Rest Day Ruminations: Amnesia

But I can remember a lot

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I like to play computer games when they tell a good story. Here’s a recommendation.

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Amnesia: A Machine For Pigs

I recently finished replaying Amnesia: A Machine For Pigs. I had played it once before, in December 2014, and am impressed that the game had just as much impact a decade later. I wanted to write about it now as it is only £1.69 (90% off) for the next two days.

Here’s a trailer:

Frictional Games are one of my favourite game developers, and have been ever since I played a pre-release demo for their first game. Since then I have played every game they released, and enjoyed all of them. There is a certain fingerprint to their games, and it involves forgotten pasts, immersion in a gradually worsening situation, captivating stories, and an element of tactility.

Here’s an example of the latter: I once entered a candlelit room in the previous game, Amnesia: The Dark Descent, and heard a noise from somewhere outside. Dragging footsteps, getting closer. Quickly, I dragged chairs and put them in front of the door. Something battered on the door but then slowly shuffled away. When it seemed safe I took my eyes from the door and examined the desk. I could open every drawer, and look through them. Books. A note that might be useful. Some oil for my lantern. And, disturbingly, some teeth. But all-too-soon I had to leave. I moved the chairs and listened at the door. Only the sound of the winter wind. I couldn’t put it off any longer, and opened the door …