The League of Legends universe expands in Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story, where an adventure unfolds as Nunu, the young champion, and his loyal yeti companion, Willump, set out on a journey. In this single-player adventure from Tequila Games, players will set out on a quest to reach the elusive Heart of the Blue in their pursuit of Nunu’s missing mother, Layka.
Introducing the Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story
Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story takes place in the Freljord. In the opening moments, Nunu and Willump encounter corrupted winter wolves. Willump takes the lead in battling the pack, while Nunu supports his yeti companion by hurling snowballs and using Willump’s magic to inflict additional damage. This sense of teamwork in battle plays a significant role in the narrative as we get to see a new side of these League characters.
The story sets up a quest where Nunu and Willump must set out to find Nunu’s mother, but that’s not exactly easy. While these challenges lay in front of them, the story still manages to set up a cozy narrative of friendship, teamwork, and overcoming hardships. The quest itself has higher stakes added to it as the two protagonists pull more at the threads of what is corrupting the Freljord and how they can potentially save it.
The Heartwarming Friendship of Nunu and Willump
During cutscenes and gameplay, the animations showcase the endearing bond between the two, from Nunu high-fiving Willump when they solve puzzles to Willump’s occasional over-the-top reactions, especially when he loses to Nunu. Willump also engages in various charming animations in the background while players explore the Freljord, such as the yeti sitting down to relax or taking a drink from a lake.
These endearing animations featuring Willump added an extra layer of enjoyment for me, often prompting me to take a moment’s pause to see what antics the big yeti would engage in. On occasion, when the player is in close proximity, Willump even approaches Nunu for a hug.
[perfectpullquote align=”full” bordertop=”false” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]The endearing animations featuring Willump added an extra layer of enjoyment for me, often prompting me to take a moment’s pause to see what antics the big yeti would engage in.[/perfectpullquote]
Then there’s Nunu himself. Nunu’s segments primarily revolve around platforming and exploring the caves where he and Willump find shelter. At times, Nunu becomes separated from Willump and must solve puzzles to reunite with his yeti friend.
Solving puzzles requires the use of Nunu’s magical flute, the Svellsongur, to create paths for him and Willump. Players are given four notes to play with the flute, combining them to create the songs. However, while it sounds straightforward, it did take some time to get used to the puzzle mechanics, but after playing for a few hours, it became much more natural.
Nonetheless, there are instances where puzzles demand quick timing with the Svellsongur, and making even a single mistake with a note can lead to restarting the puzzle. This aspect was somewhat frustrating and tedious, but I eventually honed my timing skills and made it through.
Despite occasional frustrations with the puzzle elements, the Svellsongur itself remains an intriguing mechanic. I often took a few minutes to play some notes with it when not engaged in platforming or puzzle-solving, with even Willump showing enthusiasm for the tunes I played.
Intriguing Gameplay Mechanics with the Svellsongur
Players should exercise caution while guiding Nunu and Willump through the perilous hazards of the Freljord, where a misstep could result in a fall. Thankfully, the game mercifully positions you a few meters back from where you fell if you make a mistake while platforming. This feature was a welcome relief during my playthrough, especially when compared to the occasionally frustrating puzzle elements.
[perfectpullquote align=”full” bordertop=”false” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]With its endearing characters, compelling story, and meticulously crafted world, this game stands as a nice addition to the League of Legends universe that only stumbles with a few confusing systems.[/perfectpullquote]
Throughout the player’s journey, they will also come across various collectibles, such as endearing creatures known as Poros that can be cheered up by feeding them, murals, and musical wind chimes. When played with the Svellsongur, these chimes produce a beautiful melody. The collectibles provide additional insights into the world of the Freljord, Nunu, and Willump’s lives and the League universe, with information that players can peruse in the game’s notebook section.
I found each note to be engaging, even though I’m not a League enthusiast. I enjoyed learning more about the world through the eyes of Nunu and Willump. We get to see their heartwarming friendship, which forms the emotional core of the game. Other League champions linked to the Freljord make appearances, as well. Heroes like Braum, the flame forger Ornn, and the dark witch Lissandra appear at certain points, with Lissandra serving as a formidable obstacle to the duo’s quest to reach the Heart of the Blue for her own reasons.
A Perfect Winter Adventure in the League of Legends Universe
Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story is the perfect winter adventure that can not only warm the hearts of League of Legends enthusiasts but also provide an enticing opportunity for those seeking a charming platforming experience with a touching narrative. With its endearing characters, compelling story, and meticulously crafted world, this game stands as a nice addition to the League of Legends universe that only stumbles with a few confusing systems.
