As Long As You're Here
" Emotional indie adventure with powerful storytelling and authentic dementia portrayal but short length "
As Long As You're Here Review
As Long As You're Here is a deeply emotional and beautifully crafted interactive experience that sensitively explores the perspective of someone living with dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Players engage in simple daily routines that gradually become disorienting, reflecting the character’s cognitive decline with subtle, thoughtful design. The game's minimalist yet evocative art style and Scandinavian influences create a calm, intimate atmosphere that enhances the storytelling.
Though short—typically around one hour—the game leaves a lasting emotional impact, often moving players to tears. It is praised for its respectful and accurate portrayal of dementia, making it both an educational and heartfelt journey. Some minor technical issues like slow text and motion sickness concerns were noted, but these do not detract significantly from the overall experience. This game is highly recommended for those seeking a poignant narrative that fosters empathy and understanding of a difficult subject.
Highlights
Players consistently praise the game's emotional storytelling and authentic representation of dementia. The subtle environmental changes effectively convey memory loss and confusion, immersing players in the character’s experience.
The simple, stylistic visuals and peaceful outdoor environments receive commendation for enhancing the atmosphere. Many reviewers highlight the meaningful narrative and the personal connection it fosters, often describing it as a tearjerker that lingers long after completion.
The game's brevity is seen as appropriate, delivering a powerful message without overstaying its welcome.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include the game’s short duration, with some players feeling the price is high for the length of about an hour. A few mention minor technical issues such as slow text display and occasional dizzying animations.
Motion sickness due to camera movements was a concern for some, suggesting improvements like camera stabilization or alternative perspectives could enhance accessibility.
Replayability is limited by the lack of scene selection or the ability to revisit specific moments, which some players would appreciate.
Pros
- • Powerful emotional storytelling that deeply resonates with players.
- • Authentic and respectful portrayal of dementia and Alzheimer’s experience.
- • Simple, elegant art style enhances the intimate atmosphere.
- • Subtle environmental shifts effectively simulate memory loss.
- • Short duration delivers a meaningful impact without overstaying.
- • Educational value increases empathy and understanding of dementia.
- • Quiet pacing allows players to absorb the narrative fully.
Cons
- • Short gameplay length may feel insufficient for some players.
- • Price point considered high relative to game duration by some.
- • Slow text display can interrupt narrative flow occasionally.
- • Motion sickness reported due to camera movement and transitions.
- • No scene selection limits replayability and revisiting moments.
- • Some minor visual hiccups like dizzying morning animations.
- • Limited interactivity reduces engagement for players seeking gameplay.
Rating Criteria
What if you lost all your memories? An emotional family drama seen through the eyes of a woman with Alzheimer's disease. As Annie’s life slowly unravels, uncover memories of her deceased brother as her past bleeds into the present.