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Projection: First Light tells the story of shadow puppetry’s history, a genre rarely explored in video games. Developed by Shadowplay Studios and published by Blowfish Studios, the game, initially revealed in 2017 and slated for a 2018 Q2 release, finally launched in 2019 alongside Apple Arcade. Does this unique premise translate into a compelling gameplay experience? Let’s delve into the light and shadows of Projection: First Light.

A Compelling Narrative Woven in Shadow

Projection: First Light follows Greta, a young girl who embarks on a journey of self-discovery after feeling overwhelmed by life’s pressures. Guided by a “spirit of light,” she traverses various cultures, encountering legendary heroes and learning valuable life lessons. The game’s world, inspired by the ancient shadow puppetry traditions of Southeast Asia, immerses players in a visually striking and culturally rich environment.

The developers have masterfully woven historical elements into the narrative, creating a captivating experience that keeps players engaged. Greta’s journey across diverse cultures adds depth and meaning to her personal growth, making for a truly memorable adventure.

A Hauntingly Beautiful Soundscape

The game’s soundtrack is another highlight, featuring traditional instruments used in shadow puppet performances. This artistic choice enhances the immersive experience, evoking a sense of wonder and mirroring the emotional journey of the protagonist. The music allows players to connect with Greta’s feelings, adding another layer of understanding to the narrative. This thoughtful approach to sound design elevates the overall gameplay experience.

Gameplay Mechanics: A Frustrating Shadow

Despite its strong narrative and captivating soundtrack, Projection: First Light falters in its gameplay mechanics. Players manipulate the spirit of light and environmental objects to create shadows, using these shadows as platforms to navigate the world. However, the level design often feels repetitive and unnecessarily convoluted. The lack of clear visual cues for traversable areas adds to the frustration.

The core gameplay loop of creating shadow platforms and traversing them lacks innovation and depth. While the narrative context provides some motivation, the gameplay itself feels disconnected and ultimately unsatisfying. The potential for creative puzzle-solving is largely untapped, leaving the player with a sense of unfulfilled promise.

Conclusion: A Light Dimmed by Shadows

Projection: First Light presents a compelling narrative and a beautifully crafted soundscape, offering a glimpse into the rich history of shadow puppetry. However, its flawed gameplay mechanics ultimately detract from the overall experience. While the game shines in its artistic presentation and storytelling, the cumbersome and repetitive gameplay prevents it from reaching its full potential. The game ultimately leaves the player with a sense of what could have been, a captivating journey hampered by its own shadow.

Game Information

• Developer: Shadowplay Studios
• Publisher: Blowfish Studios
• Genre: Adventure
• Release Date: September 19, 2019
• Platforms: Apple Arcade, PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

Minimum Requirements (iOS)

• OS: iOS 13 or later
• Device: iPhone SE / iPad Air 2 / iPod Touch 7th Gen or later

Test Environment

• OS: iOS 13.1 DB 4
• Device: iPhone 11 Pro