How to Say Goodbye

by Florian Veltman, Baptiste Portefaix, ARTE France

The Developer Says...

How to Say Goodbye is a beautiful narrative puzzle game inspired by picture books. Reorganize the environment and solve puzzles to help a group of ghosts on their quest to finally move on.

Players Like...

❤ Narrative and Thematic Elements

The game's narrative focuses on the journey of a recently deceased character trapped in a liminal space, guiding them to "the other side." Players appreciate how the story explores themes of grief and mourning in a thoughtful, compassionate manner, avoiding cliches or heavy-handed approaches.
The game draws inspiration from children's literature classics, incorporating elements of illustration and whimsical storytelling that complement the poignant themes. This blend of styles creates a unique, engaging experience.
Reviewers highlight the game's ability to tackle heavy subject matter with a light, positive tone, making it an emotionally impactful yet comforting journey for players.

❤ Puzzle Design and Mechanics

The grid-based puzzles, which involve reorganizing the environment to help the ghosts progress, are described as clever and satisfying. The puzzles gradually introduce new mechanics, providing a sense of progression and variety without becoming overly challenging.
The connection between the puzzle mechanics and the narrative, where players indirectly control the characters, is praised as an innovative design choice that enhances the overall experience.

❤ Overall Experience

Reviewers appreciate the game's relatively short length, which allows for a focused, self-contained experience that doesn't overstay its welcome. This pacing is seen as well-suited for players looking for a single-session, bittersweet journey.
Despite the game's simplicity, many players found it to be emotionally resonant, particularly for those dealing with themes of grief and loss. The game's ability to elicit thoughtful, empathetic responses is a standout quality.

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