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Writer's pictureNathan Walters

Painting a Picture of Nostalgia: An In-depth Dordogne Review


Image: Un Je Ne Sais Quoi and UMANIMATION


Hello fellow gaming aficionados! Today, we're journeying into the idyllic French countryside with Dordogne, a beautiful and contemplative game from Un Je Ne Sais Quoi and UMANIMATION. Filled with nostalgic reminiscences and the wonders of childhood, Dordogne presents an enchanting take on the narrative adventure genre. So, without further ado, let's delve into this Dordogne review .


 

Gameplay (8/10)


Dordogne stands out as a point-and-click adventure game where puzzles and exploration form the gameplay's core. The mechanics are straightforward and easy to grasp, placing more emphasis on the narrative than complex gameplay. You'll navigate through beautifully illustrated landscapes, solve a variety of puzzles, and complete tasks reminiscent of childhood adventures.

The puzzles, while generally quite intuitive, can sometimes lack the clarity needed to solve them without trial and error. Despite this, they are cleverly integrated into the story and are rarely frustrating.


 

Visuals and Sound (9/10)


Dordogne is visually stunning. The game is brought to life through a gorgeous watercolor aesthetic, an absolute delight that truly stands out among other titles. Each scene looks like a beautiful painting, with vivid colors and expressive details that evoke a profound sense of nostalgia.

The game's soundscape is equally impressive. The background music, a soothing and gentle score, beautifully complements the game's pastoral setting. The voice acting is solid and adds depth to the characters, although there are moments when it feels slightly less impactful.


 

Story and Characters (8/10)


The narrative is where Dordogne's heart lies. It's a tender, moving exploration of childhood memories and the process of growing up. You play as Mimi, a woman who revisits her childhood memories through the letters her grandmother left behind.

The game beautifully captures the dichotomy of childlike wonder and adult reflection, presenting an emotive narrative that will resonate with many players. The relationship between Mimi and her grandmother is poignantly developed, forming the emotional core of the story.

However, the pacing of the narrative can sometimes be uneven. There are moments when the story feels slow, potentially causing some players to lose engagement. Yet, for those who appreciate a slow, thoughtful narrative, this pacing will be a welcome aspect.


 

Conclusion


Dordogne is a charming and nostalgic trip down memory lane, offering a poignant exploration of childhood and memory through a beautifully crafted narrative and aesthetic. Despite a few minor pacing issues and occasional vagueness in puzzle solutions, the game offers a unique and memorable experience that is sure to resonate with many players.

For those who appreciate narrative-focused games and can connect with its themes of nostalgia and reminiscence, Dordogne is a journey well worth taking. It serves as a shining example of how video games can effectively explore complex themes and emotions while offering an engaging and enjoyable experience.


Overall Score: 8.5/10

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