Stepping into the fantastical realm of “Thirsty Suitors,” I was quickly captivated by the creation from the developers over at Outerloop Games and it’s brought to life by the artistic touch of Annapurna Interactive, if you don’t know by now, I’m a huge fan of this publisher, always taking big artistic and creative risks in the indie game space. This time was no different, I found myself entangled in a rich tapestry of adventure, dating sim nuances, and role-playing complexities. It was a virtual odyssey, steering the narrative vessel as Jala, a twenty-five-year-old woman navigating the nostalgic landscapes of her Washington hometown, all in the context of her sister’s impending wedding.
The game unfolds as a multidimensional journey, weaving through the intricate dynamics of family, self-discovery, and the pursuit of redemption. The strategic dance of turn-based battles, skateboarding escapades, and culinary challenges, though seemingly disparate, harmonizes into an experiential symphony that reverberates with charm and personality. It felt very inspired by the modern classic comic (and movie) of “Scott Pilgrim vs. The World,” but with its own unique twist to it all. I mean, you do fight your exes in this, how can you not compare the two. Luckily, as I said, it’s a very fresh take. The battlegrounds of “Thirsty Suitors” are not just arenas for combat but stages for narrative expression. The turn-based combat system, marked by its over-the-top flair, is filled with QuickTime events that inject a surge of adrenaline into every encounter. Often games who use QuickTime events too often tend to make the game feel bland, but this time it was working for me. Unlocking upgrades and unleashing special abilities become strategic maneuvers, intertwined with a distinctive mood system that adds a layer of vulnerability exploitation. It’s not just about facing off against skate punks but engaging in epic showdowns with former flames, each battle a storytelling canvas painted with taunts and weaknesses.
The combat’s brilliance lies in its depth, where discerning enemies’ personalities and employing well-chosen taunts becomes a narrative-driven exploration rather than a mechanical requirement. Switching over to the art of skateboarding in “Thirsty Suitors” is a thrilling, yet simple little spectacle. It’s a masterclass in virtual gliding, grinding, and wall-running through the captivating terrain of Timber Hills. The game challenges players with intricate move sets and dazzling combos, conquering unique challenges that push one’s skills to the limit. The skating isn’t as complex as a Tony Hawk game, but still fun enough to play. Looming over this skateboarding haven is the enigmatic leader of the skate punks, the charismatic Soundie the Bear.
So, there is combat, skating, but also culinary segments of the game that prove to be equally as entertaining. A culinary quest unfolds, demanding not only skill but a keen sense of timing as yes, more QuickTime events punctuate the preparation of delectable South Asian dishes. These moments of gastronomic creation are not just about filling a virtual stomach but add a really cool authenticity to Indian American culture. Finding new recipes always gets me excited. Despite the seemingly disparate mechanics, “Thirsty Suitors” finds cohesion through its narrative brilliance. Each chapter unfolds with main and side quests, guiding players through exploration, random battles, and optional skating challenges. The narrative transcends mere storytelling, delving into the complexities of family dynamics, intergenerational trauma, and even dysfunctional coping mechanisms.
Visually, “Thirsty Suitors” adopts an art style that is both humorous and animated, deliberately steering away from hyper-realism. The game’s visuals contribute to the fantastical and comedic tone, emphasizing the essence of the gaming experience rather than obsessing over minute details. Throughout the immersive playthrough, the game tantalizes curiosity with numerous unlockables, which made me want to 100% complete everything. With approximately 10 hours of gameplay, “Thirsty Suitors” stands as a testament to the game’s commitment to delivering a comprehensive and delightful journey—a unique blend of gameplay mechanics and a narrative that resonates with the complexities of life, family, and cultural identity.
8/10
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Gaming since I was given an original Nintendo as a kid. I love great storytelling and unique ingenuity. When both collide in a single game, I'm a happy gamer. Twitter/IG @NickNavarro87
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