Halver is a new physics-based puzzle platformer developed by Gologames, in which you play as a block trying to get to the end of a level utilising a handful of unique mechanics.
Halver is an interesting game. The game starts off slowly, introducing you to the basic gameplay mechanics of moving and jumping. The goal of each level is to reach to the exit, and pick up as many orbs as possible along the way. Through the first handful of levels, the game introduces its various mechanics slowly and in a way that lets you learn each of them.
These mechanics consist of a few different things. Firstly, is the physics. Each level consists of static elements that you can’t interact with, and various blocks which you can. You can do simple things with these at first such as pushing them so you have a ledge, to more advanced things later in the game such as creating domino effects or snowboarding on a block down some hazardous lava tiles. There are blocks which move left to right, some which are transparent but let you jump much higher, some which move towards you and kill you, and other various things.
And of course, there is the titular Halver mechanic. On some levels, you will be able to shoot out a little projectile that if it hits certain block types, splits them in half. On the levels which this is implemented, you usually only get a set number of shots, so the game rewards strategic thinking and forward planning. Splitting blocks in half helps you in lots of different ways, from making blocks easier to push, to letting other ones fall down, and more. It’s a really interesting mechanic and the game benefits because it doesn’t overuse it.
Halving isn’t present on every level so it’s not used as a crutch, more an extension to the existing physics mechanics. None of the levels are overly big, so they all exist in that sweet spot for puzzles that lets you think about the whole thing before you make your move. You can plan ahead easily enough, which is crucial as in later levels there is no room for mistakes. You have to follow the right set of moves to reach the exit, or you’ll die. Luckily, restarting a level is as easy as a single button press. The game even offers optional hints you can collect across the game if a level is too difficult.
In terms of graphical style, Halver keeps things simple, It has a grid-based blueprint style, with backgrounds featuring various arrows and hints that can help you progress. The lighting and shading is nice, and along with the peaceful music, fits the calm tone the game is going for. The only current downside of Halver is that the amount of content is relatively small, only 48 levels which can be completed in a few hours if you have the logical mindset for it. The developer though has seen fit to include a level editor which in future updates will mean community-made levels will be available. This is a great choice, as if Halver develops a community that can create content, I can see it being the kind of game people enjoy every morning before work, a little brainteaser to get the mind moving.
Overall, Halver is a good game. It’s a puzzle game that’s easy to understand, has mechanics which work well, and gets your brain-juices flowing. My only concern is around the number of levels, hopefully the game can foster a fanbase that can help fill that gap.
Halver will be available here on Steam on the 11th April. If you’re looking for another peaceful puzzle game, why not check out Planetiles.
