Summary

• Release Year: 2015
• Genres: Adventure, Indie, Visual Novel
• Platforms: Linux, Mac, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita, Xbox One
• Developers: [bracket]games
• Publishers: Digerati Distribution

Three Fourths Home: A Journey of Identity, Family, and the Ties That Bind

In the heart of America’s heartland, where the vast expanse of the Midwest stretches out before you like an endless sea of rustling cornstalks, lies a story of family, obligation, and the complexities of growing up. Three Fourths Home, a visual short story released in 2015, invites players to embark on a poignant and deeply personal journey through the rural Nebraska landscape.

As Kelly, a young woman in her mid-20s, players navigate a stormy drive through the countryside, engaging in an extended phone conversation with her parents and younger brother. Through this intimate dialogue, Three Fourths Home delves into the characters’ lives, exploring the challenges of disability, the weight of familial expectations, and the bittersweet transition into adulthood.

A Visual Symphony of Rural America

Three Fourths Home’s visual aesthetic is as striking as its narrative. The game’s stylized representation of rural Nebraska captures the essence of the region’s vastness and isolation. As Kelly drives through the storm, the landscape transforms into a surreal and dreamlike realm, reflecting the emotional turmoil she experiences during the conversation with her family.

The game’s art style is both beautiful and evocative, with a minimalist color palette and simple, yet effective character designs. The muted tones and washed-out colors convey a sense of nostalgia and longing, perfectly complementing the game’s themes of memory and the passage of time.

A Poignant Exploration of Family Dynamics

At the core of Three Fourths Home lies a deeply moving exploration of family relationships. Through Kelly’s conversations with her family members, players witness the complex dynamics at play within this close-knit group.

Kelly’s parents, well-meaning but struggling to understand their daughter’s choices, represent the traditional values and expectations of rural life. Her younger brother, full of youthful exuberance and naivety, provides a contrast to Kelly’s more introspective nature.

As the conversation unfolds, players are given a glimpse into the unspoken tensions and unspoken bonds that connect these family members. Kelly’s decision to move back home after college has created a rift, as she grapples with her own aspirations and her sense of obligation to her family.

Disability, Adulthood, and the Search for Identity

Woven into the narrative of Three Fourths Home is a sensitive portrayal of disability. Kelly’s younger brother has cerebral palsy, and the game explores the challenges and triumphs he faces as he navigates life in a small town.

Through Kelly’s interactions with her brother, players gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of disability and the importance of acceptance and inclusion. The game also touches on the challenges of growing up and finding one’s place in the world, as Kelly struggles to reconcile her own desires with the expectations of her family and community.

A Masterful Blend of Narrative and Gameplay

Three Fourths Home is a masterclass in interactive storytelling. The game seamlessly integrates narrative and gameplay, allowing players to actively participate in the unfolding story. The phone conversation with Kelly’s family is the primary driving force of the game, and players’ choices during the dialogue have a subtle but significant impact on the narrative’s progression.

The game’s minimalist design and intuitive controls ensure that the focus remains on the emotional journey of the characters. Players are given the space to immerse themselves in the story and connect with the characters on a deeply personal level.

A Lasting Impact

Three Fourths Home is a game that stays with you long after you finish playing. Its poignant exploration of family dynamics, disability, and the challenges of growing up resonates deeply with players. The game’s beautiful visuals, evocative soundtrack, and thought-provoking narrative combine to create an unforgettable experience that challenges players to reflect on their own lives and relationships.

Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or new to the world of interactive storytelling, Three Fourths Home is a must-play experience. It is a game that will touch your heart, challenge your perspectives, and stay with you long after the credits roll.

Review Score

9/10

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