The resurgence of “retro games” has secured a significant market share. This is likely due to the comparatively lower development costs associated with games like Whispers of a Machine, as opposed to more graphically intensive indie titles such as Observer. The emphasis shifts from cutting-edge visuals to compelling narrative, a defining characteristic of the genre.
Whispers of a Machine is a collaborative effort between developer Clifftop Games and publisher Raw Fury, both based in Sweden. Impressively, Whispers of a Machine, developed by a small team, offers a polished and engaging experience. The game’s retro aesthetic evokes classic titles, bringing to mind experiences like Indiana Jones and the Fate of Atlantis. The game immediately captivates the player from its opening moments.
The narrative begins with agent Vera Englund investigating a series of murders. Equipped with advanced augmentations granting her abilities such as enhanced strength and lie detection, Vera soon discovers the murders are merely the surface of a deeper conspiracy.
Whispers of a Machine presents a significant challenge at times, requiring meticulous attention to detail. Progressing through certain sections may necessitate thorough exploration and careful consideration of clues. The game features intriguing environments and commendable voice acting. The choice to forgo Swedish accents, despite the game’s futuristic Swedish setting, enhances the overall presentation. Player choices drive the narrative in this compelling story.
The mobile implementation of Whispers of a Machine is surprisingly effective. Testing on both an iPhone 7 and an iPad revealed that, while the interface is somewhat compact on the phone, the gameplay remains engaging, and the controls are intuitive and functional. The iPad’s larger display offers a more expansive visual experience, but the core gameplay is consistent across both platforms.
Thimbleweed Park serves as another strong example of the retro point-and-click genre, and Whispers of a Machine occasionally achieves a similar level of stylistic excellence. Future titles from these Swedish developers are anticipated, and Whispers of a Machine receives a strong recommendation.
