Summary
- Release Year: 2015
- Genres: Indie, Platform, Puzzle
- Platforms: Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: Atrax Game
- Publishers: Mastertronic
Sym (2015): A Haunting Exploration of Social Anxiety Disorder
Sym is a puzzle-platformer that explores the complexities of social anxiety disorder (SAD). Players take on the role of Josh, a teenage boy who struggles to reconcile his fears with the reality of his world. The game’s unique visual style and haunting atmosphere create a powerful and moving experience that sheds light on the often misunderstood condition of SAD.
A World Divided
Sym’s world is divided into two contrasting realms: the “real” world and the “safe” world. The real world is a dark and unforgiving place, filled with towering walls, graffiti, and strange symbols. It represents Josh’s fears and anxieties, the things that keep him from living a normal life.
The safe world, on the other hand, is a bright and colorful place, filled with lush gardens, friendly animals, and cheerful music. It represents Josh’s逃避, the place where he goes to feel safe and secure.
Josh must navigate between these two worlds, solving puzzles and overcoming obstacles in order to progress. The puzzles are often challenging, but they are also fair and rewarding. Each puzzle represents a different aspect of Josh’s anxiety, and solving them helps him to face his fears and grow as a person.
A Haunting Atmosphere
Sym’s atmosphere is as haunting as it is beautiful. The game’s visuals are dark and muted, with a heavy emphasis on shadows and negative space. This creates a sense of unease and claustrophobia that perfectly captures the feeling of social anxiety.
The game’s sound design is also excellent, with a haunting soundtrack that perfectly complements the visuals. The music is often sparse and atmospheric, but it swells to a crescendo during moments of tension and anxiety.
A Powerful Message
Sym is not just a puzzle-platformer; it’s also a powerful and moving story about social anxiety disorder. The game does not shy away from the realities of SAD, but it also offers a message of hope and recovery.
Through Josh’s journey, players learn that it is possible to overcome social anxiety. It takes time and effort, but it is possible to live a full and happy life with SAD.
Critical Reception
Sym received critical acclaim upon its release, with many reviewers praising the game’s unique visual style, haunting atmosphere, and powerful message. The game was nominated for several awards, including the IGF Award for Excellence in Visual Art.
Conclusion
Sym is a powerful and moving exploration of social anxiety disorder. The game’s unique visual style, haunting atmosphere, and powerful message create an experience that is both unforgettable and enlightening. Sym is a must-play for anyone who has ever struggled with anxiety, or for anyone who wants to learn more about this often misunderstood condition.
Additional Information
- Developer: DrinkBox Studios
- Publisher: PlayStation Mobile, Inc.
- Release Date: October 27, 2015
- Platforms: PlayStation Vita, PlayStation 4, Windows, Mac, Linux
- Genre: Puzzle-platformer
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
