One of the most satisfying games ever. Everything you do weaves into a task, usually the main plot. Doing a roll check and seeing all the plusses from previous things you did makes the moment feel like it was built up to. The dancing check might have been my favorite example. Some tasks even have multiple ways to complete them. This is my side quest heaven. The plot and the side tasks are paced out in a way that is manageable, and I loved watching my task list fill up and shrink to nothing towards the end. You'll be very surprised at the journey a superstition will lead you on. Since tasks can be done in different orders and not all of them are mandatory, it creates a unique playthrough. All of this while some of the best narration plays in your ears, yum. The way everything is written is equal parts pretentious and self-aware. They do not mind mixing in made-up words and info while using flowery language to describe what is happening. Since the narrator is equal parts omnipotent and conscious, you'll be hit with beautiful multiple-paragraph descriptions of your character taking in a scene, but also "Real men, real politics, real thoughts in your head!" This is a point-and-click game, so most of the fun comes from the dialogue. The voice performances are incredible. I believed everyone when they spoke, and they all had strong personalities in their performances. This makes sense when they explain the type of city Revachol, and it also allows for a wide range of distinct and fun voices. You'll love hearing from each character and look forward to speaking with them again. Since your partner Kim is with you the whole time, I am pleased to say he nails the stoic but human partner well. He really is a rock, and every time he shows emotion, you feel it. I think the political humor lands (it helps that they live in a fictional world with its own history), and I appreciate the freedom of response options. I chose the left wing options of course :). I think the amnesia subplot allows for more of that freedom and is really funny when you get to contrast your choices with reality. Internalizing thoughts was a fun alternative to a level-up and always had a satisfying conclusion. The music is mostly atmospheric but elevates what's happening in every scene. It really reflects how the character perceives the situation. The art style makes the world feel like a painting and creates really great character portraits. Egg Head's was my favorite. My biggest complaint is that, as cool as the clothes mechanic was, there weren't really any hints to dress a certain way, and I had a bug where I needed to equip consumables twice for me to be able to use them. Overall, this is a great game, and everything comes together in a way that just feels so satisfying. Worth the full price.
