Alright. [i]Purpose 1951[/i] is done and dusted. This is the latest release by Tonguç Bodur, and a return to the more straightforward style of walking simulator he is well known for. I feel like each time I play one of Tonguç's games, I find myself thinking it's his best so far, and this is no different. Which is a testimony to his ability to continue refining and evolving his skills as a writer and developer.
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3230004639
In this game, the setting of the story is a bit different as the name suggests. You are a doctor in the post WWII era, who through circumstances beyond his control, is blacklisted from the community he lives in. The game follows his reflections on the medical community, his relationships, a splash of local politics, and the events that led him to this moment in time in his life.
The story format will be familiar. It begins somewhat wistful and contemplative, turns dark, but then closes out on a hopeful note. It was very well written. As a side note, I was a department director at two hospitals in real life for many years, and I have some of the same perspectives regarding the medical community and healthcare as are expressed in this game.
Gameplay is very straightforward walking simulator through some stunningly beautiful locales. Each chapter offers some new things to enjoy. And, as a first for Tonguç to my knowledge, there is even a city setting for one part of the game, which was cool. Each full chapter (other than the game ending itself) ends with a puzzle that upon solving, provides a story recap for the chapter.
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3230004887
I really thought the area transitions were cool as well. Starting in black and white, then changing to full color or sepia tones (depending on the area) once you have control of your character was a nice touch.
Something I noticed that I thought was interesting gameplay-wise. When you're moving downhill, you actually move faster. It's a minor detail, but I thought that attention to detail was really cool. Additionally, there was one part of the game where the controls started the section very stiff. Then I realized it's because you're actually not walking. You're riding a bike. Completely made sense.
The voice acting was comfortable and believable. Nice job there. Similarly, the soundtrack was perfect, and varied based on the moment in the game. Each track was highly reflective of the story at that time.
I played on the Steam Deck with zero tweaks required. The controls are all analog stick movement and FoV, so this comes as no surprise. I also experienced no bugs at all, although I note that the game would start to blur a bit with quick turning. However, it never quite did.
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3230005136
It took me right at an hour to complete this game, and I enjoyed every moment of it. If you're looking for a walking simulator with story depth and a fantastic soundtrack, you need look no further.
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