Heave Ho 2 Review – Grabbing Greatness

Heave Ho 2 Review

It’s not often that a ridiculous premise can hit so hard that it goes down in the annals of history as one of the greatest in its genre. Released in 2019, Heave Ho managed that feat, standing as one of the best multiplayer games of recent times thanks to its combination of teamwork, momentum-based gameplay, and hilarious human error. Although these elements converged to create a unique experience, will the developers be able to build on this foundation to reach even greater heights?

Multiplayer games must include several elements to encourage players of all ages and skill levels to get involved: simple controls, a clear objective, and instant fun. Heave Ho 2 manages to capture each of these requirements, creating a joyous atmosphere in seconds of play. For those unfamiliar with the original, you play as a legless blob. In order to move around the level, you must use the corresponding trigger to grab hold of the terrain and tumble through the environment. With your buddies beside you, together you can create a long chain of characters and use your momentum to swing across gaps to reach far-off platforms.

Grab My Hand!

With a game focused on multiplayer, it’s vital to include several ways to play, and the sequel does this exceptionally well. In addition to the beloved, and probably best, option, couch co-op, you can also jump online to play with friends. Although a small addition, this makes a huge difference, allowing you to play together regardless of location and making it easier than ever to share the experience. GameShare further broadens the multiplayer madness with both local and online options, encouraging engagement whenever and wherever you are.

As swinging is a key component, the physics need to support your launch across the abyss. There’s nothing worse than gathering the right momentum, letting go at the optimum angle, only to fall flat on your face. While there’s a lot of silliness with the game, Le Cartel Studio ensures that the physics are consistent, meaning failure lies squarely with the player. This results in comical chaos as you work together, flinging one another to key locations to complete your objective.

There aren’t many games that bottle pure joy so effectively. Whether you’re working as a well-oiled machine to move from A to B or fumble your way through, causing chaos along, each moment is packed with laughter. Due to the quick respawn, falling to your death isn’t an issue, as you can quickly rejoin your pals. However, this can lead to some top-tier trolling, as you watch your partner reach for safety only to let go of their hand and fall to their demise. Beautiful.

Climbing Over the Original

Whereas the original gives you multiple platforming challenges to conquer, the sequel expands on the premise in zany and hilarious ways. Each of the 8 new worlds is packed with silly objectives and scenarios that build on the original. From zip lining across the mountains to controlling large contraptions, levels are much more varied this time around, with puzzle elements seamlessly woven into the level design, leading to even more memorable moments of hilarity. Capping off each world is a larger level which tests an array of skills to overcome. By using mechanics from prior stages, the climactic challenges feel like a culmination of everything you’ve learnt to deliver its most memorable moments.

If you’re sick of playing together, you can go against one another. Here you must either race, kill or survive in a range of scenarios to earn a point. The first to five is the winner. While not as fun as the co-operative segment, it’s a nice change of pace which pushes you to use the mechanics differently to complete the objective.

Visually, the game continues with its vibrant, cartoon aesthetic, which carries a welcoming charm that appeals to players of all ages. Its messy design adds to the shambolic atmosphere to create a truly wonderful experience. Visual cues support engagement. You can make your character wear gloves to indicate your left and right hand, which helps as you try to navigate the terrain. The art direction and subtle animations clearly signal grabbable surfaces. Backed with a pleasant soundtrack which perfectly accompanies the action and you have a cohesive presentation that complements the game’s light-hearted chaos.

Raise Your Arms

Heave Ho 2 is a brilliant multiplayer and an essential centrepiece to any party. The simple premise and controls make this perfect for players of any skill level to pick up and play. While the original focused on its addictive gameplay loop, the sequel expands on these to create a more varied experience. With optional objectives and support in place if you get stuck, there’s enough here to keep you hooked for hours on end. Silly, funny and brilliant, this is a must-play multiplayer experience that never fails to raise a smile.

***Switch 2 code provided by the publisher for review***