Last Time I Saw You

  Recently Maboroshi Artworks released Last Time I Saw You for consoles and PC.  A hand drawn exploration game set in 1980’s Japan.  Telling the story of a young boy in rural Japan and an impending typhoon.  Leaning heavily of themes of family, love, community, and nature, this game is a rollercoaster ride of emotions.

  You play as Ayumi, a young boy that must navigate his family, friends, and the ancient lore of his rural village.  Due to a series of strange dreams, you feel pulled to an ancient “haunted” forest at the edge of town.  A nearing storm only makes this feeling more powerful.  It is up to you to find what lies in the woods and save your town from possible destruction and navigate the personal relationships in your life.

  Game play is fairly simple.  Walk around your world interacting with all the residents, while completing quests and solving some environmental puzzles.  Find hidden collectibles and learn about local lore as you explore and re-explore your small town.  Over the course of a week, you will discover more about your town and neighbors than you thought possible.

  The graphics in the title are amazing.  Beautifully hand drawn scenes transport you to this small village.  I found myself slowly walking past a river, just to admire the reflections of characters in the rippling waters below.  Expressive characters and animals fill the cast with joy.  Lights cast shadows that seem to take on a life of their own and rain softly dances down your screen to make you feel as if you are peering out of a window into this world.

  The story is one not to be missed.  Each interaction with an NPC draws you deeper into the world, and the history of your small town.  You learn about the history of your family, and the struggles that they have and are still enduring.  Try to navigate love, friendships, and family as you learn the path that you must follow to save your town.  It doesn’t seem like the choices you make really impact the game, the story is worth the time to explore.

  Last time I saw you is an interesting and involving game that will not tax your reflexes.  The story is more than enough to justify the price tag of about $17.  The graphics and sound design are far beyond many AAA titles, and just add to the games appeal.  Available on Xbox, Playstation, and PC this is a must buy for fans of games with engaging stories.