A Deep Dive into "Back Then" by Octopus Embrace
This game, "Back Then," invites players into a poignant exploration of a man’s battle with Alzheimer’s. Through the eyes of the protagonist, Tom, players embark on a heartfelt journey, experiencing the complexities of memory loss and the emotional weight attached to each fleeting recollection.
The gameplay intertwines storytelling with puzzle-solving, as players navigate through the assorted "seasons" of Tom’s life. Though the experience is enriched with immersive dialogue and environmental storytelling, it is not without its challenges; the gameplay can sometimes feel cumbersome and disorienting.
Navigating the Emotional Landscape
Created by Octopus Embrace, "Back Then" serves as a sensitive representation of living with Alzheimer’s. Players start in a snowy, tranquil forest and gradually move along a somewhat disorienting path, accompanied by haunting voices from Tom’s past. The absence of visible faces throughout the game deepens the sense of confusion, mirroring the complexities of dementia itself.
Tom’s exploration largely comprises searching for key items and solving puzzles to trigger memories. However, the expansive environments can lead to moments of disorientation, with some riddles posing a significant challenge. Observing notes scattered throughout Tom’s familiar spaces aids players in piecing together his fragmented memories, but the slow pace can contribute to a sense of frustration.
Reflecting on Regrets
As Tom traverses through his memories, he encounters fragmented thoughts of his daughter and son, both expressing their love and longing for the past. The emotional undertones resonate strongly with players as they confront the universal themes surrounding life’s regrets. Each step Tom takes reveals a spectrum of feelings, encapsulating the essence of love even in the face of forgetting.
The game’s chapter structure can present a challenge for players. Progress is only saved upon completing a chapter, and if you happen to exit midway, be prepared to restart. While the chapters are manageable in length, the lack of clear objectives and standout items can slow down the overall pacing of the game.
The Verdict: Is "Back Then" Worth Your Time?
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆
"Back Then" is a brief yet impactful exploration that provides a heartfelt window into the experience of Alzheimer’s. While some gameplay mechanics can feel aimless, the beautiful storytelling and artistic presentation make up for it. It successfully encapsulates the message of love and connection, even amidst the chaos of memory loss.
If you’re looking for a meaningful narrative that deals with profound themes, "Back Then" is certainly worth considering. However, if you prefer fast-paced, action-oriented gameplay, you may not find this experience fulfilling.
Pros
- Emotional Storyline: Captures the essence of living with Alzheimer’s with sensitivity and complexity.
- Rich Dialogue: Engaging conversations enrich the narrative and provide depth to the characters.
- Artistic Presentation: Visually captivating environments that evoke strong emotions.
Cons
- Cumbersome Gameplay: Navigation can feel slow and disorienting, leading to potential frustration.
- Vague Objectives: Key items and goals are not always clear, impacting overall pacing.
- No Save Points Mid-Chapter: Progress saves only at the end of each chapter, which can lead to losing progress if you exit prematurely.
Availability
"Back Then" is available for purchase through the Sony PlayStation Store and Steam.
For those intrigued by story-rich experiences that tackle serious themes with grace, "Back Then" represents a blend of gaming and art that speaks to the heart.
