PGC NEWS

FRACTER, the intriguing puzzle game from independent developer 4L Games, has finally arrived on PC after its initial unveiling in August 2019. Originally released on mobile devices to positive acclaim, the PC version promises an equally immersive experience. Born from the vision of Oscar-nominated filmmaker Sanatan Suryavanshi (The Breadwinner), FRACTER offers a mature and darkly captivating digital world, crafted in collaboration with 4L Games. This review delves into the shadowy depths of FRACTER, exploring its unique gameplay mechanics, atmospheric presentation, and thought-provoking narrative.

FRACTER

Light as Your Guide

Players take on the role of a young heroine on a quest to dispel an oppressive darkness. Light becomes your sole companion and guiding force throughout this enigmatic journey. FRACTER’s visuals are striking in their simplicity, employing a stark palette of black, gray, and white. This minimalist approach, combined with an eerie and atmospheric soundscape, creates a constant sense of mystery and suspense. Each step forward is a question mark. Are you on the right path? Have you collected enough lost fragments of light? What dangers lurk in the shadows ahead?

The pervasive darkness obscures the environment, demanding careful observation and strategic movement. While paths to light offer a sense of progress, they often conceal treacherous traps. This constant interplay of light and shadow keeps players engaged and on edge.

FRACTER

FRACTER

Challenging Puzzles in a World of Shadows

As a puzzle game at its core, FRACTER presents a series of increasingly complex challenges behind every gate. Some levels are expansive yet straightforward, while others are deceptively compact and intricate. Early puzzles involve manipulating light blocks to activate light-collecting pillars. As you progress, new mechanics are introduced, including mirrors, movable blocks, and constructible pathways. The objective isn’t simply to solve puzzles; it’s also to collect scattered fragments of light and navigate the labyrinthine environment.

Adding to the complexity are the shadows themselves, your constant adversaries. They stalk you relentlessly, threatening to engulf you if you’re not careful. Lacking any offensive weapons, your only defense is the light. A well-placed beam of light can banish these shadowy figures, while strategically positioned light sources can create barriers, offering temporary respite.

FRACTER

Unraveling the Meaning of the Journey

As you delve deeper into FRACTER, you begin to question the underlying meaning of your quest. Is it a metaphor for the human journey, a struggle to piece together fragmented selves? Is it a commentary on the constant battle between good and evil, where darkness threatens to consume even the brightest light?

While the game’s dark and light motif lends itself to rich storytelling, the narrative remains somewhat obscured, focusing primarily on the puzzle and action elements. This leaves the player to interpret the symbolism and draw their own conclusions about the deeper meaning of the game.

FRACTER

Conclusion

FRACTER is a captivating puzzle game that successfully blends atmospheric presentation with challenging gameplay. Its unique use of light and shadow creates a world of constant suspense and intrigue. While the narrative could be more explicit, the game’s symbolic nature encourages player interpretation and reflection. With its engaging puzzles, haunting atmosphere, and thought-provoking themes, FRACTER offers a truly immersive and memorable experience.

System Requirements (PC)

Minimum:

• OS: Windows 7 SP1 64-bit
• CPU: Intel Core i3-530 or AMD Phenom II X2 550
• RAM: 2 GB
• VGA: GeForce GT 130, Radeon HD 3850, Intel UHD Graphics 620 or AMD R7 (A12-9800)
• HDD: 400 MB

Recommended:

• OS: Windows 10 Pro 64-bit
• CPU: Intel Core i5-8257U @ 3.9GHz
• RAM: 8 GB
• VGA: Intel Iris Plus Graphics 645
• SSD: Apple SSD AP0128M 128GB