Rainbow Billy: The Curse of the Leviathan is a wholesome, creature capture, 2.5D Adventure-Puzzle-Platformer with over 30 hours of gameplay!
The core gameplay revolves around collecting and befriending over 60 distinct creatures. Instead of battling to capture them, players must navigate emotional "confrontations" by choosing empathetic dialogue options to help the creatures overcome their personal struggles. Each creature has a unique personality, backstory, and set of issues to address. Completing these confrontations adds the creature to the player's "Friend-Ship" crew, unlocking them as a party member for future battles. The depth of the creature designs and the emotionally-driven confrontation system make collecting these characters a rewarding experience.
Beyond the creature encounters, the game features classic 2.5D puzzle-platforming exploration of a storybook-inspired open world. Players navigate the sprawling islands and caves of the "World of Imagination," solving environmental puzzles and uncovering hidden collectibles. While not overly difficult, the platforming challenges are well-designed and integrated seamlessly into the world. Puzzles range from simple block-pushing to more complex, multi-step problems that require careful observation and experimentation. Exploring the world and discovering new areas is highly encouraged, with numerous optional paths and secrets to uncover.
The game's "combat" system eschews traditional battles in favor of a unique, minigame-based approach to confrontations. Each creature has a specific "attack" minigame, such as timing button presses or avoiding obstacles. The player must strategically select the optimal creature for each confrontation, based on the minigame required and the creature's personality. Successful completion of the minigame allows the player to "resolve" the confrontation by filling the creature's heart with color. This system encourages players to familiarize themselves with the diverse set of minigames, creating an engaging, non-violent approach to the game's emotional challenges.
Underpinning the gameplay loop is a poignant, character-driven narrative that tackles a range of emotional and social issues with nuance and care. As players befriend the diverse cast of creatures, they are presented with opportunities to delve into the characters' backstories and help them overcome personal challenges. The thoughtful dialogue choices allow players to guide these characters towards self-acceptance and growth, fostering a genuine sense of connection and empathy. The charming, cartoon-inspired visuals and an emotive soundtrack further elevate the game's storytelling, creating a cohesive and immersive experience.