Video games have thrived to become more cinematic for a decade or two now. This takes the idea to the next level by being basically a playable movie.
What better way to start the game than by showing the point-of-view character through a mirror introduction? |
That is, sincerely, all I wish to say about the plot proper, as this is an experience to play by yourself. Now, let me tell you WHY it’s an experience. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill investigation game. As I said, it’s more akin to a playable movie, which creates an almost unique effect.
Very much evoking the "movie" aesthetic, with this very "DVD menu"-esque title screen. "Continue" is renamed "Resume Feature" even! |
Virginia is indeed cut like a film; unnecessary parts are taken out (as an example, instead of going down the whole flight of stairs, you go down a few and then cut to Anne walking through a corridor, at the bottom of the stairs). Smash cuts and fade-ins/fade-outs are common. Camera tricks aren’t used quite as often as the game is played in first person from Anne’s perspective, but it does lead to interesting points of view. Seeing everything happen like you’re literally one of the participants is nothing new in video games, but it’s fresh and special in a story cut like a film.
That birdie, in that signature red plumage, has to be significant to the story. That it escapes may mean even more. |
Is that envelope going to yell at me? |
Oh, and need I mention the diverse cast, with the two main characters (Anne and Maria) being women of color? Because that’s very welcome.
A strong recommendation. Oh yeah, this is a great experience, you should play Virginia. It’s good. It's available on Steam usually for about 10$.
And with this, the series of quick reviews for this month is complete! Tune in... er... as soon as possible, and I'll try to publish a few more reviews before the end of the year. If I can get at least one done I'll be happy. Hopefully I can go back to doing quick reviews like these and post many of them throughout a future month again, this was fun!
And with this, the series of quick reviews for this month is complete! Tune in... er... as soon as possible, and I'll try to publish a few more reviews before the end of the year. If I can get at least one done I'll be happy. Hopefully I can go back to doing quick reviews like these and post many of them throughout a future month again, this was fun!
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