I played this little indie game during a period of grieving in my life and I figured at the time that’s why it resonated so heavily with me because of the emotional turmoil I was going through. However, I went back and replayed this indie title a few years later to see if it still struck those same chords and I can say not only did it deliver, but it was even better upon a second play-through.
With a short average playtime of maybe 2 hours max, What Remains of Edith Finch is a deeply emotional journey because it invites you to explore universal themes of family, memory, and loss in such an intimate and personal way. The story is about what I think is probably the unluckiest family I’ve seen; almost as if they’d been cursed. The game uses its interactive storytelling to immerse you in the lives of different family members, allowing you to experience their stories not just as a passive observer, but as an active participant. This approach makes the emotions feel raw and immediate, pulling you into the weight of their joys and sorrows. Every single member of the Finch family tree pulls you into their point of view and how they met their untimely demise.
What’s particularly moving is how the game blends whimsical, dreamlike sequences with moments of stark reality. The contrast amplifies the poignancy of each story, reminding you of how fleeting and fragile life can be. Each chapter feels unique and creative, yet it’s all tied together by a shared sense of longing and love. It’s not just a story about loss—it’s also a celebration of life and the beauty found in small, fleeting moments.
Finally, What Remains of Edith Finch resonates because it asks you to reflect on your own connections with family and the stories we pass down. It’s not just about the Finch family; it’s about all of us. By the end, you’re left with a profound sense of both melancholy and hope, as you carry the weight of the family’s history with you. The game stays with you long after the credits roll, lingering as a bittersweet reminder of how our stories shape who we are and finally discovering all along ‘what’ remains of Edith Finch.
Chao,
Mikhail
Verdict: 10/10
https://opencritic.com/game/4132/what-remains-of-edith-finch