Road 96 is set in an alternate present within the nation of Petria, a country governed by a highly restrictive regime. Numerous teenagers have vanished while desperately attempting to cross the border. The player’s objective is to successfully escape the country without being captured or killed. During this journey, you’ll encounter a diverse cast of characters, some of whom may offer assistance while others may prove treacherous. Each interaction influences the game’s ending, ensuring a unique experience with every playthrough.
Road 96 initially bears some resemblance to Hitchhiker – A Mystery Game, primarily due to the mechanic of hitchhiking and interacting with various individuals during your travels. However, the similarities largely end there. A key difference is the freedom to exit vehicles and explore the environment. Players can choose to proceed by walking, hitchhiking, or utilizing bus transportation.
Every decision the player makes impacts the game’s conclusion. Upon capture, the narrative continues through the perspective of another character, presenting alternative solutions. Encounters with diverse characters provide additional information and opportunities to facilitate a successful border crossing. The approach to the border creates a palpable sense of tension, demanding quick thinking and resourcefulness to survive.
Road 96 features compelling writing and strong voice acting performances. The game effectively blends elements of mystery, humor, and heartwarming interactions with themes of sorrow, tragedy, and anxiety. The dynamic nature of the game, influenced by player choices, ensures substantial replayability.
A notable drawback lies in the somewhat clunky game mechanics. While free movement is permitted, interaction with objects requires precise positioning. This can quickly lead to frustration. For instance, attempting to exit a room, the most intuitive solution may not be immediately actionable, prompting a search for alternatives. After considerable trial and error, it may become apparent that the initial solution was indeed viable, but the interaction trigger was only accessible from a specific, narrowly defined location.
In conclusion, Road 96 boasts a distinctive visual style and a compelling, well-crafted narrative. The game’s dynamic nature, adapting to player choices, contributes significantly to its replay value. However, the somewhat unrefined game mechanics stand in contrast to the overall polish of the experience.
Ravenscourt provided a review copy of this game. Provision of material does not influence editorial assessments.
