The definition of a game is fairly broad so not all games are alike. Some games will be more appealing than others while some are very niche with a specific goal in mind. There are developers out there who try to push the envelope of what a game should be and Indonesian developer Mojiken is just such a developer. Their previous games, Coffee Talk and A Raven Monologue were anything but standard, and their newest game, When the Past Was Around, continues this trend. When the Past Was Around is a whimsical point-and-click puzzle game about love, loss, and letting go.

I know I’ve said this before about other games, but When The Past Was Around is not going to be for everyone. This is a very slow-paced game that will most likely appeal to casual players and those who love a good story. This is not an action game or an adventure game. Instead, much of the game consists of exploring the beautifully crafted world, uncovering puzzles, and finding ways to solve those puzzles.

Speaking of which, much of the world is crafted like a hand-drawn storybook. In fact, each bit of the world could in itself be a piece of artwork hung up on your wall. They’re very well done and the way that much of it is brought to life is very, very good. When The Past Was Around is a very beautiful game.

Not only that, but the audio in the game is really good too, mainly the soundtrack. I found myself humming them to myself even after I had long turned the game off.

Back to the gameplay, When The Past Was Around plays like an old school point-and-click game. Puzzles can range in difficulty, but nothing in the game is really that hard. That’s not to say you don’t interact with the game, because you do. It keeps you engaged in the story, but it doesn’t punish you, which is great. This is a game that wants to keep the story moving along.

With that said, the game isn’t very long, but it is an enjoyable experience. It’s a very calming game with a very emotional story. Like I said above, it’s not going to be for everyone, but it’s a wonderful game that’s very well done with outstanding music and artwork. The gameplay is solid and will appeal to casual gamers and more than likely you’ll play this because of the art and story.

When The Past Was Around is available now on the Nintendo eShop.

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Received game from developer and/or publisher for coverage purposes.
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