I’ve been a gamer for most of my life and within those years one genre has eluded my time; The Adventure Game. You would think growing up in the second boom of gaming popularity, I would have at least ventured into Maniac Mansion but sadly this never happened. While I had access to most consoles soon after release, my interests were always someplace else, and sadly I feel as though I missed out on some great experiences. Current gen consoles and PC have been a digital home to many independent games, that would possibly be overlooked if released onto a retail shelf. Having said experiences listed on a digital storefront ensures that even the smallest title gets exposure. The best part of gaming (and life as it were) is, it’s never too late to try new things.
Developed by MidBoss, 2064: Read Only Memories Integral takes place in futuristic Neo-San Francisco, where technology has given rise to human augmentation including but not limited to cybernetics and DNA modification. With the population relying on technology for work and play, there are some that don’t wish to see humans become too dependent on tech, for fear that humans may forget how to function. You take on the role of a would be journalist, entangled in the mysterious disappearance of an engineer, who may have changed the course of human history. Aided by a Relationship Organizational Manager (or ROM) you must uncover the whereabouts of the missing engineer, and what connection lies between his abduction and the activist group of anti-human enhancement protesters, known as The Human Revolution.
Taking inspiration from the likes of Ghost in the Shell, The Matrix and even Blade Runner, 2064’s strength is in the story weaved through your choices. The game never let’s you feel lost in it the environment set by the lore, and with every character having a voice actor insures the weight of the narrative is never empty. It’s presentation is welcoming and familiar and the music reflects the mood set by the visuals. While being new to the genre, 2064 feels intuitive though a few control issues are evidence that this was originally a PC game. I really can’t recommend this game enough, for being the first adventure game I’ve had the pleasure of playing and reviewing; I can see myself revisiting 2064 with repeat plays, just to make different choices. 2064 is a game that should not be missed by anyone who is a fan of cyberpunk storytelling or adventure games.
