Developer – Unreliable Narrators

Publisher – Unreliable Narrators, Indie Asylum

Platforms – PS5, Xbox Series S|X,PC (Reviewed)

Review copy given by Developer

When two cultures collide, a captivating story emerges. Two Falls (Nishu Takuatshina) is a narrative-driven adventure that transports players to the heart of 17th-century Canadian wilderness. Through the dual perspectives of Jeanne, a shipwrecked French settler, and Maïkan, an Innu hunter, the game masterfully explores themes of survival, cultural convergence, and the human capacity for understanding amidst adversity.

The game begins with Jeanne, a determined Frenchwoman seeking a fresh start in the colonies of Nouvelle-France. Her dreams are quickly shattered when a shipwreck leaves her and her loyal dog, Capitaine, stranded in an unforgiving land. Jeanne’s struggle is not only physical but deeply spiritual, as she grapples with her faith and personal beliefs in the face of relentless challenges. Her arc is both harrowing and inspiring, offering a poignant look at resilience and self-discovery.

On the other side of this narrative is Maïkan, a young Innu hunter whose life has been shaped by the traditions of his people. As a dark force corrupts his homeland, Maïkan embarks on a journey that leads him to an inevitable encounter with the foreign settlers. His story is one of identity, as he navigates the tension between preserving his cultural heritage and understanding a world irrevocably altered by new influences.

What sets Two Falls apart is its commitment to delivering a deeply immersive experience. The game’s artistic direction beautifully captures the distinct perspectives of Jeanne and Maïkan, using unique visual styles that reflect their cultural backgrounds. The rich, atmospheric soundtrack further enhances the experience, blending traditional Indigenous music with French colonial influences to create a soundscape as diverse as the story it supports.

Gameplay centers around narrative exploration and detective-like investigations. Players will unravel the mysteries of the wilderness by piecing together environmental clues and making decisions that shape the characters’ journeys. Although the story follows a largely linear path, these choices impact how Jeanne and Maïkan evolve, offering a sense of agency that keeps the experience personal and engaging.

Two Falls is not just a story of survival; it’s a meditation on cultural collision and understanding. Jeanne and Maïkan’s perspectives on the same events often differ dramatically, and the game invites players to reflect on how personal and cultural contexts shape one’s view of the world. This duality is the game’s greatest strength, encouraging empathy and fostering a deeper appreciation for the complexities of history.

Born in Canada myself , I know how important it is to learn about the lost and sometimes forgotten tales of Canada’s many different indiginious backgrounds . Just like the similar game Never Alone (Kisima Ingitchuna) did with the Iñupiat group of Alaska Native peoples, I believe Two Falls (Nishu Takuatshina) is a narrative masterpiece that combines rich storytelling with immersive gameplay to deliver a profoundly moving experience that teaches everyone more about the Innu background. Its exploration of cultural convergence is both thoughtful and timely, making it a must-play for fans of narrative-driven games. Jeanne and Maïkan’s intertwined journeys will linger with you long after the final scene, a testament to the game’s emotional depth and narrative power.