Game: My Memory of Us
System: Nintendo Switch
Publisher/Developer: Juggler Games / Crunching Koalas
Price: €14,99| $14.99|£13.49
Age Rating: EU 7+| USA 10+
Release Date: 24th January 2019
Also Available On: Steam, Xbox one, PS4
Review code kindly provided by Crunching Koalas
All of us are liable to take a trip down memory lane now and then. Such mental excursions are usually triggered by sights, conversations, dreams, and keepsakes etc. In My Memory of Us, the trigger is a unique red book which takes an old man back to occupied war-torn Poland.
Unique Story Telling
My Memory of Us’ story, though based on history, uses a lot of symbolic imagery. In this case, a past infamous regime is replaced with Robots, while regime flags and banners bare skulls, and a historically persecuted people are identified as red folk. Even though I’m no historian, its context and imagery are instantly recognisable.
A part of me is intrigued by the games symbolism! Robots are a brilliant choice to represent an inhumane ideology, while the mistreatment of the game’s persecuted people has left its mark. I think the issues at the game’s heart provide valuable lessons for the modern day, especially as racism and discrimination continue to fester within today’s society. The game has also led me to research topics raised within it which have helped to increase my knowledge and understanding further.
My Memory of Us is a compelling game, with an emotive story, and excellent narration from none other than Sir Patrick Stewart, aka Captain Picard.
The Real Stars of the Show
I was initially drawn to the game by its art style and the talents of Patrick Stewart, but things have changed somewhat. The real stars of My Memory of Us are its two young protagonists. At the game’s beginning, you’re introduced to a young boy and girl, who after becoming friends, develop a bond that not even war can separate. It’s heartwarming how dedicated both children are to each other. Neither occupation, stigmatisation, segregation or threat can separate them. In a generation where friendships are often confused with simple acquaintances, My Memory of Us is a powerful reminder of what true friendship looks like.
Other notable characters may only have a small role, but their parts are powerful and memorable.
Gameplay
The storyline plays out through a variety of story-based stages. Gameplay elements include basic running, jumping, stealth, rhythm, and puzzle solving elements which are fun in themselves. Even if at times they feel a little basic. Both protagonists have different skill sets. The girl can run, jump over small gaps, and fire a slingshot. The young boy can sneak, crawl through pipes, and use a mirror to reflect light into other’s eyes. By working together, they’re able to overcome numerous traps, dangers and play their part in the war effort.
Even though the game can be rushed, I’ve spent more than 10 hours with it. As well as seeking to complete the story, I’ve enjoyed searching for collectibles, and reading the profiles of historical characters in the memories section.
One of my favourite sections from My Memory of Us. #NintendoSwitch pic.twitter.com/sCw1yr7gFt
— Jonah (@weloveninty) March 9, 2019
Visuals and Sound
The game’s black and white war-torn presentation looks great. The soundtrack is also equally pleasing and is available to purchase via the Steam store. It’s also striking how they use red throughout the game. I would love to know why the developers chose this particular art style. The closest thing I can compare it to are the emotive scenes in Schindler’s List featuring the girl with the red coat. The attention to detail is terrific and helps to make the game’s storytelling even more powerful.
Overall
My Memory of Us features a powerful story which will stay with me for a long time. I highly recommend it to all that enjoy great storytelling, as well as enjoyable but sometimes basic gameplay. It’s a game with great heart, and its developers deserve tremendous credit for taking a real historical event and presenting it in such an intelligent and thoughtful way.
