I mostly play FPS games, tactical shooters, and some vintage RTS games. But my real passion are RPG games of old with some dark fantasy setting. But, really, all that ever mattered to me, besides a good, bug free user interface, was to find an authentic immersive story. Having said that, as I'm getting older (passed 36 a few days ago), it's getting harder for me to find s ome trully new experience among new PC games. So I got this one free through a GOG giveaway, and one cold morning just decided to try it out. And boy, it was good! Not too short, and not too long - I finished it in about four hours. I don't mind you basically don't use any controls other than the occasional click on the "emotional bubble" to give the conversation a more specific tone or tell Peter where to go. This is more of a interactive novel than anything else, but hey - it's the story and the way this story was told. This can't be a bad thing, this was simply the choice developers make all the time. You either enjoy it or not, vote with your money. And the team did really outstanding work. I was sucked into it completely. I also need to emphasize the work of the voice acting - British drama at it's best. Artwork, visual style? Yeah, we all do have are preferences, but you can't say anything less than "beautiful, artsy, vintage, soothing". Same applies to music and the whole "athmospheric" experience. Finally - the story. I don't agree or find myself to be anything like our main protagonist Peter. I don't even am fond of the whole patriarchy vs. feminism or whatever narrative. Hell, the whole presentation of the Cold War is something I have a very specific view on. This list can go on for a bit... But this game really allowed me to get into someone else's boots, and just try to look the things from different point of view. And I learned a lot by doing that. It was emotional. It's worth your time.
Every late autumn I install this gem of a game. I mostly play on easy, but on certain days, especially when the snow is outside, I pour myself a pint later on Saturday evening, turn of the lights, light a small candle, put on my bracelets and Viking ring, start the ytb playlist with warrior viking music in the background and begin the journey... Even without any of that, it's great fun to play this game. Game mechanics are really simple, you can master the basics in a couple of minutes. Mastering the strategy gets progressivelly harder but you'll develop your own style in time. Procedurally made maps offer a ton of replayability. After several battles with your crew, especially surviving some pitched battles, will make you care for them and watch they don't perma-die. On the other hand, the game doesn't smother you with heavy story nor any cheap philosophy message. Just live through the carnage, by being smart and flexible. Kill your enemies. Survive. Art style is beautiful in every aspect, I probably made the most screen shots than from any other game. They become great wallpapers later. But everyone's taste is different... What's complementary to the style is that the game runs smoothly and without bugs. Add to that some cool sound design and simple, athmospheric music and you got yourself a nice game treat...
