(Takes around 6 - 8 hours to complete, depending on how good you are)
This is probably the best detective game out there. With an amazing artstyle, good story and an incredibly satisfying gameplay loop, it is a game you should definitely pick up.
Story
You are an insurance investigator tasked with finding out what happened to the crew of the ship Obra Dinn, with the help of a magic watch that shows the last moments of someone's life. Because of this, you play the role of an observer looking at all the trials and tribulations that the ship went through. They are told to you in a non-linear manner, oftentimes you will see the end of a chapter before the beginning. This might seem confusing, but due to this being a detective game, you will always be paying close attention to whatever is happening.
Gameplay
The gameplay consists mainly of figuring out the fates of the crew (what was their name, how did they die). This is done perfectly with almost no hand holding, allowing you to fail endlessly. It might seem like this would just end with frustration; however, the game gives you enough clues to figure out the fate of everyone. Also, the “Aha” feeling of finally figuring out the fate of someone, through a series of deduction and exemption, is unmatched by anything.
Graphics
Don't be put off by its black and white aesthetic, this is a very beautiful game. Paying homage to older video games while also looking like it was made in this decade is pulled off perfectly here. Never was I confused or missed something because it was in the shadows. Also, great sound effects and voice acting.
Soundtrack
Nice classical music that fits with the aesthetic of the rest of the game. Favourite part is "Soldiers of the sea".
Final Thoughts
Some of the most entertaining 8 hours of my life. Lucas Pope can make games like this one until the end of time, and I will be there to play every one of them.
This is probably the best detective game out there. With an amazing artstyle, good story and an incredibly satisfying gameplay loop, it is a game you should definitely pick up.
Story
You are an insurance investigator tasked with finding out what happened to the crew of the ship Obra Dinn, with the help of a magic watch that shows the last moments of someone's life. Because of this, you play the role of an observer looking at all the trials and tribulations that the ship went through. They are told to you in a non-linear manner, oftentimes you will see the end of a chapter before the beginning. This might seem confusing, but due to this being a detective game, you will always be paying close attention to whatever is happening.
Gameplay
The gameplay consists mainly of figuring out the fates of the crew (what was their name, how did they die). This is done perfectly with almost no hand holding, allowing you to fail endlessly. It might seem like this would just end with frustration; however, the game gives you enough clues to figure out the fate of everyone. Also, the “Aha” feeling of finally figuring out the fate of someone, through a series of deduction and exemption, is unmatched by anything.
Graphics
Don't be put off by its black and white aesthetic, this is a very beautiful game. Paying homage to older video games while also looking like it was made in this decade is pulled off perfectly here. Never was I confused or missed something because it was in the shadows. Also, great sound effects and voice acting.
Soundtrack
Nice classical music that fits with the aesthetic of the rest of the game. Favourite part is "Soldiers of the sea".
Final Thoughts
Some of the most entertaining 8 hours of my life. Lucas Pope can make games like this one until the end of time, and I will be there to play every one of them.