If On A Winter's Night, Four Travelers
- September 21, 2021
- Laura Hunt
Get on Steam
Get on itch.io StoreIn "If on a Winter's Night, Four Travelers" , players explore a masked ball on a train in the 1920s through the perspectives of four distinct characters. Carlo, in Rome, awaits his lover Patrick amidst rising fascism; Lady Winterbourne, grieving her husband's death, is plagued by fortune hunters; and Dr. Jordan Samuels dabbles in the occult to overcome his tormentors. Each character's story is filled with tension and dark themes, creating a rich, narrative-driven point-and-click adventure.
Reviews
- Beautifully crafted interactive story with exquisite pixel art and poetic storytelling.
- The game offers a deeply emotional experience with compelling characters and relatable conflicts.
- It's hard to believe this game is free; many players recommend purchasing the supporter pack to support the developers.
- The game may not be suitable for players who are feeling very unhappy due to its poignant and sometimes sad themes.
- Some players found the ending to be a bit silly, which detracted from their overall enjoyment.
- The game is short, taking about two hours to complete, which may leave some players wanting more.
- story13 mentions
- 62 % positive mentions
- 38 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's story is praised for its beautifully crafted narrative, exploring deep themes such as dementia with a haunting and poetic approach. Players appreciate the focus on storytelling over traditional puzzles, enhanced by stunning pixel art and atmospheric sound design, creating a moving and immersive experience. Overall, the narrative is described as both poignant and relatable, making it a standout aspect of the game.
“Beautifully crafted interactive story.”
“A beautiful and haunting story.”
“An allegoric, sad and moving story, that together with the superb pixel art, makes the experience completely worth it.”
“The third story felt a bit disconnected, but by that time, it didn't bother me.”
“With a traditional point-and-click design, it moves away from puzzles (except for very light ones) to focus on the story it is telling.”
“Their problems felt very real, common, and tangible to me, unlike in a horror story where usually the problem comes from a supernatural or unbelievable source.”
- music8 mentions
- 63 % positive mentions
- 38 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received high praise for its captivating and atmospheric qualities, with many players expressing a desire to purchase the soundtrack. While some tracks may be freely available, the blend of classic and original compositions enhances the emotional depth of the gameplay, contributing significantly to the overall experience. The combination of music, sound design, and narrative creates a memorable adventure that resonates with players.
“Finally, I was blown away by the soundtrack.”
“It's true that I tend to like extremely uncool music, but to me, this was the first time I really wanted to buy a game's soundtrack.”
“A pixelated delight where atmospheric settings, captivating music, and brilliant writing make up an absolute gem of the adventure genre.”
“I'm guessing, however, that most if not all of the music used in this game must be freely available.”
“On its surface, if on a winter's night... is a mysterious and moody point-and-click adventure game, but at its heart lies an intense emotional experience, conveyed by mood, music and narrative.”
- atmosphere4 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The atmosphere in [i]if on a winter's night[/i] is highly praised for its pixelated visuals, captivating music, and immersive sound design, creating a rich and engaging experience. Reviewers highlight the game's ability to evoke a spooky ambiance while delivering a compelling story and well-crafted characters, making it a standout in the adventure genre. Overall, the atmosphere is described as a key element that enhances the gameplay for those who appreciate depth and mood.
“A pixelated delight where atmospheric settings, captivating music, and brilliant writing make up an absolute gem of the adventure genre.”
“[i]If on a Winter's Night[/i] is for patient gamers who like to soak up great atmosphere and story.”
“It is helped along by atmospheric sound design and a mix of well-placed classic and original music, as well as the non-obvious story and a few light puzzles.”
- graphics2 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's pixelized aesthetic enhances the overall experience, allowing players to envision characters vividly. Reviewers praise the beautiful visuals and seamless gameplay, highlighting the impressive artistic execution.
“The pixelized aesthetic added a lot to the game; it makes it easier to imagine each character the way you'd envision them.”
“Beautiful visuals, astounding gameplay, perfectly written.”
- emotional2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game effectively evokes deep emotional connections through relatable character conflicts and a rich narrative, enhanced by its atmospheric mood and music. While it presents a mysterious and moody exterior, the core experience is profoundly emotional, resonating with players on a personal level.
“Each of the characters (including Laylah, the fourth 'traveller,' the one who's asking about the stories instead of telling her own) have emotional conflicts I can relate to.”
“On its surface, If on a Winter's Night... is a mysterious and moody point-and-click adventure game, but at its heart lies an intense emotional experience, conveyed by mood, music, and narrative.”
- gameplay1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The gameplay is praised for its stunning visuals and exceptional design, complemented by well-crafted writing that enhances the overall experience.
“Beautiful visuals, astounding gameplay, perfectly written.”
