Shelter is a third person badger simulator from Might and Delight and it’s a game which requires you to act as mother to five cubs: protecting them, feeding them and guiding them to safety. It’s more linear than I had expected but the unusual subject matter and pastel palette make it a feast for the eyes and the noggin. The drama of the story has driven me to write an open letter to one of its characters.
To Spiky, of the badger family:
Spiky, you were not my favourite of the litter. However, you made it clear that you were a badger with survival instincts. You did not wince when Stripey was battered against rocks by the river’s current. You did not mourn when a hawk’s talons snatched Spotty. You cried out only when your belly craved more turnips with which to fatten yourself.
Spiky, this planet does not support sufficiently large ecosystems to satisfy such a turnip lust. Even as the forest burned and our family dwindled I fed you. I had to, you were the only cub left and your greedy little whelps distracted me from the grief.
When the hawk came for me. I knew you would not help. You hid your engorged belly as best as you could among the grass and ignored my struggle out of cowardice. You left me to die.
My only solace is knowing that your overeating will lead you to some form of badger diabetes and you will likely die hungry and doubtless, alone.
Your mother,
John Hendry
Shelter is a beautiful game. It’s reminiscent of The Animals Of Farthing Wood in its brutality and its charm. I highly anticipate seeing more from Might and Delight. It’s available from the their website or can be added to your sett on Steam.
Games Whinge 