Remnants
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.
While the fight for racial equality and justice was news story #1 for only a few weeks, the movement did not stop when the coverage moved away. Protests march on, human rights violation occur daily, and justice continues to not be served. We must never stop fighting for what is right.
If you have the means and/or time, you can find ways to help at https://blacklivesmatters.carrd.co/.
Remnants - Free (PWYW)
It’s hard to go past Remnants and not be struck by the incredible detail of June Flower’s artwork. Every room of this game is distinctive and evocative, with intricate detail found on even the smallest of pieces, while a rainbow of colour abounds across every room you enter.
Remnants for me is very much a Mood, one that feels comforting to just soak in. The synth beats accompanying your decent provide an extra edge to the already striking visual style. Sounds and sights here blend together to create a distinctive feeling few games possess.
Being a simple walk around and explore type game, you won’t find any combat or puzzles blocking your way here. Just spend up to an hour wandering through the caverns, taking in the scenery and writing around you, and enjoy the loose story threads drawing you ever deeper.
I’m not going to pretend I understand all the nuances behind the design of Remnants, but even so, it touched me on an emotional level. June Flower’s art is excellent as still screenshots, but wandering through the surrealist environments only elevates the experience.
Remnants is free for all, but a dollar or two in donation goes a long way toward June Flowers future projects - of which I already can’t wait to check out.