Kathy Rain

Overview:
"Kathy Rain" is a point-and-click adventure game developed by Clifftop Games and published by Raw Fury. It was released in May 2016 and provides players with a nostalgic trip back to the classic adventure games of the 1990s, but with modern storytelling techniques and a richly atmospheric environment. The game is set in the 1990s and follows the journey of the titular character, Kathy Rain, a rebellious journalism student who returns to her hometown to investigate the mysterious death of her grandfather.

Visuals:
The game is very visually striking. Its hand-drawn art style combines pixel art with modern aesthetics to create an authentic 90s vibe. The environments are detailed and varied, ranging from the small-town streets to the dark interiors of Kathy's home. Each scene is filled with charming animations that enhance the immersive experience. The character designs are characterized by unique traits, and the animations convey emotions effectively, contributing to the storytelling.

Sound Design:
The soundtracks and sound effects of "Kathy Rain" are well done in capturing the mood and tone of the narrative. The voice acting is another high point, bringing the characters to life with a cast that is genuine in its performances, such as Kathy's sardonic humor and emotional depth.

Gameplay:
"Kathy Rain" uses old point-and-click mechanics with lots of puzzles the player must solve to progress with the storyline. The difficulty levels of these puzzles vary and are often hard, requiring careful observation and good exploration. Players should interact with the environment, gathering items that appear to have nothing to do with the puzzles they need to solve. Some puzzles often are a bit obtuse at times, yet the design of the game is adequately balanced so that there is a feel of full satisfaction when completed.

It offers the mechanic where Kathy writes in her journal to help write down clues but would also give the reader insight into her thoughts and feelings, which helps in developing her character within the narrative.

Narrative:
The core of "Kathy Rain" is its story, which is rich and compelling. The plot delves into themes of family, loss, and self-discovery. As Kathy investigates her grandfather's death, players are gradually drawn into a web of secrets that extend beyond her family's history. The characters are well-developed, each contributing to the narrative with their backstories and personal struggles. The dialogues are sharp and packed with wit, making interactions engaging and enjoyable.

The storyline does take some really unexpected turns, and the meshing of the supernatural elements with a grounded narrative makes for a really interesting experience.

Conclusion:
In summary, "Kathy Rain" is finely crafted in the point-and-click adventure genre, taking pride in an engaging storyline, lush visuals, and lovely characters. It brings the essence of 90s gaming into the modern world of storytelling. Fans of the genre should welcome thoughtful puzzles and an immersive world designed by Clifftop Games. Whether it's reliving the moment or experiencing it firsthand, "Kathy Rain" is a journey worth taking.

Rating: 8.5/10