Spiral by Folklore Games
Emotion-driven narratives are meant to tug at heartstrings. Spiral is no exception. In fact, it offers an experience unlike anything I’ve come across in the video game universe.
Centering around cognitive degeneration – or as we know it, Alzheimer’s or dementia – Spiral establishes an empathetic angle as you follow Bernard through his most cherished memories and moments. As his journey progresses, his mind becomes more fragmented.
Well, so does your heart.
The Downward Spiral
Developed by Folklore Games, Spiral brings to light a topic that is more evident in our world today than it probably ever has been: dementia. I have everyday experience working with those who have memory loss and mental decline, so taking the reins as the ever-so-lovely Bernard and attentively listening to his commentary regarding his memories felt familiar in both a happy and sad way.
Bernard is an old man working his way down a spiral staircase in a fractured yet beautiful environment. Your job, as the player, is to support Bernie in remembering significant chapters of his life.
Beginning with his childhood, you learn to interact with sometimes very random objects. However, these objects are not random to Bernie. They retain nostalgia for our friend, so I learned to engage with everything I possibly could while indulging in Bernie’s memories.
The beloved recollections of Bernie’s life are fleshed out in a relatable way. Every time Bernie opens a door to unveil a new memory, I’d expect it to be a milestone in his lifetime – a graduation, perhaps, or his first kiss – but it would be something as simple as fishing with his dad or sneaking into the restricted section of the library with his sister.
It reminds players that sometimes the little moments are what matter most. They can reside in your mind for the rest of your life.
Sweet Memories
Bernie’s everlasting experiences are often accompanied by mini-games. Spiral incorporates fishing, making burgers, playing with Bernie’s dog Elfie, and other elementary activities for you to partake in. In no way is Spiral a challenging game, nor is it meant to be.
I found the most enjoyment with Castles and Creatures, which is Spiral’s version of Dungeons and Dragons. You’re submerged into the game itself, alongside Bernie’s lifelong friends, partaking in basic battles and painless puzzles.
The valued people in Bernie’s life are scripted in a way where you can’t help but adore them all. They all embrace their distinctive characteristics, each adding a different value to Bernie’s life. His recollection of his friends and family through his commentary compels you to love them as much as he does.
Mystique embodies some characters that make you question Bernie’s intentions: is it friend-love or is it love love? I won’t spoil too much, but his admiration for the people in his life had me reflecting on those in mine.
Moments Lost in Time
As previously mentioned, Spiral is a narrative story-driven experience. You’re unraveling Bernie’s mind, and in that process, there are glitchy facets that can be maddening. The mechanics could certainly be a lot smoother, but it wasn’t such a hindrance that I’d give up on my friend Bernie.
The further Bernie strolls down the spiral staircase, the more his confusion grows. He begins mixing up names, moments, and once-familiar places. Having experience with dementia, Bernie’s imminent frustration and loss of who he once was resonated with me.
I only spent eight or so hours with Bernie, but his storytelling absorbed me into his world. Witnessing that all vanish was heartbreaking.
Spiral portrays what dementia or Alzheimer’s can feel like to someone who is experiencing it firsthand. The colorful environments only accentuate who Bernie is: a fun, playful writer who loves those around him.
The Verdict:
Though there are parts of Spiral that could use some work, it reminded me of how precious life is and those who occupy spaces in our hearts. To say Spiral is one of the most meaningful and tear-jerking games I’ve ever played is an understatement.
The world needs more education on cognitive degeneration, and Spiral hits the nail on the head.
Spiral is available via the Microsoft Store and Steam.
Watch the official trailer for Spiral below:
