Developer – Out of the Blue Games

Publisher – Raw Fury

Platforms –  Xbox One, PS4 , PC (Reviewed)

Review copy given by Publisher

From the ingenious minds at Out of the Blue, American Arcadia , invites players to traverse the intriguing landscapes of a retro-futuristic 70s metropolis. Within this city of apparent opulence and comfort, a sinister reality unfolds as citizens remain blissfully ignorant of their involuntary participation in the most popular reality TV show on the planet. In this elaborate facade, love, loss, and the precarious nature of fame converge, setting the stage for a narrative-driven adventure unlike any other.

Our protagonist, Trevor Hills, emerges as the unsuspecting hero from the ranks of mundane office clerks. His ordinary existence becomes the catalyst for an adrenaline-pumping escape from the clutches of American Arcadia, where a plummet in popularity equates to the ultimate cost – death. However, Trevor is not alone in this perilous journey; enter Angela Solano, the indispensable ally determined to navigate the intricacies of this dystopian dreamscape.

As a stage technician for American Arcadia, Angela assumes the role of a first-person hacker, wielding her technical prowess and strategic acumen to manipulate the environment. Her symbiotic relationship with Trevor creates a dynamic gameplay experience, where cooperation is not just encouraged but vital for success. The synergy between these two characters epitomizes the essence of the game, where unity is the key to overcoming the formidable corporation orchestrating the deadly contest.

The game’s innovation shines through in its seamless integration of 2.5D puzzle platforming sections, where players guide Trevor through the labyrinthine challenges of escape. These sections provide a visceral, hands-on experience of the dangers lurking within the metropolis. In contrast, the first-person hacking gameplay as Angela adds a cerebral dimension to the narrative, requiring players to unravel the mysteries from an entirely different perspective.

What sets American Arcadia apart is its narrative complexity, rife with unexpected twists, turns, and layers of deception. The plot unfolds gradually, revealing a tapestry of lies that keeps players hooked and invested in the fate of our protagonists. The meticulously crafted world-building is evident in every pixel, immersing players in the pulsating atmosphere of the 70s metropolis.

Visually, the game is a feast for the eyes, with graphics and design that pay homage to the retro-futuristic aesthetic. The attention to detail, whether in the bustling metropolis or the meticulously crafted puzzle sections, contributes to the overall immersion. The soundtrack complements the visual experience, enhancing the suspense and drama, making every moment resonate with cinematic intensity.

American Arcadia transcends the realm of mere gaming; it’s an interactive narrative that challenges players to confront the duality of utopia and dystopia. With its symbiotic interplay between characters, Out of the Blue has birthed an unforgettable gaming experience. The journey into the shadows of reality is not just perilous; it’s an odyssey that demands resilience, strategy, and a willingness to unravel the intricacies of a world shrouded in deception.

In a landscape saturated with gaming options, American Arcadia stands tall as a beacon of originality and excellence. American Arcadia is more than a recommendation; it’s a mandatory sojourn into the heart of dystopian gaming brilliance. Step into the unknown, where every decision echoes through the corridors of a metropolis that conceals as much as it reveals.