don't get me wrong: i understand why everyone praises the atmosphere of this game, but i want to point out the gameplay as well being really unique! every puzzle had a different feel to it, something new. it keeps you on your toes right until the end.

that said, i didn't go into this expecting a story-heavy experience, but it delivered on that front wonderfully. the off-beat, almost space funeral-esque dialogue juxtaposes well with the moments of real thought-provoking conversation. it paints a picture of the future that isn't devoid of hope, just one that has a huge amount of systemic work to be done. despite everything, their failing bodies being replaced with metal parts, the nagging sense that there's more for them in the world, they still have their dreams to hold onto. and walking around, feeding them, you can feel it affecting the world. i was surprised to find people appreciating the cooking work being done: the player character is shown to have considerable skill with a pan. i guess it's all they can really do. but it's nice to see it appreciated.

really cool time! i spent way longer on it than i should have (i am bad at video games) but it would have been a good value either way.