To The Moon

Someone called this a visual novel, and that's a great way to describe it. About a third of the way in I really thought this was going to tug at my heart strings, but I have to say the story went a different way to what I expected and in the end it didn't much. However, it's an extremely clever and well written 'visual novel', with a fantastic soundtrack, loads of wit and it's easy to see the care and love that went into its creation. Recommended.

I usually despise playing games where you have to read the dialogue but this game was such a great story that I was looking forward to reading every word it really is a game that makes you think, What would have to change in your own life to get your wish. Btw the music is really moving to!

For the longest of times I was under the impression that I would never play a game that could make me cry. Many others had tried, and while some came close, none succeeded. Until now. The gameplay consists primarily of looking around and finding memories to solve a very simplistic puzzle for getting to new stages. And yet despite this it is the story and characters that keep you intrigued. The entire mystery behind why Johnny wants to go to the moon quickly develops into a fascinating tale of regret, second chances, and why and how people closest to us can have the most impact in our lives. And it helps that while both of the main characters fit certain cliches to an extent, as Eva and Neil begin to learn about Johnny's past we in turn understand them more. And the fact that the game never flat out explains why a few characters have distinct problems with certain subjects ( Eva seems to have a distaste for marriage) it only helps flesh out and compliment them as characters. And when all is said and done, as I experienced the final 10 minutes of this game I could not help but cry from both equal amounts of heart wrenching sadness but also unmeasurable joy. My impressions going into this game that it would make me cry were shot down by my scepticism, until actually experiencing it first hand for myself.

It may not have the most dazzling graphics or the most intriguing puzzles, but the story makes up for everything else and then some. The well written plot, carefully prepared scenery, and amazing musical scores takes you along for a wonderful ride that you will not soon forget. Don't forget to get the music files.

This game is nothing but a story, but a beautiful, moving story it is. As you look further and further into Johnny's past, it will make you think about your own life - where you've been, where you are, and where you're going. Keep a box of tissues handy.