Review of Lost Records: Bloom & Rage [Tape 1]

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage is a compelling narrative adventure crafted by the acclaimed creators of the original Life is Strange. Players familiar with Don’t Nod’s previous offerings are likely to find themselves right at home in the enchanting yet complex world of Velvet Cove, Michigan. This small-town backdrop is vividly illustrated, boasting a diverse cast of characters whose interactions often overshadow the central storyline. While the game unfolds at a deliberately slow pace, it captivates players with its emotional drama and moments of levity.

Players step into the shoes of Swann, a high school girl grappling with her identity and the intricacies of her environment. A self-described loner, Swann has an affinity for cinema, indulging in both observing films and documenting her own. Initially resigned to a solitary life, her world turns upside down upon meeting a group of girls who rally to help her confront a bully. This serendipitous encounter ultimately reshapes her entire existence.

The Plot Holds Back the Characters

Fast forward to 2022, where Swann returns to her adolescence in Velvet Cove, with her friend Autumn requesting her presence due to the arrival of a mysterious package intended for their former band, Bloom & Rage. As they reconnect, reminiscent tales of a fateful summer in 1995 resurface, reflecting on a time they vowed never to revisit. Their hazy memories of that summer compel the player to navigate the juxtaposition of the past and present through Swann’s eyes.

The dynamic quartet of Swann, Nora, Autumn, and Kat offers a relatable portrayal of misfits that many players are sure to resonate with. Each character introduces a unique flavor to the narrative, highlighting the true essence of Lost Records: Bloom & Rage. As Swann navigates her impending move to Canada, her connection deepens with the girls, transforming their summer into an unforgettable adventure filled with punk rock music, secret hideouts, and cherished moments together. This burgeoning friendship allows Swann to discover her voice, bringing her immense joy throughout the story.

However, the tension of 1995 in Lost Records: Bloom & Rage surpasses the more subdued present in which the women gather at a bar, pondering the significance of the mysterious package that drew them back together. Despite their apparent concern for its implications, they pass the time socializing, playing pool, and reminiscing without ever directly addressing the box or the secrets it holds. This dynamic foreshadows a pivotal traumatic event, but even as the first segment draws to a close, the narrative lacks the depth or revelation regarding the box that players might desire. Consequently, the modern storyline seems less engaging compared to the vibrant happenings of the past, leading to an unbalanced experience.

Collectibles Make the World Feel Alive

Fortunately, the environment is as richly rendered as its characters. For players nostalgic for the 1990s, numerous collectibles pepper the landscape, enhancing their experience as they explore. Instead of simply amassing items, players capture fleeting moments using Swann’s camcorder, which can encompass anything from conversations to natural landscapes or wildlife. This immersive exploration invites players to absorb the world’s intricate details and ambiance, making Lost Records: Bloom & Rage best enjoyed with a headset or in a serene environment.

The camcorder serves as a fascinating narrative device, functioning not only as a flashlight but also as a way to perceive the world through Swann’s unique perspective. When utilized, the imagery takes on a grainy aesthetic, mimicking the feel of viewing through a traditional viewfinder. Additionally, players on PlayStation 5 can utilize the DualSense controller’s motion functionality to manipulate the camera, heightening the immersive experience as they step into Swann’s world.

The Supernatural Isn’t So Super

Something peculiar lurks within Velvet Cove, yet Lost Records: Bloom & Rage seems reluctant to fully reveal the mystery. Initially, the supernatural occurrences appear as mere figments of the characters’ vivid imaginations. Nevertheless, certain bizarre events arise that demand further clarification.

This frustrating ambiguity detracts from the enjoyment, as the narrative teases secrets without offering sufficient clues. Instead of guiding players toward answers, it creates a sense that the characters harbor undisclosed truths, even as players experience events through Swann’s perspective. Themes of curses, rock music legends, and blood pacts build anticipation, yet the slow pacing could risk alienating gamers eager for resolution during the waiting period between the release of parts one and two.

While the initial chapters of Lost Records: Bloom & Rage strive to establish a new beginning for its characters, the game struggles to liberate itself from the echoes of Life is Strange. Without revealing the complete picture, it’s challenging to assess whether Don’t Nod will deliver on the many promises hinted at in the game’s first half. Though branching choices exist, they currently lack impactful significance, and dialogue paths feel pleasantly superficial in consequence.

In conclusion, Lost Records: Bloom & Rage presents an uneven journey where the characters shine brighter than the overarching plot. With a concluding twist that fails to fully satisfy and illuminate the broader narrative mysteries, it’s difficult to envision players eagerly anticipating the second segment, scheduled for release on April 15. Nonetheless, there remains hope that the forthcoming chapters could deepen character development and transform this uneven start into a captivating narrative arc.

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