In 2015, the French studio Don't Nod set a new standard for interactive dramas with Life is Strange, an enthralling adventure that celebrated the beauty of everyday moments, the strength of unbreakable friendships, and the inexorable flow of time. Players were captivated by its meticulous attention to detail and the freedom to explore and influence the game's world. While Don't Nod ventured into different genres with subsequent projects, none managed to recapture the magic that had so enchanted fans.

Now, years later, Don't Nod returns to its storytelling roots with Lost Records, a game that transcends mere interactive cinema to become a heartfelt tribute to a bygone era and the joys of youth. With its evocative atmosphere, richly drawn characters, and impactful choices, Lost Records rekindles the passion that players have long yearned for.

Table of Contents

• Friends Reunite to Uncover Secrets from the Past After 27 Years
• Choices Still Impact Surroundings, Dialogues, and Relationships
• Bloom & Rage Creates Beautifully Imperfect Characters
• A Town Worth Dreaming About
• Slow-Paced Plot: The Defining Feature of the Story

Friends Reunite to Uncover Secrets from the Past After 27 Years

Image: ensigame.com

At the core of Lost Records lies the story of four women whose friendship dissolved 27 years ago. The protagonist, Swan Holloway, returns to her hometown of Velvet Bay for a reunion and discovers a mysterious package from their past. The narrative unfolds across two timelines: one in the vibrant summer of 1995 and the other in 2022, where the now middle-aged women meet with awkward smiles, avoiding the painful memories that tore them apart. The game cleverly shifts between third-person and first-person perspectives to highlight these contrasting experiences.

Most of the gameplay occurs in the past, allowing players to explore beautifully crafted environments, nurture relationships, and capture moments with a vintage HVS camera. Video recording is a central mechanic, echoing Life is Strange's Max, as Swan films everything from graffiti to wildlife and even paranormal phenomena. In a dedicated menu, players can edit their footage into thematic short films, which occasionally integrate into the storyline without altering its course.

Choices Still Impact Surroundings, Dialogues, and Relationships

Lost Records excels in its interactivity and attention to detail, hallmarks of Don't Nod's craftsmanship. For example, when Swan expresses a desire for ice cream from a nearby truck, players can choose to indulge her craving or continue with other tasks. Delaying too long might result in the truck closing, altering subsequent conversations. The game world is dynamic, with real-time dialogues that reflect the spontaneity of life—characters interrupt, change topics, and even offer silence as a meaningful choice. Building relationships is another layer of choice, where seeking universal approval isn't necessary, allowing Swan to grow from her initial shyness.

Bloom & Rage Creates Beautifully Imperfect Characters

Image: ensigame.com

Don't Nod has a unique talent for crafting characters that feel authentic. They are loud, sometimes clumsy in their youthful idealism, yet fundamentally sincere. Swan, an ordinary 16-year-old grappling with self-doubt and hiding behind her camera, evokes familiarity without feeling like a mere echo of Life is Strange's Max. Her friends—Ottem, Kate, and Nora—embody familiar archetypes but transcend them. Nora, the punk with colorful bangs and big dreams, surprisingly exhibits caution, while Kate, the passionate writer, encourages Swan to be bolder. In their company, players relive the feeling of teenage invincibility, regardless of their actual age.

A Town Worth Dreaming About

Nostalgia is woven into the fabric of Lost Records, most poignantly in Swan's room, a nostalgic treasure trove of '90s memorabilia. From bulky TVs and VHS tapes to Tamagotchis and troll dolls, every detail invites exploration and evokes a sense of loss for bygone times. Easter eggs abound, referencing iconic pop culture from Sabrina to The X-Files, Tank Girl, and The Goonies, alongside nods to video games like Oxenfree, Night in the Woods, and Control. The soundtrack, featuring dream-pop and indie-rock, perfectly complements the atmosphere, with tracks like "See You in Hell" and "The Wild Unknown" lingering long after the game ends. Velvet Bay emerges as a quintessential sleepy American town, charming by day and unsettling by night.

Slow-Paced Plot: The Defining Feature of the Story

Image: ensigame.com

The plot of Lost Records unfolds at a leisurely pace, prioritizing character development and the immersive experience of the '90s over immediate mystery-solving. This approach might not suit all players, but it sets the stage for a deeper connection with the characters and the world. The tension builds steadily, culminating in a gripping cliffhanger at the end of the first episode, or "reel," promising more excitement in the sequel. Lost Records is a filmic experience that understands its audience, delivering relatable characters, engaging interactions, and the potential for a compelling narrative. The true impact of Lost Records: Bloom & Rage will be revealed with the release of its second part on April 15th, and fans eagerly await the continuation of this enchanting journey.