A Highland Song is a narrative-driven immersive platformer from the great minds of British development studio, Inkle. Laying focus on the famously remote mountainous Scottish Highlands, the game offers a winding journey seeped in magic, mystery, folklore and tradition.

Set for release on Steam and Nintendo Switch on December 11, A Highland Song bears all of the hallmarks of a heartwarming classic.

Moira’s Story – The Wholesome Voyage of A Highland Song

Even at 15-years-old, Moira McKinnon has yet to set her eyes on the sprawling beauty of the the ocean. All of her life, she has stayed with her mother in a small and humble home out in the backwoods in the Highlands of “Bonny Scotland”.

Moira’s mundane but relatively happy life takes an exciting turn when she one day receives a letter from her Uncle Hamish, informing her of a wonderful surprise he has waiting for her. Consumed with curiosity (as we would all be), our young heroine makes a brave decision and sets out to meet Uncle Aitch at his lighthouse. However, Moira must traverse the picturesque Scottish countryside and venture into the unknown, if she is to claim her mysterious prize.

The Traditional Melodies of A Highland Song

Inkle hold no punches when it comes to setting the tone and the soundtrack stands as a true testament to this. The music is produced by Scottish composer, Laurence Chapman, alongside two multi-award winning legends of the Scottish folk music circles, Talisk and Fourth Moon.

The result of employing local talent is an authentic, dramatic and sometimes haunting symphony that perfectly encapsulates the very essence of Scotland. Furthermore, the eclectic range between fast and upbeat tracks and slow and sorrowful music means there’s always a melody to flawlessly match the situation at hand.

A Highland Sound – Gameplay and Graphics

A Highland Sound is an emotional journey, through the Scottish Highlands. The beautiful but deadly rural Scottish countryside will throw an abundance of challenges your way as you traverse, slide, navigate and survive in order to reach your loving uncle.

Of course, the road to riches is rarely paved with gold and to reach your destination you must first survive the treacherous journey ahead. Fight off hunger and shelter yourself from the fierce Scottish elements as you navigate the hostile environment in an unforgettable adventure.

Throughout A Highland Song you must use your wits and cunning to push forward. Climb peaks to find your path and speak with interesting characters to help you with your goal. Each friend or foe that you meet comes with their very own set of dialogue options, delve deeper into the weaving story as you explore their backstories and learn more of their lives.

A Highland Song is far more than your average “2.5D platform adventure”, there’s also a rhythm/beat element where the music forms around the landscape and matches your every action with its enthralling ways. This certainly makes the game stand out among the ocean of games of a similar ilk and one of the many little touches of genius that make A Highland Song the memorable title that it is.

A Highland Song – Summary

With its picturesque landscapes and distinguished art-style, A Highland Song is a game full of beauty and wonderment. Visiting castle ruins; overgrown crags and expansive, shimmering lakes I couldn’t help but take a moment to bask in the jaw-dropping artistry of every scene.

With that being said, A Highland Song has far more going for it than it’s graphics. The rich story twists and turns and it doesn’t take long to build a real affinity for the protagonist and find yourself lost in the narrative, so expertly woven to charm, shock and immerse those lucky enough to have stumbled upon such a masterpiece.