Time Capsule Uncovered: 90s Nostalgic Duo Bloom & Rage Reemerges

Don't Nod's Lost Records: Bloom & Rage – A Nostalgic Journey Back to the 90s

Don't Nod, the studio behind the beloved Life is Strange, returns to its narrative roots with Lost Records: Bloom & Rage, a captivating coming-of-age story infused with 90s nostalgia. This isn't just interactive cinema; it's a heartfelt tribute to carefree youth and enduring friendships.

A Reunion Forged in Mystery

The game centers on four women whose friendship fractured 27 years prior. Swan Holloway, our protagonist, returns to her hometown of Velvet Bay for a reunion, only to discover a mysterious package from the past. This triggers a journey into forgotten memories, exploring a haunting forest, an abandoned house, and long-buried secrets. The narrative cleverly interweaves two timelines – 1995 and 2022 – showcasing the characters' youthful exuberance and their present-day awkwardness.

Image: ensigame.com

Gameplay and Choices

The majority of gameplay unfolds in the 1995 timeline. Players explore richly detailed environments, build relationships, and document events using a vintage HVS camera. Video recording is a core mechanic, allowing Swan to capture everything from graffiti and wildlife to subtle paranormal clues. These recordings can be edited into short films, offering a unique perspective on the narrative.

Image: ensigame.com

Player choices, while not drastically altering the core plot (at least in the first episode), significantly impact dialogue, relationships, and even the environment. Small decisions, like choosing to buy ice cream or not, ripple through the narrative, creating a dynamic and engaging experience.

Beautifully Imperfect Characters

Don't Nod excels at creating relatable and authentic characters. Swan, a shy 16-year-old, is far from perfect, adding depth and realism to her personality. Her friends, Ottem, Kate, and Nora, each embody familiar archetypes but avoid cliché, revealing surprising complexities as the story unfolds.

Image: ensigame.com

Image: ensigame.com

Image: ensigame.com

A Town Steeped in Nostalgia

Velvet Bay, the game's setting, is a masterclass in evocative atmosphere. Swan's room, filled with 90s artifacts, is a nostalgic treasure trove. The game is brimming with pop culture references, from films and music to video games, seamlessly woven into the narrative. The soundtrack, a blend of dream-pop and indie-rock, perfectly complements the game's mood.

Image: ensigame.com

A Deliberate Pace

Lost Records unfolds at a slower pace than Life is Strange, prioritizing character development and atmosphere over immediate mystery-solving. While this might not appeal to all players, it allows for a deeper connection with the characters and the setting. The first episode culminates in a powerful cliffhanger, leaving players eagerly anticipating the next installment.

Image: ensigame.com

A Promising Start

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage is a nostalgic trip back to the 90s, expertly capturing the era's spirit and charm. With its relatable characters, engaging interactions, and a compelling mystery, it's a promising start to what could be a truly exceptional narrative adventure. The release of the second part on April 15th will determine its ultimate legacy.