PGC NEWS

Edith Finch returns to her family’s eccentric home to unravel the mysterious history surrounding its inhabitants. What Remains of Edith Finch is a narrative-driven adventure game developed by Giant Sparrow, the creators of The Unfinished Swan. This 2017 title offers a unique and compelling storytelling experience, exploring themes of family, loss, and the weight of legacy.

What Remains of Edith Finch – Exploring the Finch House

A Masterclass in Storytelling

What Remains of Edith Finch distinguishes itself through its innovative approach to narrative. Players experience the story through Edith’s eyes, piecing together the past through exploration and interaction. While first-person narratives are common, Edith Finch elevates the genre. Instead of relying on subtitles, thoughts and dialogue are seamlessly integrated into the environment, appearing on objects and surfaces. This subtle yet effective technique draws players deeper into the narrative, urging them to uncover every detail. The slow pace allows for thoughtful exploration and gradual understanding of the Finch family’s tragic fate.

What Remains of Edith Finch – Unraveling Family Secrets

Giant Sparrow masterfully weaves environmental storytelling with varied perspectives. Each family member’s story is presented with a unique style, like Barbara’s tale unfolding within the vibrant panels of a comic book. This variety keeps the gameplay fresh and engaging despite the simple mechanics. Beyond the narrative, the level design itself contributes significantly to the experience. Objects are arranged with seemingly effortless detail, enriching the story and revealing hidden connections between characters.

The game’s atmosphere is one of its greatest strengths. A pervasive sense of mystery and unease permeates every moment. While there are no direct threats or antagonists, the feeling of an unseen presence looms large, adding to the emotional weight of the narrative. The focus remains firmly on exploration and uncovering the story, making it accessible even to those unfamiliar with gaming.

Compelling Characters, Brief Encounters

Edith’s journey revolves around understanding the lives and fates of her relatives. Each character is brought to life through the clues she discovers within the Finch house. Despite the short duration of each vignette, the characters are remarkably well-developed, each with distinct personalities and motivations. From the childlike wonder of Molly to the tragic tale of Gregory, each story resonates with emotional depth.

What Remains of Edith Finch – The Tragic Tale of the Finch Family

Giant Sparrow’s ability to create such memorable characters in such short segments is a testament to their storytelling prowess. Each entry in Edith’s journal leaves a lasting impression, a feat rarely achieved in other games. Even Edith’s own story remains a compelling mystery until the final moments, tying the entire narrative together in a satisfying conclusion.

Room for Improvement: Controls and Replay Value

While the simplified controls make the game accessible, they can also feel cumbersome at times. Automated actions, like opening doors or climbing stairs, occasionally interfere with the desired interaction, leading to frustrating moments.

What Remains of Edith Finch – A Haunting Atmosphere

The relatively short playtime of around two hours might leave some wanting more. While the concise narrative avoids unnecessary padding, the lack of substantial post-game content limits replayability. A chapter select allows revisiting specific moments, but it doesn’t fully address the desire for more engagement after the credits roll.

What Remains of Edith Finch – Exploring the Family History

Conclusion: A Must-Play Narrative Experience

Despite its minor shortcomings, What Remains of Edith Finch is a powerful and moving experience. Its innovative storytelling, memorable characters, and haunting atmosphere make it a must-play for anyone seeking a narrative-driven adventure. While the short playtime and control issues detract slightly, the overall impact of the story and its emotional resonance far outweigh these flaws. If you’re looking for a game that will stay with you long after you finish playing, look no further than What Remains of Edith Finch.