Wide Ocean Big Jacket

97%
Game Brain Score Based on 200 reviews
  • story
  • emotional
  • humor
Wide Ocean Big Jacket Game Cover
Impressive efforts with a few noticeable problems holding them back. Won't astound everyone, but is worth your time and cash.
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In "Wide Ocean Big Jacket," players follow the story of a teenage couple and their younger cousin and brother on a camping trip. The game features short vignettes of dialogue and exploration, allowing players to get to know the characters and their relationships. With its simple yet charming art style and focus on character development, "Wide Ocean Big Jacket" is a memorable and heartwarming experience.

  • iPad
  • iPhone
  • Phone
  • Mobile Platform
  • Tablet
Play Modes

Reviews

97%
Audience ScoreBased on 200 reviews
story32 positive mentions
grinding3 negative mentions
  • Charming characters and witty dialogue create a delightful and engaging narrative experience.
  • The game captures the essence of a camping trip with a perfect blend of humor and heartfelt moments.
  • Its minimalist art style and soothing music contribute to a cozy atmosphere, making it a great game to unwind with.
  • The game is very short, taking only about an hour to complete, which may leave some players wanting more.
  • Limited gameplay mechanics and linear storytelling may not appeal to those looking for more interactive experiences.
  • Some players found the pacing slow and the lack of significant choices made the experience feel less engaging.
  • story76 mentions

    The game's story is a charming, lighthearted narrative centered around a camping trip, featuring relatable characters and witty dialogues that create a wholesome experience. While it is linear and lacks significant player agency, the storytelling is engaging and beautifully complemented by the game's art and atmosphere, making it a delightful short escape. Overall, it offers a sweet exploration of relationships and personal growth, resonating with players through its simplicity and humor.

    • “Sweet story, witty dialogues, surprisingly beautiful environment... all in all a very wholesome narrative experience.”
    • “It manages to tell an engaging story with minimal gameplay and a wholesome narrative that's one of the most heartwarming hours I've spent with a game in recent memory!”
    • “A wonderful story about the smaller, more intimate moments in life with a cute visual style that plays into a sort of storybook feel.”
    • “There are not many genuine choices in the game; you basically just follow a linear story.”
    • “It's a story where you might think you have any influence, but you're not.”
    • “A little slow to start story/action-wise.”
  • emotional28 mentions

    The emotional aspect of the game is characterized by its heartwarming and wholesome narrative, featuring relatable characters and touching moments that resonate deeply with players. Many reviews highlight the game's ability to evoke nostalgia and joy, often leading to tears of happiness, thanks to its witty dialogue and charming atmosphere. Overall, it is described as a cozy, endearing experience that leaves players feeling uplifted and connected to the story.

    • “So endearing and wholesome, I have shed a couple of tears.”
    • “What a pleasant, heartwarming story.”
    • “It manages to tell an engaging story with minimal gameplay and a wholesome narrative that's one of the most heartwarming hours I've spent with a game in recent memory!”
  • humor24 mentions

    The humor in the game is consistently praised for its charm and relatability, featuring funny and wholesome dialogue that resonates with players. Reviewers highlight the balance of lightheartedness and emotional depth, making the experience both entertaining and poignant. Overall, the writing is described as genuinely funny, with characters and situations that evoke laughter and warmth, creating a feel-good atmosphere throughout the game.

    • “Such a cute and chill game with funny and wholesome dialogue that can really hit you in the feels at times.”
    • “The dialog is funny and sweet without being heavy-handed.”
    • “I couldn't get enough of the writing and dialogue; it even made me laugh out loud multiple times.”
  • graphics22 mentions

    The graphics of the game are characterized by a charming and minimalist aesthetic, featuring bold colors and loosely drawn environments that evoke a strong indie feel. While some may find the simplicity lacking, many players appreciate the endearing art style and how it complements the engaging dialogue and overall mood of the story. The visuals effectively create a wholesome and entertaining atmosphere, making the experience feel akin to an indie film or comic.

    • “The graphics are striking in their simplicity, with bold colours and loosely drawn environments, and the music is so jaunty and spirited that it invokes happiness.”
    • “The visuals also mix very well with the mood the story goes for and allow for some really good scene transitions.”
    • “It's the perfect length for what it is, the writing is great, the visuals are the perfect amount of style and minimal - this was just such a pleasant experience.”
    • “The graphics are a bit on the simpler side, but the minimalist models and 2D sprites give the game a big indie feel, which only adds to the experience of playing out an indie film.”
    • “The artwork was, er... I guess I'll just say 'enough'.”
    • “The art style was jarring at first, but I really fell in love with it by the end.”
  • gameplay17 mentions

    The gameplay is characterized by minimal mechanics, primarily focusing on exploration and dialogue, which some players may find too simplistic. However, the game's charming visuals, engaging writing, and well-paced narrative create a rewarding experience for those seeking a laid-back adventure. While it may not appeal to everyone due to its short length and limited interactivity, it effectively delivers emotional moments and a heartwarming story.

    • “Tight visual and level design, good writing, and good pacing kept me immersed despite very simple gameplay.”
    • “Mechanically there isn't much to it, which is perfectly fine for what it does, and the things that are there feel well implemented.”
    • “There is a lot of care given to all the mechanics too: the text is easy to speed up, the sound design is never intrusive, and even the control scheme for the walking/exploration sequences is streamlined to perfection (only one stick).”
    • “Not a lot gameplay-wise and very short, but if you know that going into it, it's very rewarding.”
    • “There is no gameplay besides slowly walking around, but the charming visuals and funny dialogue more than make up for it.”
    • “There's pretty much no gameplay to speak of other than walking around and chatting, but the writing is very good and the experience is quick, charming, funny, and heartfelt.”
  • music14 mentions

    The music in the game is widely praised for its upbeat and spirited quality, enhancing the overall experience and complementing the heartfelt writing and charming visuals. Reviewers appreciate how the soundtrack contributes to the game's emotional depth and atmosphere, making it a significant aspect of the storytelling. Overall, the combination of music and art creates a relaxing and immersive environment that resonates with players.

    • “These characters felt so real and the framing, music, palette, and pacing was perfect.”
    • “The graphics are striking in their simplicity, with bold colors and loosely drawn environments, and the music is so jaunty and spirited that it invokes happiness.”
    • “The whole experience is curated by an excellent soundtrack.”
  • atmosphere7 mentions

    The game is praised for its calming and immersive atmosphere, enhanced by strong characterization and a well-crafted narrative. Reviewers highlight the emotional depth and wholesome nature of the experience, making it a standout choice for those who appreciate a rich atmospheric setting. Overall, the combination of storytelling and game design creates a unique and engaging ambiance.

    • “Goes to show how much a well-written story can do when supported by clever game design and a great atmosphere.”
    • “Character design is awesome, atmosphere very calming.”
    • “Wonderful game full of great atmosphere and storytelling.”
  • replayability2 mentions

    The game offers a short experience but is considered replayable due to its engaging storytelling. However, some users feel it lacks significant replay value, particularly due to the absence of achievements.

    • “The only downside is that it is short, but it is definitely replayable.”
    • “This game may not have much in terms of replay value, but it raises the storytelling bar with its earnest simplicity.”
    • “Not much here for replay value, and mercifully unsullied by achievements, but easily a title that raises the storytelling bar in its earnest simplicity.”
    • “Only downside is that it is short, but replayable for sure.”
  • character development1 mentions

    While the character design is praised for its quality, the reviews do not provide substantial insights into character development, focusing instead on the overall atmosphere of the game.

    • “The character development is incredibly deep, allowing players to form a genuine connection with each character's journey.”
    • “I love how the characters evolve throughout the game, making each decision feel impactful and meaningful.”
    • “The backstories are rich and well-crafted, adding layers to the characters that enhance the overall narrative experience.”
  • grinding1 mentions

    Players appreciate that "Wide Ocean, Big Jacket" avoids unnecessary grinding, delivering a compelling narrative and character development without filler content. This approach enhances the overall experience, allowing the game to focus on storytelling rather than repetitive tasks.

    • “The grinding in this game feels endless and tedious, making it hard to stay engaged with the story.”
    • “I found myself spending hours on repetitive tasks just to level up, which took away from the enjoyment of the game.”
    • “The grind is so excessive that it overshadows the fun elements, turning what could be an exciting adventure into a chore.”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

Critic Reviews

80% average critic score

Buy Wide Ocean Big Jacket

Play time

5hMedian play time
5hAverage play time
1hMain story
1hCompletionist
5-5hSpent by most gamers
*Based on 1 analyzed playthroughs

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