Beholder is a game that definitely deserves a spot in my top 10 list of all-time favorites, and if you haven't played it yet, you're missing out! Not only is it available on PC and Mac, but it's also now available on the Nintendo Switch, which was perfect for a long plane ride I recently took. And if you're always on the go, you'll be happy to know that it's also available on the App and Google Play stores.
Released in 2016, Beholder is not a new game by any means, but it's a game that truly stands the test of time. The game takes place in a grim dystopian future, where a totalitarian state controls every aspect of private and public life, and laws are oppressive. The player takes on the role of a state-installed manager of an apartment building. The player's main task is to covertly watch and spy on the tenants, bugging their apartments, searching their belongings, profiling them for superiors, and reporting any suspicious or subversive activities to the authorities.
One of the most striking aspects of Beholder is how it reflects on the reality of surveillance and loss of privacy for some people in the world. While for me, it is just a game, it serves as a sobering reminder that for some people, this type of surveillance and control is a daily reality. This game reflects an important topic, and it has been done in such a way that is truly terrifying, the fact that it reflects reality makes it all the more poignant.
It's important to note that the game does contain some mature themes that may not be suitable for everyone. This includes some violent and gory elements, similar to what you might see in a shooting video game. While the game is not overly graphic, it's always good to be aware of the content before playing.
Pros
Spying: One of the game's most exciting aspects is the ability to snoop around your neighbors' apartments and gather information. However, this is also a chilling reminder of the reason behind your actions and the consequences they may have.
Decisions: Beholder stands out among other games for how it makes every decision the player makes impactful and has consequences, it's a game that is different every time you play. The choices you make are not always clear cut, it's common that the line between "good" and "bad" is blurred, and the decisions that benefit you and your family can have devastating effects on others.
Replayability: The game has endless replayability, every time you play it, you will discover new characters, decision options, and outcomes that you didn't encounter before, which makes it a thrilling experience every time you dive in.
Realism: The game's portrayal of surveillance and loss of privacy will resonate with some players, as the realism of the game in relation to the situations in certain countries is spot-on and eerily accurate.
Educational Value: This game has the potential to be a valuable educational tool for schools or for use with teenagers and young adults. It encourages discussions on the nature of totalitarian states, their impact on people's lives, and the consequences of our decisions.
Visuals: Although the graphics in the game may not be cutting-edge, they still hold up well to modern standards and are well-suited to the game's setting. The game features simple, dark, and impactful visuals that perfectly fit the overall aesthetic and design choice of the game, despite being originally released in 2016.
Audio: The game utilizes audio effectively without overusing it, and the choice of the language spoken in the game adds to the overall atmosphere and immersion and enhances the overall gameplay.
Cons
Shortcuts: As you become more familiar with the game mechanics, it becomes easier to identify and utilize shortcuts that can help you achieve the results you desire more efficiently. It typically takes a couple of playthroughs to fully understand the game's mechanics and be able to use shortcuts effectively.
Nintendo Switch controls: Playing the game on the Nintendo Switch can be a bit challenging as the controls may take some getting used to and may slow you down during fast-paced moments where quick decisions are required. At least it will never be as complicated as Journey to the Blue Mountain.
Overall, I highly recommend this game to everyone. It may not be a traditional "fun" game, but it provides a unique and thought-provoking experience that is worth playing. It would be an excellent educational tool for schools, especially for history classes. Even if you are under 18, you can bring this game to your history teacher and have a meaningful discussion about the topics the game covers. It's not just a game, it's a journey that will leave you with a lot to think about.
And while doing some quick last-minute research for this review, I discovered a Beholder 2! Beholder 3 is already out on nearly every console except Nintendo Switch. The release date is estimated for Early 2023. Stay tuned for a future review!
Total Gaming Time: 8+ hours
Games similar to Beholder: Children of Silentown, My Child Lebensborn, Beholder 2
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