Sometimes, you can go home again. It might be different then what you remember. Neversong, created by Atmos Games, is an action RPG in which a young boy must find out what has changed in his small town. A followup to one of my personal favorites, Pinstripe, this game is a treat to see and a very fun time to play.
Peet was in a coma as the game begins. Upon waking, he discovers that his girlfriend is missing. If you think this is just the typical go save the girl game, you are mistaken. It seems that Peet’s town has changed. The adults have become increasing violent. Strange creatures patrol to and forth. Peet’s friends have become strange. Peet must find out what happened while he was in his coma and what event placed him there.
As Peet, you must explore the town and fight off the enemies that try and stop you. Combat is fast as you beat your way through swarms. There are also puzzles you must solve in order to advance the story. The characters are well written and you start to see a pattern. Your friend’s say and do things that might be a representation of mental issues. One of my favorite parts is that everyday items can be used for special purposes. An umbrella allows you to slow your fall. This trait is reminiscent of NES games.
The soundtrack is amazing. The piano is used to great effect to set the mood of the area you are in. If Pinstripe was about guilt and forgiveness, Neversong seems to be how a person recovers from a traumatic event. Your body might have healed, but the world you return to might seem very different and scary. Peet’s determination shows that there is still a place in the world for him.
Neversong is not a long adventure, but you get a lot for your money. Thomas Brush has created a world that feels real and mythical at the same time. This game was a labor of love as it was a re-imagining of his old Flash game. The best comparison I can make is a Studio Ghibli film. The creatures and characters might be strange, but they feel real. It is a fairy tale, but in the old style. There are scary things living in the dark and Peet has to explore a world familiar yet twisted.
9/10
Available on PC