To Be With You

About

"To Be With You" is a semi-autobiographical visual novel that follows Alsie's journey to save her struggling relationship with James. The game, which contains mature themes such as emotional abuse and mental illness, has multiple endings and includes a Director's Commentary. It is roughly an hour long and was commissioned for PlayNYC. Please approach with caution as the game contains content warnings for emotional abuse, gaslighting, mental illness, and divorce.

Genres & Tags

Play Modes

Single-Player Play through the game's story or campaign solo

95%

Audience ScoreBased on 42 reviews

emotional18 positive mentions

story3 negative mentions

The game offers a raw and sincere exploration of toxic relationships, providing valuable insights into emotional abuse and gaslighting.
The writing quality is excellent, making the story both impactful and relatable for those who have experienced similar situations.
The inclusion of a 'Director's Commentary' enhances the experience by explaining the manipulation tactics used by the abusive character, adding depth to the narrative.

The game can be emotionally challenging and may trigger painful memories for those who have experienced abuse.
Some players felt that the game did not meet their expectations and is better suited for a one-time read rather than repeated playthroughs.
The resources for victims of abuse are locked and should be readily available from the start to provide immediate support.

emotional
18 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The game is described as a deeply emotional and semi-autobiographical experience that explores themes of emotional abuse, gaslighting, and mental illness, resonating strongly with players who have faced similar situations. Many reviewers noted that it elicited strong emotional reactions, including tears, while also serving as an educational tool about the complexities of abusive relationships. However, potential players are cautioned about the triggering nature of its content, making it more suitable for those who feel emotionally stable enough to engage with such heavy themes.
- “I cried so much playing this.”
- “It deals with emotional abuse, gaslighting, mental illness, and divorce, so it's definitely not a light-hearted experience.”
- “If you have been emotionally abused, please beware of getting triggered; the depictions of abuse, gaslighting, and manipulation are extremely accurate.”
story
10 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
10%
60%
30%
The game's story is praised for its well-written, semi-autobiographical narrative that effectively explores themes of toxic relationships, allowing players to reflect on their own experiences. Reviewers highlight its educational value and emotional resonance, making it a compelling and essential play.
- “I saw so much of my past self in this story.”
- “Or if you have experienced similar situations before, as the story/your choices in the game unfold, it teaches you how to recognize when you are in a toxic relationship.”
- “This is certainly a must play, for both its lessons and for its story.”
- “The developer did a great job showing this in this semi-autobiographical story.”
graphics
6 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The graphics of the game are praised for effectively conveying the emotional depth of the semi-autobiographical narrative, enhancing the player's connection to the protagonist's struggles. The visual style complements the storytelling, making the experience more immersive and impactful.