Summary
- Release Year: 2013
- Genres: Adventure, Indie, Simulator, Strategy
- Platforms: Linux, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: Orthogonal Games
The Novelist (2013): A Thought-Provoking Exploration of Dreams and Sacrifices
The Novelist is a narrative-driven game that asks one central question: can you achieve your dreams without pushing away the people you love? Developed by Kent Hudson and published by Telltale Games, the game follows the story of Dan Kaplan, a novelist struggling to write the most important book of his career while trying to be the best husband and father he can be.
The game is played from a first-person perspective, and the player controls Dan as he goes about his daily life. The player must make choices that affect Dan’s relationships with his wife, children, and friends, as well as his progress on his novel. The game features multiple endings, depending on the choices the player makes.
The Novelist is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant game that explores the complex themes of dreams, sacrifices, and the nature of success. The game’s characters are well-developed and relatable, and the player is sure to feel invested in their lives and struggles.
Gameplay
The Novelist is a point-and-click adventure game with a strong focus on narrative and character development. The player controls Dan as he explores his home, office, and other locations, interacting with objects and characters. The player must make choices that affect Dan’s relationships with his family and friends, as well as his progress on his novel.
The game features a unique “thought cloud” system, which allows the player to see what Dan is thinking and feeling at any given moment. This system provides insight into Dan’s inner thoughts and motivations, and helps the player to make more informed choices.
Themes
The Novelist explores a number of complex themes, including:
- Dreams and sacrifices: Dan is a talented writer with a dream of writing a great novel. However, he must balance his dream with his responsibilities to his family. The game explores the sacrifices that people make in order to achieve their dreams, and the impact that these sacrifices can have on their relationships.
- The nature of success: What does it mean to be successful? Is it about achieving fame and fortune, or is it about living a fulfilling life? The Novelist explores the different ways that people define success, and the challenges that they face in achieving their goals.
- The importance of family and relationships: Dan loves his wife and children, but his dedication to his writing often takes him away from them. The game explores the importance of family and relationships, and the need to find a balance between work and personal life.
Characters
The Novelist features a cast of well-developed and relatable characters. The player is sure to feel invested in their lives and struggles.
- Dan Kaplan: Dan is a talented writer with a dream of writing a great novel. However, he must balance his dream with his responsibilities to his family. Dan is a complex and flawed character, but he is also deeply passionate about his writing and his family.
- Sarah Kaplan: Sarah is Dan’s wife. She is a loving and supportive partner, but she also worries about Dan’s obsession with his writing. Sarah is a strong and independent woman, and she is not afraid to speak her mind.
- Lily Kaplan: Lily is Dan and Sarah’s daughter. She is a bright and curious child, but she also misses her father when he is away working on his novel. Lily is a reminder of the importance of family and relationships.
- Ben Kaplan: Ben is Dan and Sarah’s son. He is a playful and energetic child, but he also has a sensitive side. Ben is a reminder of the joy that children can bring to our lives.
Critical Reception
The Novelist received critical acclaim upon its release. The game was praised for its strong narrative, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes. The game was also nominated for several awards, including the Game Developers Choice Award for Best Narrative.
Conclusion
The Novelist is a beautiful and emotionally resonant game that explores the complex themes of dreams, sacrifices, and the nature of success. The game’s characters are well-developed and relatable, and the player is sure to feel invested in their lives and struggles. The Novelist is a must-play for fans of narrative-driven games and anyone who is interested in exploring the human condition.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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