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Music enhances video games, but Swedish indie studio Simogo took this a step further, building their game, Sayonara Wild Hearts, around an entire pop album. Music is integral to the experience, not just background noise.

Many games use music effectively, like Cuphead‘s jazz, Red Dead Redemption 2‘s country, or Monument Valley‘s dreamy soundtrack. However, Sayonara Wild Hearts distinguishes itself by weaving its gameplay around a pop album, creating a unique experience that transcends the traditional rhythm game genre. It blends action, fantasy, racing, and even shooting elements into a vibrant, musical journey. Let’s explore what makes this game so captivating.

A Harmonious Blend of Story and Gameplay

When a young woman’s heart breaks, the cosmic balance is disrupted. A diamond butterfly appears in her dreams, guiding her through celestial pathways to discover her alter ego: The Fool. As The Fool, you traverse dimensions, collecting the scattered melodies of the universe hidden within the hearts of Little Death and her allies, including the Dancing Devils, Howling Moons, Stereo Lovers, and Hermit 64.

alt text: Sayonara Wild Hearts gameplay featuring The Fool riding a motorcycle through a neon cityscape.

Sayonara Wild Hearts isn’t just a pop music album brought to life; it’s a genre-bending experience. Each level offers unique gameplay, from high-octane motorcycle chases to navigating 8-bit landscapes and soaring through fantastical obstacles.

alt text: Sayonara Wild Hearts screenshot showing 8-bit inspired gameplay.

Many levels combine these elements, challenging you to simultaneously ride, shoot, rhythm-match, and navigate obstacles. This dynamic gameplay evokes a range of emotions, from exhilaration and surprise to captivation and enchantment. Through these varied levels, the game tells a compelling story of The Fool’s journey to restore cosmic harmony, reflecting the diverse “melodies” we discover in our own lives.

This game flawlessly blends action, fantasy, racing, and more.

Sayonara Wild Hearts‘ varied stages create a dynamic and engaging experience. The player is constantly challenged and entertained by the ever-shifting gameplay. This keeps the experience fresh and exciting, further drawing the player into The Fool’s journey.

alt text: Sayonara Wild Hearts showcasing dreamlike visuals and The Fool on a longboard.

A Unique Visual Style

Annapurna Interactive, known for publishing narrative-driven games with distinct art styles like What Remains of Edith Finch and Journey, continues this tradition with Sayonara Wild Hearts.

The game’s visuals are both nostalgic and modern, employing vibrant colors like pink, blue, and purple. This striking aesthetic immediately captures the player’s attention, creating a memorable experience.

The visuals are captivating and make it hard to look away.

The initial experience might feel surreal, but it quickly becomes enjoyable and comfortable. The design is visually satisfying, evoking both nostalgia and a sense of modern artistry. This unique visual style, paired with the incredible soundtrack, elevates the gameplay to new heights. It’s truly hard to look away once you’re immersed in Sayonara Wild Hearts‘ world.

alt text: Sayonara Wild Hearts featuring The Fool in a visually striking, dream-like sequence.

A Soundtrack That Drives the Experience

Built around a pop album, Sayonara Wild Hearts offers a unique and satisfying auditory experience. The music transitions seamlessly from slow, atmospheric tracks to energetic beats and back to softer melodies. This mirrors The Fool’s journey of self-discovery and growth.

The soundtrack perfectly reflects the emotions the game aims to evoke.

Simogo masterfully conveys emotion through sound, perfectly complementing the visuals and gameplay to create a modern work of art. The soundtrack is more than just background music; it’s the heart and soul of the game, driving the narrative and emotional resonance.

Conclusion

Sayonara Wild Hearts isn’t just a game; it’s a sensory experience. The fusion of music, visuals, and gameplay creates a captivating journey unlike any other. It’s a testament to the power of music in interactive media, pushing the boundaries of traditional game design. If you’re looking for a unique and emotionally resonant experience, Sayonara Wild Hearts is a must-play.