Penrose
- September 19, 2023
- doublespeak games
"A strange thrumming then, not in the air or ears. Sensed dully in a way that I'd never felt before..." Penrose is a non-linear narrative by doublespeak games. Scroll forwards and backwards through an ever-changing story. Manipulate the environment, explore every possibility, and unravel the mystery at the heart of everything...
Reviews
- The story is fascinating and unique, offering a captivating narrative experience.
- The game features good execution and music that enhances the overall atmosphere.
- The writing is described as captivating and poetic, drawing players in and encouraging multiple playthroughs.
- The sound design is mediocre, with instrumental compositions that become tiresome quickly.
- The writing suffers from inconsistency, with some sections being overly simplistic and others overly verbose.
- The plot can feel disjointed and esoteric, leaving many elements unexplained and hard to follow.
- story5 mentions
- 40 % positive mentions
- 60 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's story is intriguing and unique, featuring a "twisty" plot that requires effort to fully unpack. While it captivates with its clever mechanics and initial hook, some players find that it becomes increasingly esoteric and difficult to follow, particularly in the latter stages, leading to a sense of disintegration in the narrative. Overall, the story demands a deeper understanding rather than passive consumption to be fully appreciated.
“The story, though it takes a little work to unpack, is fascinating and the format is so unique!”
“A game best described as 'twisty.' It does, perhaps, get a bit esoteric and incomprehensible the further down you go, but I think it fits the general story quite well.”
“Because this story is too intelligent to be celebrated by someone who simply absorbs it, as opposed to understanding it.”
“The overall plot is okay, though hindered by the aforementioned lack of skill.”
“Because this story is too intelligent to be celebrated by someone who simply absorbs it, as opposed to understanding it.”
- music2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 100 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game is highly praised for its ability to transport players, creating an immersive and captivating experience.
“Love the music.”
“The music is transporting.”
- gameplay1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The gameplay features innovative mechanics and a compelling premise, but the experience is marred by a weak plot that falters in the latter stages of the game.