I can well and truly say that I’ve never played anything quite like Minute of Islands. It is wholly unique in both concept and design, with an uncomfortably eerie narrative set across extraordinarily detailed and horrifying environments. Its demo offers an insight into a game that will undoubtedly go down in history as one of the greatest indie games of all time.
“The islands available in the demo are vast, and hold various secrets for you to uncover. It was immensely intriguing to explore every nook and cranny”
Exploring Minute of Islands’ grotesquely vibrant islands is what makes up most of the core gameplay. It’s a good thing, too, as these exquisitely detailed locations as a truly magnificent sight to behold. From the monstrously horrific rotting carcass of a whale to the peaceful yet decrepit remains of a once glorious theme park, Minute of Islands contrasts its level design with a panache rarely found in games. No matter where you go, a deeply unsettling feeling lingers. But it is offset enough by the serene quality of the lavish and cartoony visuals that it never becomes overbearing or dangerously haunting.
Manoeuvring and clambering your way across the islands, encountering memories as you go, becomes an incredibly satisfying loop. The islands available in the demo are vast and hold various secrets for you to uncover. It was immensely intriguing to explore every nook and cranny, not only to get more of the beautifully voiced narration but to soak in the atmosphere and immerse myself deeper into this cryptically creepy world.
“Minute of Islands is truly something special.”
Underscoring all of this is an incredible soundtrack. It simultaneously manages to capture the essences of both the vibrant cartoony element of Minute of Islands’ atmosphere, as well as its more indelibly eerie aspects. This further cements the developer’s ability to succinctly contrast the two opposing themes. It is truly something to behold.
Minute of Islands minute to minute gameplay is incredibly polished and refined. Platforming feels easy, with ledges and platforms clearly defined, despite the often overly detailed environments. Puzzles are simple enough, encouraging exploration and narrative over complexity and infuriatingly obtuse puzzle design. It is surprisingly a joy to play Minute of Islands, regardless of its unsettling atmosphere.
Minute of Islands is truly something special. Its unique setting and visual style create a one-of-a-kind universe that is captivatingly tantalising. Studio Fizbin has crafted something truly remarkable here, something absolutely worth checking out. This has to be one of the best demo’s available at the LudoNarraCon event.
Be sure to head on over to Minute of Islands’ Steam store page to try the demo out for yourself. You can also wishlist it on Steam to be notified of any future updates.