Developer – Label This

Publisher – Crunching Koalas

Platforms –  PS4/5 , Xbox One , Xbox Series S|X, PC (Reviewed)

Review copy given by Publisher

Warning:

The Gap , Contains mature language and depictions of self-harm. If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of Self-harm or Suicide, In Canada, you can reach out to Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868 or visit kidshelpphone.ca. For assistance in the United States, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available at 1-800-273-8255, or visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org , aswell as you can Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a volunteer Crisis Counselor from the Crisis Text Line. We’d also like to thank Safe in Our World for being supportive of our work in Gaming and Helping support Mental Health Awareness through Gaming.

Prepare to embark on a surreal journey into the depths of the human mind, as we delve into The Gap, a psychological thriller that pushes the boundaries of storytelling and gameplay. Developed by the creative minds at Label This and published by Crunching Koalas, this game is an absolute gem in the world of interactive entertainment. Not only does it offer an unparalleled narrative experience, but it has also garnered well-deserved recognition, receiving grants from the Epic Game Fund and earning accolades at the prestigious AMAZE Festival.

In The Gap, players are introduced to Joshua Hayes, a dedicated neuroscientist whose life takes a dramatic and unsettling turn when his family falls victim to a rare genetic neurological disorder, that slowly erodes the very essence of who they are. Memories fade, and sanity teeters on the brink, leaving Joshua with an impossible challenge: finding a cure before his family’s essence is irrevocably lost. Guided by the relentless pursuit of answers, Joshua must navigate the labyrinth of memories, emotions, and alternate dimensions, all seamlessly woven together into a gripping narrative that will leave you spellbound.

As Joshua grapples with the profound changes in his loved ones, players are given a front-row seat to the highest and lowest moments in his life. The game brilliantly navigates the raw, minimalist spaces that serve as gateways to Joshua’s past, allowing us to explore the intricate tapestry of his memories.

Joshua’s quest to save his family leads him down a unique path. The game introduces a captivating mechanism where he must recover his lost memories by venturing into parallel realities through déjà vu. These parallel dimensions offer glimpses into the past, both joyous and painful, forcing Joshua to confront the innermost depths of his psyche. As players, we’re taken on a rollercoaster ride through his memories, unravelling the layers of his past to unlock the secrets that might hold the key to his family’s salvation.

One of the most remarkable aspects of The Gap is its ability to create an atmosphere that is as captivating as it is unsettling. The game’s environments are designed with exquisite attention to detail, reflecting the fragile and fragmented nature of Joshua’s memories. Each location feels like a piece of a larger puzzle, and exploring these spaces is a deeply immersive experience.

The minimalist aesthetic of the game is both striking and impactful. It offers a blank canvas for players to project their emotions onto, making every discovery, every memory, and every revelation feel intensely personal. The desolate landscapes, seemingly devoid of life, serve as the perfect backdrop for the psychological journey that unfolds.

As Joshua ventures deeper into the enigmatic dimensions of his past, players are taken on a remarkable journey that challenges the conventions of traditional storytelling. The concept of parallel realities, accessed through déjà vu, is a masterstroke of game design. It not only adds a layer of complexity to the narrative but also offers a unique gameplay experience.

In these parallel realities, players will find memories that are dear to Joshua’s heart. These moments are the keys to unlocking his past and understanding the events that have shaped his life. It is in these memories that we witness the profound beauty and tragedy of Joshua’s existence, as well as the emotional toll his family’s condition has taken on him.

The character development in The Gap is nothing short of exceptional. Joshua is a deeply relatable protagonist, his pain and determination palpable as players accompany him on his journey. The game’s ability to make players feel as if they are truly living through Joshua’s experiences is a testament to the remarkable storytelling and character development on display.

While the core of “The Gap” revolves around the profound personal struggle of Joshua and his family, a compelling subplot emerges as Joshua becomes unwittingly entangled in a corporate intrigue. This twist adds another layer of complexity to the narrative and raises questions about trust, ethics, and the pursuit of scientific knowledge.

As Joshua unravels the web of his own memories, he is confronted with the distressing question of whether he can truly trust himself. This theme of self-reflection runs deep throughout the game, inviting players to consider the consequences of their own actions and the nature of their own memories and perceptions.

In closing, The Gap is an extraordinary and awe-inspiring creation that transcends the boundaries of conventional gaming. It is a testament to the power of interactive storytelling, offering players a unique opportunity to explore the intricacies of memory, emotion, and the human psyche. The narrative is emotionally charged and expertly crafted, taking players on a journey through the highest and lowest moments of Joshua Hayes’ life.

The game’s ability to seamlessly weave memories, emotions, and alternate dimensions into a cohesive and immersive experience is a testament to the creative genius of Label This and the skilled craftsmanship of Crunching Koalas. The Gap is not just a game; it’s a work of art that challenges players to think, feel, and reflect on their own experiences.

The minimalist ambiance, the exploration of parallel realities, and the themes of self-reflection and trust all come together to create a gaming experience that is unlike any other. The Gap is a masterpiece that deserves all the accolades it has received and more. If you’re looking for a game that will not only entertain but also leave a lasting impact, The Gap is an absolute must-play.