Digital Devolver has been known to deliver some pretty crazy titles, ranging in everything from talking bananas to human anatomy “lessons.” Silly is what the publisher does best, constantly adding games that fit its mold. The latest addition to the library of games is Heave Ho, available now for the Nintendo Switch and PC from developer Le Cartel Studio. Heave Ho is a perfect addition to Digital Devolver’s catalog, bringing simple, yet incredibly amusing gameplay that is fun enough for single players, but thrives as a couch co-op party game.
No Legs? No Problem.
In Heave Ho, players are tasked with making it from point A to point B as tiny characters made up of a torso/face combination, long, gangly arms, and oversized hands. Players must use their arms to swing from platform to platform, grabbing onto each ledge with their hands in a Tarzan-like manner, all while avoiding hazards along the way, or falling to their death. Don’t be fooled by the simple premise. You will die a lot.
Heave Ho is definitely no walk in the park (Get it? Because you don’t have legs?). Levels are grouped together by a theme, such as jungle and canyon settings, with each group bringing new obstacles that increase the game’s difficulty. The jungle levels introduce rope swings, which are an enjoyable new dynamic, whereas the cherry blossom levels feature heavy boulders that players have to roll in order to get to the finish (and were the bane of my existence).
Heave Ho, Heave Ho, It's Off To Work We Go
Along the way, coins can be collected, sparingly, which can be used to unlock new character costumes. Random pop-up mini-games can also be played, such as basketball and a Follow the Leader-type of game, which can also unlock coins. Other customization options include character voices (which are hilarious to hear as they plummet to their blood-splattering death), as well as the option to remove the colored gloves used as a player aid to know which hand is which. It’s easy to get turned around while moving through the levels, so removing this assistance makes it better for more hardcore players.
Heave Ho can be played as a single-player game, and succeeds on that front. However, the real fun of the game lies in playing with up to four people at a time in true local couch co-op fashion. The levels can’t be completed until all members reach the end. This means that the team is only as strong as its weakest link. Players can work together to form chains or toss other players across the map, in the hopes that they’ll be able to grab onto the adjacent ledge. It’s high-stress gameplay that can lead to frustration (the group I played with had to take a 30-minute break at one point due to failure after failure), but provides an incredible sense of accomplishment once everyone makes it to the end of the level.
Priced at a reasonable $10, Heave Ho offers plenty for players to enjoy. It would be wonderful to have more levels, but hopefully, those can eventually come in future updates or DLC. Ultimately, the game is a fun way to kill a few minutes and is well-worth your time. We can definitely recommend picking up Heave Ho and hanging out with your friends. Literally.
4.5 Out Of 5 Stars
A Switch copy of Heave Ho was purchased by TheGamer for this review. Heave Ho is available now for Nintendo Switch and PC