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Have you ever lost yourself in a daydream, crafting fantastical worlds filled with dragons, fairies, and mythical adventures? For many, such vivid imaginings fade with age. But for young Isabelle, the allure of these dream worlds burns brightly. Lost Words: Beyond the Page beautifully captures this childlike wonder while exploring the complexities of grief and growing up. Join us as we delve into this unique narrative adventure.

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Stepping into a Child’s Imagination

The game masterfully portrays the boundless imagination of a 10-year-old. Unlike adults who strive for realism in their fantasy tales, children simply accept the fantastical as is. Their worlds shift seamlessly between joy, anger, sweetness, and sadness, unbound by structure or logic. Lost Words: Beyond the Page mirrors this fluidity, offering a poignant journey into Isabelle’s inner world as she crafts her own story within the game.

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We’re introduced to Isabelle, a curious and energetic child living a happy life with her family. Encouraged by her grandmother, she embarks on writing her “masterpiece,” dreaming of becoming a writer. Her story features a princess named Georgia (a name chosen by the player) from a faraway land, embarking on adventures in a magical world called Estoria.

A World of Wonder and Loss

Georgia, a young mage, must protect Estoria. When a dragon destroys her village, she sets out on a quest for revenge and restoration. Her adventures take her through vibrant and magical landscapes, from lava-filled mushroom kingdoms to a celestial spaceship belonging to her grandmother, encountering talking whales and mythical desert creatures along the way. Armed with powerful magic and aided by a trusty firefly companion, Georgia navigates these fantastical realms with childlike wonder.

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However, Isabelle’s personal story soon takes center stage. Tragedy strikes when her beloved grandmother suffers a stroke, casting a shadow over her world. This real-world grief bleeds into her fictional narrative, making Georgia’s adventures increasingly darker and more poignant. As Isabelle grapples with loss, her connection to her fantasy world begins to fray.

Growing Up and Letting Go

The game poignantly portrays the transition from childhood to adolescence. As Isabelle grows older, she revisits her story, continuing Georgia’s adventures as a tribute to her younger self. Time allows her to process her grief, but the pain remains. The game’s evocative soundtrack further amplifies these emotions, creating a powerful and immersive experience.

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Gameplay is straightforward, utilizing a classic point-and-click puzzle-solving mechanic. This simple approach allows the narrative and emotional core of the game to shine. However, the slow pace and narrative focus may not appeal to all players.

A Bittersweet Farewell

Lost Words: Beyond the Page is a unique and moving exploration of grief, imagination, and the transition to adulthood. While the slow pace and introspective narrative may not resonate with everyone, the game’s emotional depth and beautiful presentation make it a worthwhile experience. The open ending and the somewhat abrupt shift from young Isabelle to her older self could have been smoother, but it ultimately contributes to the game’s bittersweet poignancy.

Game Information

• Developer: Sketchbook Games, Fourth State
• Publisher: Modus Games
• Genre: Puzzle, Narrative Adventure
• Release Date: April 6, 2021
• Platform: PC

Minimum System Requirements

• OS: Windows 7 64-bit
• CPU: Intel Core 2 Duo or equivalent
• RAM: 2 GB
• HDD: 3 GB
• GPU: DirectX 11 compatible

Recommended System Requirements

• OS: Windows 10 64-bit
• CPU: Ryzen 5 1600
• RAM: 16 GB
• GPU: Nvidia 1050Ti
• HDD: 1 TB