In Between [Game Review]

Game: In Between Genre: Story-driven Puzzle Developer: Gentlymad

Publisher: Headup Games Copy supplied by publisher

In Between is a story-driven 2D puzzle game developed by Gentlymad and published by Headup Games.

STORY You play as a man who, after having been diagnosed with cancer, goes through the five stages of grief. Each stage consists of 10 levels, and in some of them you find MindImages that represent the thoughts and memories of the main character. The subject matter is handled very respectfully and in an honest way, so much so that I wouldn't be suprised if it was based on the live of someone that the team knew. The writing is mature and serious, without being overly dramatic and cheesy.

GRAPHICS The game is entirely handcrafted, and it looks beautiful. The only real problem is that the look of the levels is very similar, however the MindImages bring some needed colour to the game. And it also serves as a way to tell the story, which is something really commendable.

GAMEPLAY The main gameplay mechanic is that, using the arrow keys, you can change the levels gravity so that you can move on all four walls. This affects some objects like crates, and makes for some interesting situations. However, in each stage of grief there is a different theme that affects the gameplay: for example, in Denial there is a wall of shadow that is trying to get you, but you can stop it only if you look at it. This is just an example of variety that makes every stage feel fresh, in a similar way to the different chapters of Braid.

CHALLENGE The game is very challenging, but never frustrating. Every time you unlock a stage, you gain access to all the levels except the final, which unlocks after that you have beaten 7 levels prior, so that in case you are having an hard time beating a level, you don't have to look for walkthroughs or stop playing because you are frustrated. This makes the experience more enjoyable and accessible.

SOUND The quiet soundtrack to the game is very good, but not all that memorable. However, the voice actor for the main character does a brilliant job, making the character relateable. The subtle changes in tone as the game progresses also show the range that he has.

REPLAYABILITY You will probably come back to try and beat all the levels and get all the MindImages and Steam achievements. Otherwise, you won't probably come back to this game.

Overall, this is the best indie puzzle platformer since Braid. Yes, it's that good. The story is emotional, the gameplay is varied, the levels are challenging and the voice acting is perfect. I love this game very much, and I can't wait to share it with more friends.

Story: 9 Graphics: 8 Gameplay: 9 Challenge: 9 Sound: 8.5 Replayability: 8