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The Howler

iOS, Android, PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac • 2014

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Quick resume

Use gravity, tension, and wind currents to get your hot air balloon to its destination, dropping off cargo on your way, in this ultra-challenging physics-based game. All art used in the Howler was meticulously created by classically-trained experienced painters.

Global score

78/100

Genres

Casual, Indie, Simulator, Strategy, Platform, Puzzle, Adventure

Pros

  • Unique voice control mechanic
  • Beautiful hand-drawn steampunk art style
  • Simple and accessible gameplay
  • Low price with trading cards
  • Relaxing atmosphere

Cons

  • Very short game length
  • Lack of achievements
  • Limited replay value
  • No fullscreen or resolution options
  • Some frustration with controls and balloon physics

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    3

    "Players control the balloon's vertical movement freely via mouse or voice commands, but horizontal movement is dictated by wind currents, blending player control with environmental influence."

  • Competence
    2

    "The game involves skillful timing and precision to navigate wind currents and avoid obstacles, with some levels requiring repeated attempts, but overall mechanics are simple and accessible."

  • Competition
    -4

    "No evidence of competitive modes or player comparison; gameplay focuses on individual progress and personal challenge."

  • Continuation
    1

    "Short game length (~1-2 hours) and some frustration with controls limit long-term engagement, but unique voice control and art style encourage replay for enjoyment."

  • Cooperation
    -5

    "Entirely single-player experience with no cooperative elements mentioned."

  • Creativity
    3

    "Unique voice control mechanic and hand-drawn art style provide creative expression, though gameplay follows preset level designs."

  • Domination
    -5

    "No elements of exerting power or superiority over others; gameplay is solitary and non-confrontational."

  • Escapism
    3

    "Relaxing steampunk atmosphere and artistic visuals offer a pleasant escape from reality."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily for fun or relaxation, often attracted by art style and unique controls rather than obligation."

  • Experimenting
    3

    "Voice control and physics-based wind navigation encourage players to experiment with different strategies and sounds."

  • Exploration
    1

    "Players explore different levels with varying objectives and environments, though the game is short and levels are limited."

  • Expression
    2

    "Artistic style and voice input allow some personal expression, but no character customization or environment modification."

  • Fantasy
    1

    "Set in a stylized steampunk version of Vilnius with some fictional elements, blending imaginative fiction with historical setting."

  • Fellowship
    -5

    "No social or community features; gameplay is individual."

  • Growth
    2

    "Players improve skill in controlling the balloon and mastering wind currents, though learning curve is mild."

  • Health
    -5

    "No physical activity or health-related gameplay elements."

  • Idle
    -3

    "Requires focused attention due to timing and precision; not suitable for passive or background play."

  • Intimacy
    -5

    "No close social relationships or emotional sharing involved."

  • Leadership
    -5

    "No leadership or group management elements."

  • Progression
    2

    "Progression through levels with increasing difficulty and unlocking a bonus level, but no item collection or upgrades."

  • Relaxation
    3

    "Calm, artistic atmosphere and simple controls provide a relaxing experience despite some challenging moments."

  • Sensation
    2

    "Enjoyable hand-drawn visuals and ambient sounds provide sensory pleasure, though sound design is minimal."

  • Status
    -5

    "No social recognition or ranking systems present."

  • Story
    1

    "Minimal narrative connected to a steampunk novel, presented in brief texts before levels; story is light and secondary."

  • Strategy
    2

    "Requires planning and timing to navigate wind currents and complete objectives, though gameplay is straightforward."

  • Thrill
    0

    "Some tension from avoiding obstacles and time limits, but overall experience is calm and low risk."

  • Value
    4

    "Low price and availability of trading cards make it a good value for short, casual play."

  • Violence
    -3

    "Minimal violence; some levels involve dropping bombs but gameplay is mostly non-violent and focused on navigation."

  • Survival
    1

    "Avoiding balloon popping and managing time limits adds light survival challenge."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026