(Watch the above video for a FULL playthrough, otherwise my actual review is below) Games don't relax me like they used to. Perhaps it's because I made a hob-JOB-by out of playing them and commentating over them, or perhaps it's that I sometimes surround myself with people that are too critical on this form of artwork to ever actually enjoy it. I don't know, but the point is; games don't relax me like they used to, but this one most definitely did. I'm slightly angry for the weeks I've had it in my library untouched because I feel like this could have legit helped with a mental break down a few weeks ago, but it's fine- I'M FINE. Anyway, let's talk about what everyone's really here for, the simple beauty that is Mandagon. Hold on, let me get out my notes *pushes up glasses*: * I'm slightly biased to this art style as it has always hit me right in the heart. The cool blues and greens matched with a 2D analysis of Tibetan architecture is absolutely stunning in my opinion. Along with the water effects, fluttering birds, and everything else, it really helps pull you into a calming play style. * The story is definitely very cryptic, and without looking it up I'm not 100% confident in my interpretation of it, but nonetheless I think it was effective. You find the story by discovering totem's in different places throughout the map and venturing into secret areas, but it's a bit like a poem that you're given random stanza's at random times, and I think that's exactly what the developer's were going for. * Is a platforming-walking-simulator a thing now? Because I like it. Like, a lot. I know we've had "walking simulators" for awhile, but I'd definitely associate this as one, simply because the only obstacles you have are the platforming. Other than that, it's pretty much open and challenge-free. * It's non-linear in a way where you can head any way you want, and still fully complete the game, and I definitely enjoy that aspect a lot. I'm a completionist when it comes to small, story driven games, and I believe Mandagon definitely helps the player out a bit in that department. I'll leave you off with a quote from the gaming studio; "We endeavor to make games with a taste of humanity."- and I think that's exactly what Mandagon is. I can't wait to see what's next! Until next time, guys!
