Hyper Games Embarks on a Mission to Introduce Moomins to the Masses

The world is divided into two groups of people: those who grew up with Tove Jansson's Moomin series and those who have never heard of it. Describing Jansson's universe to someone unfamiliar with it is a challenging task, as it encompasses a wide range of emotions and themes, including poetry, melancholy, queerness, darkness, fear, joy, and a deep connection with nature. Her work is a must-read that celebrates individuality and the beauty of life's simple things. The Moomin series has become a cultural phenomenon, with nine books translated into 44 languages, numerous TV adaptations, a theme park in Finland, and a significant following worldwide. However, its popularity varies by country, with some nations embracing the series more than others. In the US, for example, the Moomins are not well-known, whereas in Japan, they have a huge following. Are Sundnes, co-founder of Hyper Games, aims to change this with the upcoming game Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley. The game is inspired by Tove Jansson's work and features Snufkin, a musician and wanderer, as the main character. Sundnes sees similarities between Snufkin and Link from the Zelda series, which has inspired the game's overall design. The game's development has been a challenging but rewarding experience, with the team working to balance the game's atmosphere and tone with Tove Jansson's style. The game features a semi-open world, a musical aspect, and a unique approach to character progression, with Snufkin collecting inspiration instead of items. Hyper Games has worked closely with Moomin Characters, the company owning the IP, to ensure that the game stays true to Tove Jansson's vision. The game is set to release in Q1 2024, and Sundnes believes it will appeal to both Moomin fans and gamers looking for a wholesome experience. The game's publisher, Raw Fury, shares Hyper Games' Nordic roots and commitment to quality, making them a natural fit for the project. With Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley, Hyper Games aims to introduce the Moomins to a new audience and bring a unique gaming experience to the market.