I bought this little gem a few years ago during a Steam sale and – sadly – it had been hibernating in my library ever since. Once I picked it up though, it was almost impossible to tear myself from it!

Seasons After Fall convinces with its relaxing music and atmosphere, beautiful (yet simplistic) graphic design and enchanting storyline. I would class this as an explorative puzzle game, which means that you will need to like discovering every little nook and cranny of the – sometimes sheer endless seeming – map to make any progress. As this game is a side-scroller, there are all manner of beautifully crafted backdrops (yes, they change when you change the seasons!) and carefully animated artwork. Using W,A,S, D and the mouse buttons to navigate, you can have a relaxing stroll through nature as there is no time pressure to herd you through the scenery, no enemies to battle to the death, no damaging objects that may cost you your progress or other players to annoy/distract you.

Primarily, you will be playing as a cute little fox on its journey to save the woods with the help of the four seasons and their guardians. The first puzzles and the opening gameplay may feel a bit too easy and slow, however, the story (and difficulty of the puzzles) picks up quickly and I found that the obvious ending you were working toward was only the beginning. There is so much more to see! Certainly, I have to add that the fitting voice-overs and wonderful string-quartet soundtrack only make it more enjoyable.

Nevertheless, there is one glaring issue I had with this lovely game: BACKTRACKING. Back and forth and back and forth, sometimes only to lose your way as there is no minimap to guide you. In this case, the beautiful maps and landscapes can feel more like a prison, designed to drive you mad, than an enjoyable way to pass your evening. Nope, you guessed it – there is absolutely no fast travel. In addition, there is very little in the ways of progress indicators, so that you may become easily confused if you leave the game lying around for too long.

In conclusion, I can definitely recommend this game if you are looking for a way to unwind and lose yourself in a distinctive artwork of colour and sounds. Yet, be aware that most of you will either be bored out of their minds or unavailable due to excessive foxing for the next 9-11 hours.

Written by: Aeona