I Was a Teenage Exocolonist
" Emotional indie RPG simulation with deep storytelling and card battles but a grindy loop "
I Was a Teenage Exocolonist Review
I Was a Teenage Exocolonist is widely praised as a deeply emotional and immersive life simulation RPG with deck-building mechanics, set on an alien planet. Players live through a decade of their character's life, making impactful choices that shape relationships, skills, and the colony's future. The game’s narrative explores complex themes such as trauma, grief, survival, and identity, often delivering powerful emotional moments that resonate deeply with players.
Replayability is a core strength, with multiple endings and storylines encouraging repeated playthroughs to uncover all content. The game's art style is vibrant and appealing, complemented by a fitting soundtrack. While the card-based gameplay adds strategic depth, it remains accessible and can be adjusted in difficulty. Despite some minor pacing issues and a few underdeveloped elements, the game is regarded as a masterpiece by many and highly recommended for fans of story-driven and emotionally complex games.
Highlights
Players especially praise the game’s rich storytelling and emotionally impactful narrative that tackles serious themes with sincerity.
The gameplay mechanics, combining life simulation with deck-building, offer meaningful choices and strategic depth, enhancing replayability.
The vibrant art style and well-crafted character designs contribute to a visually engaging experience.
The soundtrack and atmosphere further immerse players in the alien world and the colony’s evolving story.
Customization options, including pronouns and character appearance, are appreciated for inclusivity.
Criticisms
Some players find the gameplay loop repetitive, especially due to the necessity of multiple playthroughs to experience the full story.
The romance arcs are viewed as underdeveloped and occasionally unsatisfying.
The transition between the game’s two narrative halves can feel rushed, impacting pacing.
A few stats and mechanics seem underutilized, leading to imbalances.
Walking segments and limited map areas may feel monotonous to some.
Trigger warnings are noted as insufficient by some, particularly regarding sensitive topics like abuse.
3D character models and sprites receive mixed feedback, described as less polished compared to other elements.
Pros
- • Deep, emotionally resonant storytelling with impactful character development.
- • Innovative blend of life simulation and deck-building gameplay mechanics.
- • High replayability with multiple endings and branching storylines.
- • Vibrant and appealing art style with detailed character designs.
- • Inclusive customization options including pronouns and gender identity.
- • Engaging soundtrack that enhances immersion and atmosphere.
- • Meaningful player choices that affect relationships and colony fate.
Cons
- • Repetitive gameplay loop can feel grindy due to required multiple runs.
- • Romance options are underdeveloped and sometimes unsatisfying.
- • Pacing issues with rushed transition between narrative halves.
- • Some stats and mechanics are underutilized or unbalanced.
- • Walking and exploration can feel monotonous with limited map areas.
- • Trigger warnings insufficient for sensitive content like abuse.
- • 3D models and sprites are less polished compared to art style.
Rating Criteria
Spend your teenage years on an alien planet in this narrative RPG with card-based battles. Explore, grow up, and fall in love. The choices you make and skills you master over ten years will determine the course of your life and the survival of your colony.
