What Remains of Edith Finch? A Poignant Exploration of Family Legacy and Magical Realism!
“What Remains of Edith Finch?” is not your typical adventure game. It eschews traditional puzzle-solving and combat for a deeply personal, melancholic journey through the history of a cursed family. Developed by Giant Sparrow and published by Annapurna Interactive, this indie gem invites players to step into the shoes of Edith Finch, a young woman returning to her decaying childhood home after years away. Driven by a thirst to understand her family’s mysterious past, Edith begins unraveling a series of interconnected stories, each more fantastical than the last.
The Finch family is plagued by a strange affliction: they all die tragically, often in bizarre and improbable circumstances. Through exploring their abandoned rooms and interacting with environmental clues, players experience these deaths firsthand. Each story unfolds through its own unique gameplay mechanic, reflecting the personality of the deceased Finch. You might find yourself navigating a surreal dreamscape as a young boy obsessed with Lewis Carroll, controlling a giant kraken battling a rogue wave as a brave fisherman, or playing a simple but haunting melody on an antique piano as a musically gifted composer.
The Narrative Tapestry: Intertwining Stories and Themes
“What Remains of Edith Finch?” masterfully weaves together a tapestry of individual narratives into a cohesive whole. The game delves into universal themes such as love, loss, grief, and the search for meaning in life. Each Finch story highlights different facets of the human experience, prompting reflection on the fragility of existence and the lasting impact we have on those around us.
The writing is both poignant and poetic, imbued with a sense of wistful nostalgia. The game doesn’t shy away from tackling complex emotions; instead, it embraces them with sensitivity and understanding. Edith’s own journey of self-discovery adds another layer to the narrative, as she grapples with her family legacy and ultimately comes to terms with her own mortality.
Visual Feast: A World Brought to Life Through Art
The visual style of “What Remains of Edith Finch?” is breathtaking. Giant Sparrow employs a distinctive blend of realism and whimsy, creating a world that feels both familiar and otherworldly. The game’s environments are meticulously crafted, with each room in the Finch house reflecting the personality of its former inhabitant.
From the cluttered workshop of a tinkerer to the overgrown garden of a nature enthusiast, every space tells a story. The use of color is particularly noteworthy; vibrant hues contrast sharply against muted tones, underscoring the surreal and dreamlike nature of the narrative.
Musical Landscape: An Emotional Soundtrack
The game’s soundtrack further enhances the emotional impact of “What Remains of Edith Finch?”. Composed by Gustavo Santaolalla, known for his work on films like “Brokeback Mountain” and “Babel”, the music is hauntingly beautiful, shifting seamlessly between moments of quiet contemplation and sweeping orchestral swells. Each Finch story has its own musical theme, reinforcing the unique atmosphere and emotions associated with it.
Production Values: A Testament to Indie Excellence
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Platform Availability | PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC, Switch, iOS, Android |
| Developer | Giant Sparrow |
| Publisher | Annapurna Interactive |
| Genre | Adventure, Narrative-Driven |
| Release Date | July 25, 2017 |
“What Remains of Edith Finch?” is a testament to the power of indie game development. Its relatively short playtime (around 3 hours) belies the depth and complexity of its narrative. The game’s innovative approach to storytelling, combined with its stunning visuals and evocative soundtrack, makes it a truly unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or simply looking for something different, “What Remains of Edith Finch?” is a game that will stay with you long after the credits roll. It’s a poignant meditation on life, death, and the enduring power of family bonds.