Hyper Games' Quest to Introduce Moomins to a Wider Audience
The world is divided into two types 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 daunting task, as it encompasses a wide range of emotions and themes, from poetry and melancholy to queerness and darkness. The Moomin series is a cultural phenomenon, with nine books translated into 44 languages, numerous TV adaptations, and a theme park in Finland. Hyper Games, a Norwegian developer, is working on Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley, a semi-open world game inspired by Tove Jansson's work and the Zelda series. The game's protagonist, Snufkin, is a musician and wanderer who embodies the spirit of freedom and non-materialism. The development team faced challenges in adapting the depth and tone of Jansson's universe into a game, but they are committed to staying true to the original work. With the support of Moomin Characters, the company owning the IP, Hyper Games aims to introduce the Moomins to a new audience and provide a unique gaming experience that combines exploration, music, and adventure.