Never got to finish HBW1 and couldn't repeat last year.
Overall: It's a Mooglerampage game; of course it's gonna be awesome. Gameplay obviously delivers with a genius combat system which leans into the dimension-traveling story. This formula is supported by a classic 16-bit feel and a great blend of serious storytelling and some lighter-hearted comedy. If there's a game that embodies the overall category, it's this one.
Gameplay: The different battle systems per character is so cool, and I love how the Dark Realm has you use every character to get rid of the force field. Had to go into the final battle with my boy Chip of course. Crafting looked cool as well but I ultimately didn't use it.
Music: Love the classic 16-bit soundtrack which perfectly compliments the graphics. It almost leans too Uematsu, although that's no fault of your own.
Comedy: Love a serious game that manages to sprinkle in some comedy here and there. Great balance of both.
Graphics: Big fan of the SNES aesthetic you always pursue in Harold Jams. Are the player sprites custom? If so you did a damn good job with those.
Story: One of the longer stories of the jam but definitely worth the time. Some HBW1 bits were lost on me but I loved seeing all the other universes created by members of the RPGBT community.