Considering the real-life tragedy surrounding the development of Afterlove EP, it would have been easy to forgive developer Pikselnesia for not moving forward with work on the title. To its credit, it’s powered forward and delivered a poignant, prescient experience worth your time.
You play Rama, a musician who returns to his bandmates after a yearlong absence in which he was trying – and largely failing – to come to terms with the sudden and tragic loss of his partner. You’re tasked with reintegrating into your friend’s lives, starting the band back up, and attending to your mental health. The writing is great, dealing with heavy themes respectfully, even if the nuance and subtly waver on occasion.
Mechanically this is accomplished through overworld navigation reminiscent of Persona – without combat, of course. Friends will be at certain spots at certain times and you can’t do everything in one day. Throw in a sprint button and a solid fast travel system, and Afterlove EP’s navigation is a breeze.
The rhythm gameplay doesn’t fare quite as well. While visually excellent – notes and how to play them are clear and concise – the hitboxes for the notes are all over the place. Some register too early, others too late, sustains will drop out mid-note for no reason, it’s all rather a mess. The interactive musical sequences don’t show up often enough to ruin things, however.
The game’s music is excellent as well. The background music evokes Akira Yamaoka and accompanies the world brilliantly. But your band – Sigmund Feud, a great name – makes good music, too. Weaving amidst the aether of shoegaze, emo, and post-rock, the musical acts are great to listen to, if not to play.
The game ultimately has strong, important messages about loss and mental health. Add in some great music and wonderful navigation, and it becomes difficult not to recommend Afterlove EP despite its rough edges.
