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Surreal adventure games are nothing new. These odd experiences are open to interpretation and can be wild and whacky. Occasionally, though, they are touching, memorable, and heartfelt. This is exactly what Voyage hopes to impart to its players. Subsequently, it is a very strange title that is confusing, unusual, but oh so beautiful.
Developed by Venturous and published by Ratalaika Games, this is a cinematic puzzle adventure title. It focuses on a collaborative approach, as such, it can be enjoyed solo or cooperatively. I tried both methods and loved each one. Therefore, if you are a lone gamer, you’ll have just as much fun as when you team up with another.
Voyage: a short but mesmerising journey.
Normally, I frown whenever the gameplay is too short. This is especially true when I adore what I’m playing. Voyage is over far too quickly and this was disappointing. Set across 8 absurd and bizarre chapters, you and your friend must work together to progress. The core concept revolves around basic puzzles, climbing, pushing and pulling items, and activating switches. Consequently, many of the problems are easy to solve and much of the action is linear. This wasn’t a problem though, as the simplicity allowed me to focus on my crazy surroundings.
The story of Voyage centres around two survivors and their journey to get home. As they explore each level, they are haunted by apparitions of past encounters. These memories give them clues as to how to proceed, but the solutions are still shrouded in mystery. As you progress, you explore some zany and weird locations. By the end, the adventure comes full circle, and the truth is revealed. Without spoiling it for you, the conclusion will tug at your heartstrings. As such, it is a beautifully dramatic story told at a relaxing pace.
No violence or words are needed.
Many will say that violence is a key part of any video game. However, I don’t believe it is always necessary. In fact, in Voyage, it wouldn’t be relevant, nor would it be suitable. Accordingly, a combat-free experience is on the cards. During your short time with it, there are no elements of danger. Instead, you enjoy the straightforward puzzles and incredibly detailed landscapes. Whether it’s a dusty desert, gargantuan spaceship, or haunting wasteland, they never fail to impress.
Alongside this, there is no dialogue. You’ll see no text, hear no words, and yet, it’s still an emotional masterpiece. The simple aesthetics and gentle pace are captivating. What’s more, the strange and often shrouded nature of the story holds your attention throughout.
Voyage looks and sounds incredible.
Indie titles have gone from strength to strength, and Voyage is a prime example. Thanks to its stunning looks and amazing audio, you are in for a cinematic treat. Its rich colour palette and wonderful hand-painted landscapes are eye-catching. I cherished the varied and intelligent stage design, but wish they were bigger and more complex. Though much of the action was linear, it lacked repetition, and this kept things fresh.
The audio beautifully complemented each chapter. The varied soundtrack created an eerie and haunting soundscape. Consequently, you quickly become immersed in this strange alien world. With no dialogue, it could have lacked energy or emotion. However, this wasn’t the case! The excellent composition injects pace when needed, and highlights loss and frailty perfectly. I adored every second of this cinematic treat and this is where it truly excels.
A simple game = simple controls.
The opening chapter doubles up as a basic tutorial. This was nice, but it wasn’t entirely necessary. Why? Because the controls are so simple, they are mastered immediately. Furthermore, the responsive inputs and stripped-back UI support it further still. If you play this cooperatively, the controls are even easier. However, solo gamers needn’t worry, as the fundamentals are a cinch to understand.
Where Voyage is lacking is both longevity and replay value. In under an hour, you’ll have completed it and discovered every secret. Subsequently, this was disappointing, as I wanted so much more. Sadly, there is no room for an alternative ending, nor could a New Game + mode be implemented. Luckily, though, the first and only playthrough is so good that it’s worthy of your time.
Voyage is breathtaking.
A game rarely gets most things right. Normally, there are plenty of shortcomings that can be improved. Voyage, however, is simply breathtaking and is, therefore, a stunning indie game. Consequently, I loved it and I recommend you to buy it here! Can you work together to solve the mystery and get home?
