Developer – Kinmoku

Publisher – Kinmoku

Platforms –  PC (Reviewed)

Review copy given by Publisher

Warning:

VIDEOVERSE contains swearing and online abuse, in addition to inappropriate drawings, such as nudes, drug use and mild gore. It is intended to show a real depiction of the internet. If you or someone you know is experiencing Cyber-bullying or Online Abuse , 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. The Cyberbullying Research Center also offers resources and support at cyberbullying.org. In the UK, the NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children) can be reached at 0808 800 5000, and their website is nspcc.org.uk. 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.

In a world that thrives on nostalgia, VIDEOVERSE takes you on a thrilling journey down memory lane to a time when the internet was a wild frontier of self-expression and online friendships. Developed by the creators of “One Night Stand,” this decision-based narrative adventure aims to capture the essence of 90s social media networks like Myspace, MSN Messenger, and early internet forums. While VIDEOVERSE nails the nostalgia factor, it stumbles when it comes to keeping your interest in the long run.

Step into the shoes of Emmett, a young video game enthusiast and budding artist. As you guide him through the world of Kinmoku Shark and its social network, Videoverse, you’ll experience the heady days of late-90s and early-2000s internet culture. The references to iconic figures like Myspace Tom, Neopets, and the original Facebook are bound to elicit warm smiles from any 90s kid.

The game is a true throwback, with its vintage tech aesthetics and a fantastic soundtrack reminiscent of the Kinmoku Shark’s chill soundscape, courtesy of Clark Aboud. It instantly rekindles memories of those favorite retro gaming consoles. You can personalize your Videoverse experience by choosing your avatar, personal quote, and favorite theme, adding an extra layer of immersion.

VIDEOVERSE offers an extensive cast of characters and multiple side stories, making it feel like a bustling online community. You’ll get to relive the Feudal Fantasy era, which mirrors the passionate discussions and fan theories that were so prevalent in those times. The inclusion of accessibility options like clear font, closed captions, and colorblind-friendly themes is a thoughtful touch, making the game inclusive to a wider audience.

However, despite its strong nostalgic appeal and attention to detail, VIDEOVERSE falls short in keeping players engaged. The gameplay primarily consists of making choices, which affect Emmett’s character development, but these decisions often feel inconsequential, lacking significant consequences. It’s akin to scrolling through an old internet forum without the thrill of active participation. The game’s narrative, which promises teenage drama, video game fandoms, and corporate conspiracies, fails to deliver the depth and intrigue it hints at.

Another drawback is the game’s relatively short playtime. While it’s true that VIDEOVERSE is priced accordingly, it leaves you wanting more, especially given the potential of its premise. There’s a missed opportunity to dive deeper into the lore of Kinmoku Shark, Videoverse, and the Feudal Fantasy game within the game.

In conclusion, VIDEOVERSE is a delightful trip back to the heyday of 90s social media sites and online gaming communities. It impeccably recreates the ambiance of that era, but it ultimately struggles to provide meaningful and lasting engagement. If you’re seeking a brief nostalgia fix and don’t mind the lack of deep gameplay, VIDEOVERSE is worth a look. However, for those looking for a more immersive and compelling gaming experience, it may fall short of expectations.