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More often than not, Xbox Game Pass always delivers a regular cadence of high-quality indie games. With games like Vampire Survivors, Cult of the Lamb, etc. gamers have flocked to these smaller gems in the absence of Big Blockbuster exclusives. Rainbow Billy: The Curse of the Leviathan is my most recent obsession thanks to the service. It’s a 2.5d, creature capture adventure-puzzle-platformer, developed by ManaVoid Entertainment and published by Skybound Games.
A World Devoid of Color.
Let’s face it, the world can be a scary place. So many of us struggle with accepting ourselves for who we are, and that is reflected beautifully in Rainbow Billy: The Curse of the Leviathan. At the beginning of the game, our characters’ worlds are full of color. This allows them to be themselves, making them cheerful and loving. But, the Leviathan who is colorless, steals all the color from the world, except Billy’s, and you must go on a magical and fun journey to restore color to the world.
I love games that tell meaningful stories in fun new ways. There’s a lesson in this game that is important for all ages, and it’s presented beautifully.
The Friends You Make Along the Way
Restoring color to the world is quite a daunting task, especially alone. Luckily for you, gaining friends in Rainbow Billy: The Curse of The Leviathan is a crucial mechanic. Like the rest of the world, the majority of people have lost their colors, exposing them to all of their insecurities and flaws.
You’ll meet so many endearing characters throughout your play-through, and you’ll learn just how essential friendship is in a dark and cold world. The coolest part of gaining these friends is how developer Manavoid Entertainment incorporates the power of talking into its battle system.
We All Need Someone to talk to
As you go from island to island on your friend/talking boat aptly named “Friend-ship.” You’ll come across characters who are devoid of color. A battle will initiate once you approach them, and you must talk to them by learning what troubles them. This will reveal their colors to you, which allows you to recolor them with the friends you’ve already made.
It was so touching seeing characters talk about their struggles very openly, and helping them to see the good in it. This was simply stellar game design from the developers, and I applaud them for it.
What’s even cooler is once you’ve made these friends they hang out below deck on your boat pal. You can go and visit them whenever you like and even bring them gifts you find in the world. They request said gifts, and by doing this your friends will level up.
Closing
Rainbow Billy: The Curse of the Leviathan is an important game for all ages. Now more than ever, we need to be accepting of everyone, because we’re all human and this game does a stellar job of highlighting that. With a charming world, enchanting characters, and a thoughtful message, you’ll find plenty to enjoy in this game.
Always be yourself, always be kind, and never be afraid to show your true colors.
