REVIEW: Forgotten Fields

Although some might think I am sycophantic, writing can be very challenging. It doesn't matter what media you use to write, sometimes it is difficult to get your thoughts down on paper. Or worse, you can't think of what you want. It's usually just procrastination that causes me to have this problem most of the time. Forgotten Fields places us in the shoes a fiction writer named Sid, who is struggling to put together a synopsis for his book. Forgotten Fields was developed by Armaan Sandhu, a Goa-based Frostwood Interactive, and published by Mumbai-based Dino Digital.

Let's start with the story. After his recent success, Sid is now a fiction author and seeking funding to fund his next book. Sid is unable to create a story without using cliches or derivatives. A friend informs Sid that his mother is hosting a dinner party in celebration of her departure from Sid's home. Sid is initially apprehensive and soon he sets off on his return journey, stopping at various points along the way to draw inspiration from his friends, family, and surroundings for his book. These stories often reflect his struggle to accept his age and move on from childhood and adolescent comforts.

Perhaps it was my current circumstances, but I felt like Sid was on the same journey and could relate to his feelings. The story brought me a lot of emotion, something that is rare in video game stories. Sid can sometimes be a bit obtuse or self-inflicting with his own worries. But I felt the same way and understood him. Each character was likeable and distinctive, even though they were only a few minutes with me. Many of them reminded of people in my social circle, which further enhanced the narrative resonance. I found the game hilarious at times, with Sid's and his friends' sometimes dry humor making me smile, especially the story about Ajay's confession of love to his current girlfriend. It was both heartwarming and enjoyable to watch the combination of the touching story of growing up with the lighthearted comedy.

This story might resonate with people in their 20s. My current circumstances may have influenced my view of the story. However, I believe the story is very well-written. Frostwood skillfully navigated these trials without making it seem forced or in a "How can you help fellow millennials?" way. These concepts are used by Sid to create the story for his new book. Sid visits his childhood home which he describes as a place that is separate from time. This is a place you can escape from your troubles and then re-enter your life exactly where you left it.

Although the gameplay is simple, there are some great mechanics. The gameplay is not just a tool to tell the story. Sid can be controlled from an elevated camera angle, and the direction of Sid's movements will depend on where he is located in the area. You can sometimes get lost behind terrain or get stuck on assets. However, I found it to be very minimal. My focus was primarily at Ethan's house, which is the first place you go after you take off on your moped. The movement is very smooth. Sid has easy access to an inventory system that allows him to store the items he needs to move forward. Sid must first maintain his moped before he can go. There are many ways to accomplish a task. Some with hilarious results, such as when you have to get rid of some laundry or one of your sheets is stuck on a cow nearby. The swimming portion of the game takes place on the beach. It doesn't work well. It is difficult to keep Sid's head up above the water so that you can see where you are and find your way back to shore. Although he won't drown it is still frustrating to try and find your way back.

The game's graphics are quite impressive. Frostwood may have chosen the camera angle as a stylistic choice. The minimalist, cell-shaded art style, especially the character models, is very appealing from afar. Although these models are fine from the normal perspective, they can seem a bit lifeless and static up close. This is especially evident in first person flashbacks with Sid and his friends talking back and forth in a car that allows you to see the models close up. To make the characters feel more alive, I believe they would benefit from idle animations. Sometimes, characters break their necks talking to people lower than them. They don't move their bodies to address them but just look down. The game's terrain is stunning at times. The game is set in India and has a warm feel with its choice of lighting and colour palette.

It is also very enjoyable to listen to the soundtrack. MicAmic composed the music and did an excellent job fitting the theme and feel of the game. It is also a very good sound design. Frostwood is aiming for a warm and inviting atmosphere with some of their effects, such as the tea-making and cooking sounds.

Forgotten Fields I love this charming and warm game. It's a heart-warming, inspiring story that is emotional and warm. The characters are well-rounded and the writing is funny. Although the graphics are minimalist and stylized, they are quite appealing. However, some improvements to the character models and idle animations would be greatly appreciated. While the gameplay is fun, there are some quirks that make it enjoyable. There are some issues with navigation, such as getting stuck on terrain. These problems can be easily overlooked. Frostwood's first album, Rainswept, is something I am considering buying as I loved Forgotten Fields. It's nice to support an independent creator with a passion for emotionally-driven themes and well-written narratives.