Spiritfarer

On the 19th of April 2024 my wife of 17+ years was on her deathbed at only 37 years old. She was dying of cancer and there was nothing to be done about it. She told me to play this game when I would be ready, because it would help me. She was gone less than 12 hours later. More than 2 years later, I finally play the game and the first spirit I take to the everdoor has me bawling my eyes out. Last night I finally find out what the game is about and I feel like I have to process it before I can continue further, almost finished. This is why she wanted me to play it, she knew Miss her every day still <3

This game is both pretty good and pretty boring at the same time. I can't really get into too many details without spoiling the story, but let me put it this way: I spent about 24 hours on this game, which is quite a lot for a small scale title like this. The first 5 hours, I was quite impressed. There were interesting characters, the art style is excellent, and progression was pretty good. The last 5 hours, I truly enjoyed the way the story was going and was genuinely touched by the narrative. It's just that the 15 hours between the start and finish are a slog to get through. If you stick with it, like I did, it does pay off, but it just dragged on and on right in the middle, there. I think that, if the developers had cut five of the less interesting characters, made the mini games, resource gathering, and animations less dreadfully slow, it would have shaved about 10 hours off and made the experience a lot more streamlined and entertaining. If, unlike me, you have plenty of time to kill, you may find this game absolutely amazing. After I finished the game, I asked myself the question: "Did I have fun?" And I did, despite the pacing issues. So, I'd still recommend this game, but only if you have the time it asks of you.

If you want a review on gameplay mechanics or other technical crap, pass this review by, because while this game is truly enjoyable in every aspect, that is not what mattered to me nor what I wish to celebrate about it. This game... is so much more than a game. Its reflection, sadness, joy, and pure catharsis rolled into a beautiful and melodious experience. I have faced my own demons and sorrow about someone who was extremely close to me while helping other souls find solace in death. While I will forever have sadness when I think of her, it has helped me find peace in the thought that maybe she is looking at me with love and forgiveness. If you want just a cozy game, there is a multitude of titles you can choose for that, but if you want that and you want to face emotions that may not be the most comfortable, but chances are you will endure, absolutely play this game. It has helped shape my perspective and feelings towards life and death and with that has earned a special place in my heart.