Overall I think the game was worth Sam Barlow's time and effort making and releasing it and worth my time playing it. It's very different and has some cute ideas, which really help the game e.g the old desktop, the old computer sounds, the sounds of the room you're in. I think the LOGIN database interface is a problem though. I mean you'd have to think "Why can't I just watch the all the clips in order?". I think being able to bring up a precise line in the interrogation only really makes sense if you've already heard it completely and, as is said in one of the readme files on the desktop, want to use a specific line as evidence in court.
If you suppose that there is a valid reason that you can't just watch all the clips in order and have to fit them together like a linear jigsaw, then I suppose it's an interesting idea and fun. As for the game not having an ending as such.....it KIND OF has an ending. Actually, though it's different from the norm, I like the idea of deciding for yourself when you've learned enough. I suppose there is replay value. Not a lot, but for the price there's probably enough.
The story and acting are ok. Some have called cliché, but I think there are a few things to set it apart from similar murder stories. There are parts that are shocking though a little implausible. One reviewer dismissed the game as "feminist", but I don't think it is necessarily. It could be argued that there is a little bit of sexploitation, though that might just be a matter of perception.
So I think you get your money's worth in this game and that Sam Barlow has come with a minimalist game that works.
