdrop of hills, serene lakes, and wildlife create a visually stunning environment. The art style, resembling an animated watercolor painting, adds to the overall charm of the game. However, despite its visual appeal, some players may find frustration in the semi-open, non-linear world design. The absence of a comprehensive world map and the need to rely on found maps may lead to getting lost and going in circles, affecting the overall experience if you’re not careful and find yourself lost.
The narrative unfolds gradually, with Moira’s voice acting contributing to the depth of the story. The exploration introduces players to various characters, each with unique stories and perspectives, enhancing the overall immersion. The game’s time mechanic, where days pass gradually and Moira must find shelter by nightfall, adds an element of urgency and survival, making each decision impactful.
Despite its strengths, A Highland Song has a few challenges as well. In some places there’s a lack of guidance where objectives and direction aren’t clear, and while the game looks very inviting and casual it’s probably a bit more challenging than most people expect.
In terms of replayability, the game offers multiple endings, encouraging players to undertake the journey more than once. The discovery of mysteries, interaction with characters, and exploration of the Highlands provide a sense of freedom and depth that contributes to the overall appeal, with a heartwarming story and engaging rhythm sections both adding value.
In conclusion, A Highland Song stands out as a special and heartfelt indie game that successfully captures the beauty of the Scottish Highlands. Its engaging story, rhythm-based gameplay, and stunning visuals make it a worthwhile experience for players seeking a unique and atmospheric adventure. While it may not resonate with everyone, the game’s charm, exploration, and replay value make it a noteworthy addition to the indie gaming landscape and a fantastic console exclusive for the Switch.
Score: 7.9/10
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