Bloom & Rage: Lost Records – Preview

Don’t Nod, the studio behind the beloved “Life is Strange” series, is set to release “Lost Records: Bloom & Rage” in early 2025. Based on a preview offered ahead of Gamescom, it appears that Don’t Nod is once again delivering a compelling, narrative-driven experience reminiscent of their previous successes.

From the moment I began playing the preview, I was transported back to the 1990s, stepping into the life of Swann, one of the four main characters. As a quirky, redheaded nerd more interested in movies than real life, Swann resonated with me immediately. Each of the other three girls at the center of the story is equally engaging, boasting distinct personalities that make them believable and relatable. This narrative doesn’t romanticize teenage life but instead presents each girl with her own set of flaws and internal issues.

What intrigued me most was how the game shifts between two decades, offering glimpses into the future. It’s clear that a significant event occurred during the summer the girls spent creating music videos, leading to years of silence among them. The reunion of Swann and Autumn at a diner table, along with their conversation, exudes an uneasy feeling. The conversations are filled with subtle hints, leaving players to ponder what could have severed such close friendships for so long.

The environments in “Bloom & Rage” capture the essence of the 90s beautifully. Exploring Swann’s bedroom and the garage where the girls bonded over punk music and her camcorder transported me back to my own teenage years. The nostalgic references, like familiar posters and favored snacks, enhanced the feeling of authenticity and connection. Another location, a hiking trail used for shooting a music video, evoked memories of my own summers recreating music videos with friends.

Swann’s camcorder plays a pivotal role in the game, serving as her tool to document life around her. This feature offers a personalized experience for players, as they revisit their recorded moments through memoirs. For me, this meant a delightful array of cat videos, adding a layer of intimacy and nostalgia to the gameplay.

The preview’s brilliance lies in its ability to weave 90s nostalgia with present-day mysteries. There’s an underlying thread of a supernatural event that took place, generating suspense and curiosity. While hints were sprinkled throughout my gameplay, the full details remain unknown, tempting me to fully experience the complete game.

I eagerly anticipate the release of “Lost Records: Bloom & Rage” on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S in 2025. Don’t Nod’s ability to craft rich, engaging narratives ensures this title will be one to watch.

Source: ComicBook