“I’ll remember you, even after I die.”
This powerful quote from Lost Records: Rage and Bloom encapsulates the essence of Don’t Nod’s latest release. The game dives deep into the melodrama and complexities of adolescence, capturing the paradoxical desire for individuality while yearning for understanding and acceptance. Over the course of its eight-hour narrative, players witness the interplay of youthful insecurity and conviction, exploring how fleeting summer moments can feel both eternal and fragile—an emotional reflection on the teenage experience.
Lost Records stands out not merely as a nostalgia trip but also weaves an eerie supernatural mystery that unfolds over nearly three decades. This compelling narrative centers on four women drawn together by dark events from their past, where unearthing forgotten truths leads to violence and haunting revelations. With dynamic characters, stunning visuals, intricate character modeling, and a captivating atmosphere, Lost Records marks a significant achievement in Don’t Nod’s portfolio.
Set against the backdrop of two time periods—summer ’95 and two years into the COVID-19 pandemic—the story follows Swann Holloway, a shy movie enthusiast, as she revisits unsettling memories from her youth. The narrative kicks off when Swann’s childhood friend, Autumn, reaches out with alarming news: someone knows their secrets and sends them a cryptic package. Despite decades of silence—its reasons unfolding as the plot advances—Autumn invites Swann and their other friends, Nora and Kat, to return to their hometown, Velvet Cove, to confront the looming threat.
This initial setup draws players in, sparking curiosity about the characters’ lost connections and the dark events that shaped their lives. While some might find the slower pace challenging, this methodical storytelling enhances the intrigue, blending everyday activities with breadcrumbs of mystery that compel players to delve deeper into the narrative. The story resonates with unexpected eeriness, from discovering a cabin adorned with cryptic symbols to grappling with unsettling paranormal occurrences.
In the first part of the game, players step into Swann’s shoes during her last summer in Michigan before moving to Canada. It quickly becomes apparent that Swann is a loner who finds comfort in movies, nature, and her beloved pet cat, preferring solitude over social interaction. However, her life changes dramatically when she connects with Autumn and Nora, her future bandmates, along with the spirited Kat. With her impending move hanging over her, Swann seizes this precious time to forge friendships and joins their band, Bloom and Rage, as their music video director. The four girls create unforgettable memories during their last summer together, chronicling their adventures through Swann’s camcorder.
In keeping with Don’t Nod’s hallmark choice-driven gameplay, players’ decisions shape the game’s events and character relationships. The camcorder serves as a unique interactive tool, allowing players to capture significant moments. While Lost Records might feel more linear compared to previous titles, the camcorder’s creative objectives add a personal touch, encouraging players to immerse themselves in Swann’s journey.
Additionally, players will find themselves relating to Swann and her friends, as their experiences echo elements of many childhoods. From nostalgic recollections of personal childhood items to heartfelt moments of connection and vulnerability, the game’s depth and artistry resonate on multiple levels. Swann’s insecurities and her genuine love for capturing meaningful moments reflect the universal struggles of adolescence, making it an authentic and relatable experience.
As Swann’s relationships develop, players witness her growing confidence, underscoring how friendships can empower. The game’s writing shines through its nuanced exploration of real-life dynamics, evoking memories that surpass superficial nostalgia. Lost Records masterfully balances the dreamy quality of adolescence with grounded realism, crafting a captivating atmosphere complemented by an exceptional soundtrack that underlines the entire experience.
Ultimately, Lost Records offers a poignant and layered depiction of adolescence that resonates far beyond typical coming-of-age storytelling. As it tackles themes of self-discovery and personal growth, it challenges outdated perceptions of women in their 40s, delivering a fresh and meaningful narrative. With its anticipated second installment set to release this April, Lost Records: Rage and Bloom has already positioned itself as one of Don’t Nod’s standout titles. The success of the narrative hinges on the answers and actions to come, but confidence remains high that this compelling journey will stick the landing.
