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Review: Always in Mind (Steam Nextfest Demo)

10/10

Summary

Embarking on this coming-of-age tale is an experience for the ages, and Always in Mind invites players to discover that true change comes from within. With its seamless blend of surreal adventure, effortless exploration, stellar storytelling, and the emotional resonance of artificial friendship, this game is nothing short of a masterpiece. Always in Mind stands as a shining example of what happens when creativity and heart come together in the world of gaming, this game was instantly added to my wishlist and I can’t wait to play the finished game.

Developer – Inevitable Studios

Publisher – Inevitable Studios

Platforms –  PC (Reviewed)

Review copy given by Developer

Steam NextFest Note:

The Following Review is of the Demo released during the Steam Nextfest , a multi-day celebration of upcoming games where you can Explore and play hundreds of demos. This Steam Next Fest will take place from February 5th – 12th, 2024 @ 10:00AM Pacific. The following Review is of the Demo released during Steam NextFest , The game may change before release.

As I keep getting early Access to Steam Next-fest demos to review and talk about , I keep getting amazed at some of the smaller indie games , and let me tell you Always in Mind is one that has blown me away so far ( just ever so slightly more then Deathbound which I reviewed just the other day)!

Always in Mind is a story-driven action-platformer that has been called “Mario, with meaning” , with dashes of Journey, Psychonauts, The Iron Giant, and even Calvin & Hobbes. The game has an amazing fusion of Narrative and Action , and the gameplay is what some are calling “It Take Two for One” .

The game is an extraordinary gaming experience that seamlessly blends a heartfelt coming-of-age tale with mind-bending surrealism. The game unfolds as an accidental fall thrusts 12-year-old Teddy into a mesmerizing coma, immersing players in a vast and surreal landscape of unlimited possibilities.

At the heart of this captivating adventure is Teddy’s partnership with an AI implant named “Proxy.” Together, they navigate the intricacies of Teddy’s subconscious, unlocking awe-inspiring powers that are as visually stunning as they are conceptually mind-blowing. The Surreal Adventure aspect of the game takes players on an unpredictable journey through mind-bending dreamscapes, offering a truly unique and immersive gaming experience.

Effortless Exploration is a hallmark of Always in Mind, allowing players to seamlessly jump, warp, slide, and glide through every corner of Teddy’s mind. The added thrill of high-speed sledding excursions adds an exhilarating dimension to the exploration, making every moment a joyous adventure.

The Stellar Storytelling in Always in Mind is a true standout feature. The gorgeous visuals, dynamic cameras, and an original soundtrack work in harmony to keep players fully immersed and in total control of their narrative. The game effortlessly weaves together the emotional core of Teddy’s journey with the fantastical elements of the subconscious, creating a story that resonates long after the controller is set down.

What truly sets Always in Mind apart is the theme of Artificial Friendship. Proxy isn’t just a companion, guide, and buddy; he becomes the key to re-connecting Teddy’s shattered family. The depth of this connection adds an emotional layer to the game that elevates it beyond a mere gaming experience and transforms it into a poignant exploration of relationships and self-discovery.

Embarking on this coming-of-age tale is an experience for the ages, and Always in Mind invites players to discover that true change comes from within. With its seamless blend of surreal adventure, effortless exploration, stellar storytelling, and the emotional resonance of artificial friendship, this game is nothing short of a masterpiece. Always in Mind stands as a shining example of what happens when creativity and heart come together in the world of gaming, this game was instantly added to my wishlist and I can’t wait to play the finished game.

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