A Space for the Unbound is a narrative adventure game that deals with issues as important as they are difficult to deal with, but it does so with extreme tact and elegance through a particularly apt allegory. The game tells the tale of Atma and Raya, two high-school students growing up in late-90s Indonesia. The story can be surprisingly intense and ably tackles thorny issues such as the consequences of school bullying, and the terrible toll taken by anxiety, depression and domestic abuse. The gameplay mechanics are relatively straightforward but freshened up nicely by the Space Dive mechanic. Despite some flaws in the gameplay mechanics, rather repetitive towards the end of the game, the story of Atma and Raya is one worth experiencing.
The Makoto Shinkai influenced visuals are always charming and suffused with realism; buildings have discoloured tiles, tree branches cast shadows over the pavement, and paint gives way to expose the bricks underneath on an arcade wall. The clouds above are gorgeous, whether dark against the sunset or bright against a teal sky. The soundtrack reinforces this enchanting feel, with tracks that are full of character, bouncy, but also melancholic at other times.
The game’s narrative is well-written and engaging throughout. It’s a story that will keep you hooked from start to finish. The characters are well-developed and relatable, making it easy to become invested in their journey. The themes explored in A Space for the Unbound are heavy but handled with care and sensitivity. It’s a game that will make you think about your own life and experiences long after you’ve finished playing.
The puzzles in A Space for the Unbound are relatively simple but enjoyable nonetheless. They’re not too challenging but provide enough of a challenge to keep things interesting. The Space Dive mechanic is a nice touch that adds some variety to the gameplay.
Overall, A Space for the Unbound is an excellent narrative adventure game that tackles serious issues with grace and sensitivity. It’s a game that will stay with you long after you’ve finished playing it. If you’re looking for an engaging story-driven game that explores important themes in a thoughtful way, then A Space for the Unbound is definitely worth checking out.
REVIEW : WHALIEN – Unexpected Guests (PC)
