Players Like...

❤ Astrological Readings and Client Interaction

As the player, you take on the role of Simon Forman, an unlicensed "doctor" of astrology, astronomy, and physick in 16th century London. The core gameplay loop involves you meeting with a variety of clients, known as "querents", and providing them with astrological readings to help solve their problems. During each client consultation, the game presents you with a series of options for astrological readings that Forman can use to diagnose and advise the client. These readings are based on the positions and movements of the stars and planets, which you must interpret to determine the best course of action for the client's issue. The choice of astrological reading is not always straightforward, as the game does not always make it clear which option will provide the most helpful or truthful advice. You must use your own judgment, as well as any information gleaned from the client's backstory and previous interactions, to decide which reading to select. This introduces an element of uncertainty and strategy, as you try to balance providing accurate advice with maintaining the client's satisfaction.

❤ Consequences and Branching Narratives

Your choices in the astrological readings can have a significant impact on the client's life and the overall narrative. Clients may return for multiple visits, and their reactions to Forman's advice can positively or negatively affect their opinion of him. Gaining enough positive letters of recommendation from satisfied clients is the key to Forman ultimately obtaining his medical license. The interconnected nature of the client's stories also means that your choices can have ripple effects, influencing the lives of other characters in the game. This creates a sense of player agency and encourages you to carefully consider the potential ramifications of each decision.

❤ Replayability and Exploration

While the experience is primarily linear, the game's branching narratives and multiple possible outcomes for each client's storyline provide a degree of replayability. Players who wish to explore alternative paths, see different consequences, or maximize their chances of obtaining the medical license can do so by making different choices during their consultations. Additionally, the game's historical setting and references to real-life figures and events from 16th century London add an educational element, encouraging players to learn more about the time period and the real-life Simon Forman through their playthrough.

❤ Presentation and Accessibility

The gameplay is presented in a unique, storybook-like format, with the action unfolding on a series of animated pop-up book pages. This visual style, combined with the game's excellent voice acting and Renaissance-era musical elements, help to immerse players in the world of Forman's practice. While the core gameplay loop of client consultations and astrological readings may seem repetitive to some players, the game's relatively short length (around 5-6 hours) and the variety of characters and narratives help to prevent the experience from becoming overly tedious.