A point-and-click adventure with innovative detective mechanics. Help Ollie, a fledgling reporter on his first day at the Signal & Echo newspaper, to solve the mystery behind a schoolgirl's disappearance. Developed by an ex-journalist.
The game's standout feature is its innovative text parser system, which allows players to enter any proper noun they have encountered, including character names, locations, and inventory items. This enables a more natural, conversational approach to interacting with the game world and progressing the investigation. For example, players can ask NPCs about specific people or places, or search the newspaper's computer archive using relevant keywords. Reviewers praised this system for its flexibility, as it encourages players to take notes and think critically about the information they gather.
At the core of the gameplay, players take on the role of Ollie, a rookie reporter investigating the disappearance of a schoolgirl named Iris Wood. To uncover the truth, players must use their detective skills to gather clues, interview witnesses, and piece together the mystery. The game features a logical, real-world approach to problem-solving, where solutions are based on rational deduction rather than arbitrary "moon logic." For example, one reviewer described how they had to cross-reference details about Iris' daily routine and her classmates' alibis to identify a potential suspect.
The game's narrative, informed by the developer's background in journalism, is widely praised for its depth and engagement. Players often commented on how the well-developed characters and the compelling story of Iris' disappearance made them feel invested in the outcome. The game's pixel art visuals and retro aesthetics contribute to a strong sense of atmosphere and setting, further enhancing the overall immersive experience.
In addition to the investigative mechanics, the game also features a variety of puzzles that players must solve to progress the story. These puzzles are described as challenging yet rewarding, requiring players to apply logical thinking and make connections between the information they have gathered. One reviewer highlighted how solving a complex puzzle involving newspaper archives and codebreaking provided a genuine sense of satisfaction.
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