Luna
After the murder of George Floyd at the hands of police, the good folk at itch.io created the “Bundle for Racial Justice and Equality” in support of the Black Lives Matter Movement. 1,741 items from 1,391 creators were included in this bundle. This column not only serves to highlight those games, projects and other items from these generous creators, but is also a reminder that Black Lives do, and always will, Matter.
The selfish, dishonourable, racist fascist, who ruled over America from 2017 - 2020, may have been voted out, but this is only the first of many, many steps to come toward true justice. The fight does not stop until we can stand by each other, shoulder to shoulder, truly and honestly, equal.
If you have the means and/or time, you can find ways to help at https://blacklivesmatters.carrd.co/.
Luna - $14.99
In a word, Luna is beautiful. From its art and animation to its music and sound at play, this game is positively captivating. It feels from the jump that industry vets are behind this. *Checks notes, sees team is made up people who worked on Journey, Flower, Boom Blox, The Sims 2* yup, that is absolutely correct.
The game plays out over a handful of levels with two main parts. The first consists of a few constellation puzzles, the second a diorama for planting a few reeds, trees, bushes and the like. All the while a narrator spins a tale about reuniting the fragments of the moon. It’s all very metaphorical, and very lovely.
The score from the famed Austin Wintory is absolutely divine. There’s an element of creating musical sound through your play, and is steeped in that signature pure emotional resonance.
This itch bundle contains experiences ranging from the small and personal to the fully kitted out indie studio. Luna sure is one of those with a bit of a budget and pedigree behind it, and it shows. A true gem, definitely give this one an hour of your time.