The Neverhood

What was the concept?

This was a hugely underrated game, released in 1996 for the PC with a sequel of sorts released in Japan for the PSX in 1997/8. The game is a point and click adventure game, similar to titles like Monkey Island and Simon the Sorcerer. You play the unusual protagonist, Klaymen, who wakes up with no idea where he is or what's going on. You're job is to eventually save the leader of Neverhood, Hoburg, and defeat the evil Klogg. However, Neverhood's real difference (and appeal) was that the entire game was made in claymation. All characters, scenery and effects were made using this technique, giving the entire game a very quirky feel.

Why was it good?

It was just so damn quirky, and there was something joyfully relaxing about moving around a claymation character; perhaps it reminded us of our younger days watching Wallace and Gromit. There was also an equally weird soundtrack that did nothing but add to the already stellar experience. Couple that with a great slapstick sense of humor and you have yourself a masterpiece.

How can it be revisited?

Just do it again Dreamworks. The game could be bigger, or longer but there is really little to improve with this concept; all we want is more of it. The only thing that could really be improved on are the visuals. Obviously the core of it all would remain with the classic claymation flare. However, throw in some CGI a la Wallace and Gromit: Curse of the Were Rabbit, and you have some effects not possible with standard claymation.

Chances of this Happening

Better than you'd think as the game has a large cult fan base, still, and Doug TenNapel has signed a deal with Frederator Films to make a feature film based on Neverhood. If Shrek can get a new game after every movie release, surely we could get one of Neverhood... please Doug?