Overall, this is a game which knows exactly what story it’s trying to tell and goes the extra mile in presenting it in a visually satisfying way whilst making the voyage across it’s waves a satisfying one. It could have perhaps benefitted from a more a bit more depth in the combat department, however from the well-designed characters to the soothing soundtrack, everything that IS here culminates in a well performed, emotional and impactful tale.
To be honest I was surprised by this game. It looked a little too cutsie for me from the outside, but when given a chance, Beacon Pines delivers a very believably written and sometimes even comedic story. It has a strong heart pumping the odd thrill through its veins, and it’s a game I find quite difficult to criticise.
The small elements of suspense keep the game intriguing right until the end, and with the branching story paths you really feel like the narrator of this story. This isn’t the first time I’ve seen a game presented in this way; however, it truly does execute it excellently and will hold a place in my library as a fairly unique adventure experience, akin to childhood adventure films that would sometimes freak me out but it the very best of ways.
This game probably has one of the best soundtracks of 2023, hands down. Not just amongst indie games, but video games in general. Everything from the art style to the lore has just had meticulous care poured into it, which blends together into a game with a heartwarming story and simple yet satisfying gameplay.
It's a respectable depiction of Alzheimer's disease, however the voice acting and writing leaves a little to be desired in terms of authenitcity. Still, an admirable walking sim effort to depict a hard subject so I admire the game for that.
It’s short, but it’s oozing with passion for the topic it’s covering. Very simple controls allow you to enjoy swinging through the trees with ease, and leaves plenty of room for you to think about why the game was made in the first place.
I know there are many people out there who are going to LOVE Glitchhikers The Spaces Between, unfortunately I am not one of those. I can happily say I enjoyed my time with this game; however, I feel the lasting impression of this game could have been more impactful by meeting characters with a bit more personality and gameplay mechanics which felt a little more evolved.
Looking into the lead developer on this game, this seems to have been a true passion project which has finally come into fruition. It does have its technical issues which some may want to wait to be ironed out, but once they are, it’s an easy recommendation. From its well written narrative to it’s simple yet enjoyable platforming, I can happily recommend this wonderfully charming game.
This game does a brilliant job of telling a story that I could very much resonate with. It’s one that doesn’t have many twists and turns, but I liked it’s focus on subtle storytelling. It doesn’t bash you over the head with philosophical questions or pretend to have all the answers, it treats the player as someone who can read between the lines, making it’s narrative more thought-provoking on multiple levels.
Don’t get me wrong I loved the eye tracking feature to this game, it makes this story even more accessible to people who may have difficulties using their hands, but this is not why Before Your Eyes is worth your time. The fact they have blended innovative gaming with a truly touching story, makes this package come together into something quite special and one of a kind.
I have placed this game right alongside Spiritfarer as being a game I will remember for a very long time and revisit it every few years to experience again. It’s a story that reminds me that video games can truly have a lasting effect on a person.
This is one of those games that I stumble across every now and again, and I hope many others have and will stumble across. In what I can only imagine was a true passion project, Spiritfarer is a testament to what happens when a group of developers and creatives come together to create a game with a clear goal. It’s characters and story tell tales which everyone can relate to, intertwined with relaxed gameplay and memorable music. Did I mention if you play in co-op, you can play as a cat?