Selfie : Sisters of the Amniotic Lens
- May 8, 2015
- Rail Slave Games
Get on Steam"Selfie: Sisters of the Amniotic Lens" is a non-game narrative experience set in 198X, where you confront the consequences of your past actions as the "Sisters of the Amniotic Lens." The game features a play-by-mail MMO/social network, advanced fly AI, and a music mix tape by award-winning artist Jarboe. It delves into quantum physics, metaphysics, and retro-future tech, immersing you in a dark, nightmare-like world.
PC
Windows
Reviews
- The game offers a unique interactive social experience that allows players to share and respond to personal messages, creating a sense of community and emotional connection.
- The atmosphere is described as thick, unsettling, and immersive, with a haunting soundtrack that enhances the overall experience.
- Many players find the concept intriguing and appreciate the opportunity for introspection and exploration of human emotions in a digital space.
- The gameplay is often criticized for being repetitive, boring, and lacking clear objectives, leading to frustration among players.
- Many users report technical issues, such as getting stuck on loading screens or not understanding how to progress in the game.
- The game is perceived by some as more of a social experiment than a traditional game, which can lead to disappointment for those expecting conventional gameplay.
- gameplay20 mentions
- 20 % positive mentions
- 60 % neutral mentions
- 20 % negative mentions
The gameplay in this title is generally criticized for being weak, repetitive, and often frustrating, with many reviewers noting that it does not significantly contribute to the story. While some appreciate the artistic elements and puzzles present, the overall consensus is that the game is not engaging enough to be considered a true gaming experience. Players are advised not to expect much in terms of gameplay mechanics, as it leans more towards an art piece than a traditional game.
“The framing story has an interesting concept and some cool symbolic stuff, and being an art game that isn't a walking simulator and manages to have not-terrible gameplay is a nice plus.”
“You wouldn't find a 'walkthrough' for this game; there's not much gameplay here, but whatever gameplay that does exist is actually rather frustrating, so make sure you reach that part I've just mentioned because that's what makes selfie so good!”
“Meanwhile, something only slightly more expensive, like Mind: Path of Thalamus, that has too much talking and terrible voice delivery, yet also having an impeccably beautiful world, crafted with, quite obviously, a big load of love and care, and some actual gameplay and puzzles in it, gets 'mixed' reviews.”
“Definitely not a game you play for the actual gameplay.”
“Terribly boring and repetitive gameplay, which does nothing to advance (or even relate) to the story.”
“Music isn't as good as other titles and the gameplay is pretty weak, but you certainly weren't playing this title expecting much of the latter.”
- story20 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 35 % neutral mentions
- 15 % negative mentions
The game's story features an intriguing and symbolic framing concept that deepens with reflection, creating a rich atmosphere. However, many players find the narrative ultimately overshadowed by repetitive gameplay that fails to engage or advance the plot, leading to a sense of monotony and disconnection from the story. While some appreciate the abstract elements and layered presentation, others feel let down by the lack of a coherent or compelling narrative.
“The longer you think about it, the richer the story and concept become.”
“Weird and trippy, but a good atmosphere and a pretty engaging story.”
“There are so many deep layers to the presentation, the music, the plot, and the world that you are inside.”
“Terribly boring and repetitive gameplay, which does nothing to advance (or even relate) to the story.”
“I guess I got this game expecting a story or plot, and it doesn't have that at all.”
“There's some (very) minor gameplay, and a rather abstract backstory which I didn't yet complete and didn't find myself too intrigued by.”
- music14 mentions
- 43 % positive mentions
- 36 % neutral mentions
- 21 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received mixed reviews, with some praising its fitting and haunting qualities that enhance the 80s aesthetic and emotional depth of the experience. However, others feel it falls short compared to other titles and express indifference towards its style. Overall, while the soundtrack is appreciated by many, it does not universally resonate with all players.
“The music by Jarobe is pretty nice and lends really well to the 80s aspect of the whole product.”
“A lovely thing with a lovely soundtrack and intriguing multiplayer aspect I'm thrilled to spend time exploring.”
“Music isn't as good as other titles and the gameplay is pretty weak, but you certainly weren't playing this title expecting much of the latter.”
“I thought the game was a bit pretentious and I didn't care for the music or style.”
“Even right now as I write this, the music that accompanies you in space in selfie is playing through my headphones, urging me to try and explain the emotions that it brings up in me as I drift through the empty loneliness of space.”
- atmosphere8 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 38 % neutral mentions
- 38 % negative mentions
The game's atmosphere is described as weird, trippy, and thick, creating a blend of unsettling yet engaging experiences. Reviewers appreciate its ability to evoke disturbing feelings while also being amusing and soothing, contributing to an overall captivating narrative.
“Weird and trippy but a good atmosphere and a pretty engaging story.”
“The atmosphere is thick, unsettling, amusing, and soothing.”
“I love the very disturbing atmosphere this game conveys.”
“The atmosphere might put you in a bad place.”
- graphics6 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game are described as unremarkable, with some reviewers noting that it lacks impressive visual execution and engaging gameplay. However, the aesthetic choices and the willingness of the developers to tackle complex themes are appreciated, even if the overall presentation may not resonate with everyone.
“Rail Slave's aesthetic choices and vague narrative aren't always my thing personally, but I love the risks the dev takes and their willingness to honestly engage with topics I want to see so much more of in games and to do so with that rare combination of brains and heart.”
“Disturbing story frames a graphic-based social network.”
“Rail slave's aesthetic choices and vague narrative aren't always my thing personally, but I love the risks the dev takes and their willingness to honestly engage with topics I want to see so much more of in games and to do so with that rare combination of brains and heart.”
- emotional2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The emotional aspect of the game is highlighted by its focus on anonymous self-expression, allowing players to share their inner thoughts without the pressure of seeking validation or popularity. This leads to genuine and meaningful interactions, fostering a deeper emotional connection among participants.
“Instead of trying to represent yourself visually, entertain others, and boost your ego by gaining their likes, in selfies you reveal your inner thoughts anonymously without any ambition to gain popularity - and receive deep, honest reactions that have real emotional value.”
- monetization2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The monetization aspect of the game features amusing 8-bit TV advertisements that add a humorous touch to the overall experience.
- humor2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's humor is described as a complex blend of deeply disturbing and thought-provoking elements, combining moments of genuine laughter with sadness and creepiness, creating a unique and profound experience.
“This game is deeply disturbing, thought-provoking, funny, sad, profound, and pretty damn creepy.”
