Search for games

Type three or more characters to start searching

Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley cover image

Links

Steam

Twitch

MONSTER

Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley
Item: Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Indie, Third Person Perspective, Open World, Puzzle and Logic, RPG, Music and Dance, Top-Down Perspective, Casual, Strategy, Single Player

AvailableMar 7, 2024

PlatformPC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch

DeveloperHyper Games

Overview

Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley is a musical adventure game in which Snufkin needs to restore the harmony of Moominvalley, after a series of grotesque parks has appeared and ruined the valley's natural balance. The game is an ambient and wholesome experience for both kids and adults, and combines open world-mechanics with puzzles, stealth and melodic elements.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Most critics praise Melody of Moominvalley for its whimsical, Ghibli-esque charm and heartfelt environmental themes, though some call it simplistic for newcomers. Despite minor flaws, it’s a nostalgic, family-friendly triumph honoring Tove Jansson’s legacy with gentle storytelling.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

94%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The majority of critics praised Story of Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley for its charming, lighthearted narrative that captures the whimsical essence of the Moomin universe. CGMagazine highlighted its "Ghibli vibes" and "innocent fable," while COGconnected and Digitally Downloaded emphasized its environmental themes, friendship, and respect for Tove Jansson’s original works. Nintendo Life described the story as "bittersweet and imaginative," focusing on Snufkin’s quest to restore balance and reunite with Moomintroll, and Adventure Game Hotspot noted its "whimsical and non-violent adventure" with a "gorgeously-presented hand-drawn world." The game’s emphasis on ecological preservation and gentle, heartfelt storytelling resonated strongly, with reviewers like TheXboxHub and Xbox Tavern appreciating its "heartwarming and thought-provoking" themes and "compassion" woven into the narrative. Siliconera also praised its "quaint and sweet" appeal, calling it a "classic underdog narrative" that bridges the gap between longtime fans and newcomers. However, some critics pointed out minor drawbacks. CGMagazine noted that the game "lacks proper introduction to the Moomin world for newcomers," which could hinder accessibility for those unfamiliar with the franchise. Adventure Game Hotspot criticized the eco-terrorist angle as "safe" and questioned whether it delved deeply enough into the original works’ themes. While these critiques were relatively isolated, they underscored a tension between the game’s nostalgic homage and its potential to feel overly simplistic or underdeveloped for those outside the Moomin lore. Additionally, some reviewers suggested that the story’s focus on restoration and friendship, while endearing, might not fully explore the complexities of the Moomin universe, leaving room for deeper exploration of its characters and conflicts. Despite these critiques, the overall consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive. Most highlighted the game’s ability to evoke the spirit of Tove Jansson’s tales while delivering a narrative that balances accessibility with emotional depth. Reviews from Digitally Downloaded, Nintendojo, and Noisy Pixel praised its "gentle story," "rich character interactions," and "wholesome charm," respectively, reinforcing its appeal as a heartfelt, family-friendly experience. While a few critics felt the story leaned too heavily on familiar themes or lacked nuance, the majority agreed that Melody of Moominvalley succeeds as a nostalgic, imaginative journey that honors its source material. The game’s emphasis on environmentalism, friendship, and the Moomins’ unique charm appears to have struck a chord with reviewers, making it a standout entry in the franchise despite its occasional shortcomings.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley offers a charming, accessible, and relaxing gameplay experience filled with gentle puzzles, music-based mechanics, and a lighthearted open world — perfect for casual or younger players, but maybe too easy for those seeking a challenge.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

24%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

76%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The overall sentiment toward the gameplay of Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley is largely positive, with many reviewers highlighting its simplicity, charm, and accessibility. CGMagazine praised the "simple and engaging gameplay with a laid-back atmosphere," while Nintendo Life noted that the game is "smoothly executed, fun to play, and accessible even for less experienced gamers." Digitally Downloaded and Impulsegamer both emphasized the game's gentle puzzles and stealth elements, drawing comparisons to A Short Hike and older Zelda titles, respectively. The use of musical instruments as a core mechanic was frequently mentioned as a unique and endearing aspect, with Adventure Game Hotspot and GameSpew noting how Snufkin's harmonica, flute, and drum are essential for interacting with the environment and solving puzzles. Additionally, the game's focus on exploration, side quests, and optional activities was seen as a strength, offering a relaxed and immersive experience that appeals to a wide range of players. Despite the positive reception, some critics pointed out that the gameplay lacks challenge, which could be a drawback for more experienced or adult players. COGconnected and Nintendojo both acknowledged that the puzzles are "not challenging but not tedious," which may not satisfy those looking for a more complex or demanding experience. TheXboxHub noted that while the variety of tasks keeps the game fresh, "some adult gamers may find it lacks challenge." Similarly, Siliconera described the gameplay as "relaxing and not very challenging," and NintendoWorldReport observed that the leveling up and stealth mechanics are "simple and accessible," which may feel too easy for certain audiences. These critiques suggest that while the game is well-suited for younger players or those seeking a casual experience, it might not offer enough depth for players who prefer more intense or strategic gameplay. The overall consensus among critics is that Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley delivers a charming and accessible gameplay experience that aligns well with its lighthearted, family-friendly tone. While some reviewers like COGconnected and Adventure Game Hotspot praised its open-world design and variety of activities, others such as TheXboxHub and TheSixthAxis noted that the simplicity of the mechanics makes it particularly suitable for younger audiences. Despite the occasional mention of a lack of challenge, the game is consistently described as fun, relaxing, and engaging, with a strong emphasis on exploration, music-based interactions, and non-violent, creative problem-solving. This balance of accessibility and charm has made it a standout title for fans of the Moomin universe and casual gamers alike.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley dazzles with its enchanting, hand-drawn watercolor visuals that perfectly capture Tove Jansson’s whimsical world, offering a nostalgic, immersive experience. While minor technical and gameplay issues exist, they don’t overshadow its stunning art direction, which is the game’s defining strength and a loving tribute to the Moomin legacy.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

87%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The majority of critics praised the graphics and visual design of Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley as a standout feature, emphasizing its faithful and enchanting adaptation of Tove Jansson’s Moomin universe. CGMagazine highlighted the “hand-painted, animated look” that “brings the Moomin series to life with enchanting details,” while Impulsegamer called the presentation “absolutely astounding,” noting how it “captures the look and tone of Tove Jansson’s work in a profound way.” Nintendojo and Nintendo Life both celebrated the “beautiful” and “familiar yet fresh” aesthetic, comparing it to “classic children’s picture books” and “Scandinavian flavor,” with the latter specifically commending the “watercolor rendition of the world.” Critics like Adventure Game Hotspot and Digital Chumps lauded the “rich watercolor visuals” and “gorgeous hand-drawn world,” respectively, describing the art as “charming,” “cute,” and “whimsical.” The game’s ability to evoke nostalgia through its 90s cartoon-inspired imagery, vibrant colors, and lush environments was frequently cited, with Movies Games and Tech calling the visuals “phenomenal” and “aesthetically pleasing for fans of the franchise.” These reviews collectively underscore a strong, cohesive art direction that immerses players in the Moomin world’s unique charm. While the visual design was widely celebrated, some critics pointed to minor technical or gameplay-related issues. Hey Poor Player noted “occasional slowdowns and clipping,” which slightly detracted from the experience, while TheXboxHub mentioned that “transitions between gameplay and cutscenes can be jarring.” Siliconera observed that “some scenes lack gameplay value,” suggesting that the art’s beauty didn’t always align with functional design. Additionally, TheSixthAxis critiqued the platforming mechanics as “lacking intuitiveness,” which, while not a visual flaw, could affect immersion. These concerns were generally framed as secondary to the game’s artistic strengths, with most reviewers acknowledging that the technical hiccups or design choices didn’t overshadow the overall visual appeal. The negatives, though present, were often described as minor and didn’t detract from the game’s ability to captivate through its aesthetic. Despite the few criticisms, the overall consensus among reviewers was overwhelmingly positive, with the graphics and visual design being a central highlight. The hand-drawn, watercolor style was consistently praised for its ability to evoke the warmth and whimsy of the Moomin books, as noted by Digitally Downloaded, who called it “minimalistic yet effective,” and Noisy Pixel, who emphasized its “immersive atmosphere.” While some technical and gameplay-related issues were mentioned, they were not seen as deal-breakers, and the art direction was widely regarded as a key strength. Critics like GameSpew and COGconnected highlighted how the visuals “immersed” and “encouraged players to savor the surroundings,” reinforcing the game’s identity as a lovingly crafted tribute to the Moomin legacy. The combination of nostalgic charm, artistic fidelity, and atmospheric beauty created a visual experience that resonated strongly with both fans and newcomers, solidifying Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley as a visually striking title.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Rave reviews hail Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley as a sonic triumph, with its ethereal, minimalistic soundtrack and nature-infused soundscapes crafting a cozy, immersive world. Sigur Rós' music and instrument-based gameplay shine bright, while a lack of voice acting is a minor gripe that pales next to the game's whimsical, audio-driven magic.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The majority of critics praised the sound design and music of Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley as a standout element that deeply enhances the game’s atmosphere. Many highlighted the ethereal, minimalistic soundtrack, which blends nature sounds with whimsical melodies to create an immersive, cozy experience. For instance, Nintendojo lauded the “excellent soundscape” that brings Moominvalley to life, while Nintendo Life noted the “ethereal music” co-created with Sigur Rós, which “enhances the emotional impact.” Hey Poor Player specifically celebrated the collaboration with Sigur Rós, calling the music “wonderful” and perfectly suited to the game’s whimsical tone. Additionally, the integration of musical instruments into gameplay, such as Snufkin’s use of instruments to solve puzzles, was frequently praised. GameSpew and TheXboxHub emphasized how the soundtrack and sound design “complement the visuals and gameplay seamlessly,” while Adventure Game Hotspot and Digital Chumps highlighted the “folksy” and “charming” qualities that evoke nostalgia and enhance the game’s fairy-tale charm. While the overall reception was overwhelmingly positive, some critics pointed to the absence of voice acting as a notable shortcoming. CGMagazine and Impulsegamer noted that the lack of voice acting, particularly the absence of Matt Berry as Moominpapa, “could have enhanced the experience” or felt like a “minor downside.” Digitally Downloaded offered a contrasting view, suggesting that the silence allowed players to “imagine the characters’ voices,” which might appeal to fans of the original Moomin books. However, this omission was seen as a missed opportunity by some, as Nintendo World Report acknowledged the “heavily involved musical instruments” but did not address voice acting. Despite these critiques, many reviewers, including TheXboxHub, argued that the absence of voice acting “does not detract from the experience,” indicating that the game’s strengths in sound design and music largely overshadow this flaw. The consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with the sound design and music universally recognized as a core strength of Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley. Nearly all reviews emphasized how the soundtrack and ambient sounds elevated the game’s atmosphere, making it feel like a living, breathing world. Nintendojo and Nintendo Life praised the seamless integration of music and gameplay, while Digital Chumps and Movies Games and Tech highlighted the “outstanding” sound design and “touching soundtrack” that resonated with both longtime fans and newcomers. Even critics who noted the lack of voice acting, such as CGMagazine and Impulsegamer, acknowledged the broader excellence of the audio elements. Ultimately, the collaboration with Sigur Rós, the use of instruments, and the atmospheric soundscapes were celebrated as defining features, solidifying the game’s reputation as a sonic triumph that captures the essence of Moominvalley.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

technical performance

Description unavailable

Replay Value

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley charms Moomin fans with its whimsical narrative, art, and collectibles—but its 4-5 hour runtime, linear design, and lackluster post-game content make it feel too brief, leaving replayability in the dust. Nostalgia wins over depth, but casual players may tire quickly.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

100%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The reviews of Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley highlight several positive aspects of its replay value, particularly for fans of the Moomin universe. Digitally Downloaded emphasizes the game’s "finely tuned narrative and experience," suggesting that its intricate worldbuilding and character interactions cater to dedicated fans, offering a unique and immersive journey. Nintendo Life and NintendoWorldReport both note the presence of mini-quests, character interactions, and a simple leveling system that provide additional engagement beyond the main story, while Adventure Game Hotspot and Noisy Pixel point to side quests and hidden collectibles that enrich the experience. Additionally, GameSpew praises the "beautiful art style and mesmerizing soundtrack" as elements that could keep players returning, even if the core gameplay is brief. These critics argue that the game’s charm, narrative depth, and optional content create a satisfying, if short, experience that resonates with its target audience, especially younger players or those drawn to the Moomin lore. However, the negatives surrounding replay value are more pronounced, with many critics pointing to the game’s brevity and lack of post-game content. COGconnected criticizes the linear structure, noting that players cannot revisit the open-world map after completing the main quest, which restricts exploration and limits opportunities for replay. Similarly, Movies Games and Tech and TheSixthAxis describe the game as "short" with "4-5 hours of gameplay," arguing that this lack of longevity may leave players unsatisfied, particularly if they seek extended playtime. Adventure Game Hotspot and Digital Chumps also mention the simplicity of the gameplay mechanics, which, while accessible, may not offer enough depth to warrant multiple playthroughs. TheXboxHub and Xbox Tavern acknowledge the Fuddler’s Courtship DLC as a minor addition, but even this only extends the experience by an hour, falling short of addressing concerns about the game’s overall lack of replayability. The overall consensus among critics is mixed, with the game’s replay value hinging on its target audience and design philosophy. While some praise its narrative and charm as sufficient to justify a second playthrough, others feel the short duration and limited post-game content make it feel underwhelming. COGconnected’s critique of the non-revisitable open world contrasts with Digitally Downloaded’s focus on the story’s appeal, and while Nintendo Life and NintendoWorldReport highlight the value of side activities, they also acknowledge the game’s simplicity. TheXboxHub’s mention of the DLC adds a small layer of extra content, but it’s not enough to significantly boost replayability. Ultimately, the game seems to cater more to fans of the Moomins and younger players who prioritize atmosphere and story over extended gameplay, but for others, its lack of depth and length may diminish its long-term appeal.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

87%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The majority of critics praised Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley for its charming, immersive, and visually stunning experience, highlighting its ability to capture the essence of the Moomin universe. CGMagazine and COGconnected both emphasized the game’s "wonderful cozy" and "charming" atmosphere, with the latter noting its strong environmental message and themes of friendship. Digitally Downloaded and Impulsegamer lauded the narrative-driven design, calling it a "delightful and unique experience" and a "fantastic storytelling" adaptation that stands out from generic tie-ins. Nintendojo and Nintendo Life celebrated its "fresh take" on Tove Jansson’s work, with the latter praising its "magical sounds" and "bittersweet story." Adventure Game Hotspot, GameSpew, and Noisy Pixel all highlighted the game’s accessibility, beautiful art style, and engaging gameplay, with GameSpew even calling it a "gorgeous indie gem" and Noisy Pixel describing it as a "heartfelt homage" to the franchise. These reviews collectively underscore the game’s ability to evoke warmth, nostalgia, and a sense of wonder, making it a standout title for fans and newcomers alike. While the game’s positives were widely acknowledged, several critics pointed to its shortcomings, particularly its brevity and technical imperfections. COGconnected and NintendoWorldReport noted that the "short" length and "lack of replay value" might leave some players wanting more, while TheSixthAxis critiqued the platforming mechanics as needing improvement. CGMagazine and Siliconera mentioned technical performance issues, such as minor visual glitches on the Nintendo Switch, and the need for better onboarding for those unfamiliar with the Moomin series. Digital Chumps also observed that the "relatively short gameplay duration" could limit its appeal, and Adventure Game Hotspot acknowledged "deviations from the original tone" as a potential downside. These critiques, while significant, were often framed as minor trade-offs rather than deal-breakers, with many reviewers suggesting that the game’s strengths still make it a worthwhile experience despite these flaws. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the game being celebrated as a heartfelt and accessible entry in the Moomin franchise. While some noted its limitations—such as short playtime, technical hiccups, and gameplay mechanics that could be refined—these were frequently overshadowed by its enchanting world, rich storytelling, and nostalgic charm. Reviews from GameSpew, Noisy Pixel, and Movies Games and Tech emphasized that the game’s beauty and accessibility make it a "treat for those looking for a light-hearted escape" and a "must-play" for fans. Even critics like TheXboxHub and Xbox Tavern, who focused on its family-friendly appeal, acknowledged its "heartwarming" and "easy-going" nature. The game’s ability to balance faithfulness to the source material with creative innovation, coupled with its emphasis on community and nature, resonated strongly across platforms, solidifying its reputation as a delightful, if imperfect, experience that aligns with the Moomin spirit.

TL;DR

Wins hearts with its cozy, visually stunning Moomin world and heartfelt storytelling, but suffers from short length, technical hiccups, and uneven platforming. A delightful, if imperfect, experience that’s a must-play for fans and newcomers alike.

MONSTER

Reviews

48 reviews found

100

Digitally Downloaded

Nintendo Switch

Mar 11, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Snufkin: Melody Of Moominvalley is a finely crafted game that captures the essence of the Moomin universe, offering a delightful and unique experience for fans of the series, showcasing the value of narrative-driven games over generic tie-ins.

Read full review

Hey Poor Player

Nintendo Switch

Mar 5, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is described as absolutely charming and relaxing, with a good message, despite minor visual issues on the Switch.

Read full review

Impulsegamer

Nintendo Switch

Mar 5, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley is praised as a delightful adaptation with fantastic storytelling, incredible visuals, and a keen eye for capturing the essence of Tove Jansson's work. The reviewer highly recommends it to Moomin fans and cozy game enthusiasts.

Read full review

TheSixthAxis

Mar 5, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley offers a wholesome and engaging experience with a focus on environmental themes, simple yet varied gameplay, and a unique music-based interaction system. The platforming aspect could be improved, but overall, it provides a satisfying adventure in Moominvalley.

Read full review

GameSpew

Mar 5, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley is a gorgeous and wonderful indie gem that can be enjoyed by anyone, whether familiar with the Moomins or not. The game's accessibility, beautiful art style, and mesmerizing soundtrack leave players with a huge smile on their face, despite its short length.

Read full review

Noisy Pixel

Mar 5, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley is a heartfelt homage to the Moomins universe, offering an essential experience for fans and newcomers with its engaging gameplay, rich narrative, and beautiful art style.

Read full review

Movies Games and Tech

Mar 19, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A must-play game for fans of the Moomins. Offers an incredibly touching experience with faithful adaptation of characters and impressive aesthetics. Short playtime may leave players wanting more.

Read full review

Digital Chumps

Mar 6, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley is an adorable adventure game with a driven main character, suitable for younger gamers. The game offers a positive and engaging experience, despite its relatively short gameplay duration. It may not appeal to everyone, but it is a treat for those looking for a light-hearted escape.

Read full review

COGconnected

Nintendo Switch

Mar 26, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley offers a charming and visually stunning adventure with a strong environmental message and themes of friendship and respect. While the game may be short and lack replay value, it provides an enjoyable experience for fans of Moominvalley.

Read full review

Nintendojo

Nintendo Switch

Mar 15, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Snufkin: Melody of Moomin Valley is praised for being a fresh take on Tove Jansson's work while remaining faithful to the series and characters. The game's developers show a love for the source material, making it a promising step into a new medium for the Moomin franchise.

Read full review