Contrast (PSN)

Compulsion Games, and Focus Home interactive take us on a video game journey so deeply involved that it's many layers reflect the Einstein theory that the gameplay is based upon. Like Einstein's theory of the multiverse the heart of the story at hand which involves a little girl, and her parents' dwindling relationship is explored in many different yet similar ways. Didi, the game's main protagonist, and her shadow traveling circus friend named Dawn traverse the worlds between light, and shadow in order to make sense of their broken reality, and ultimately make peace within Didi's broken psyche. In a way Didi's story borders both on psychological interpretation similar to the offerings in American McGee's "Alice: Madness Returns" as well as the metaphyiscal theories of other dimensions past our own, like an eerie episode of "The Twilight Zone". As you travel with Didi, and Dawn you'll unlock the secrets behind Didi, and her family as well as gain a peek into their world behind this fantasy of sorts. Through Didi's shared dialogue, and her interactions with the shadowy figures found within her fractured fairytale will ultimately become fully merged in a way that all can understand, if they only take the time to look beyond it's facade.

As short as the story behind Didi's peculiar fantasy world in "Contrast" is you'll find that the three acts, and several chapters included in it are filled with a massive amount of content that vastly surpasses that of most modern-day platforming experiences. The world Didi lives in is filled with amazing sights, locales, posters, and hidden imagery that will make you want to stop, and take the time to experience it all. While Didi's world is definitely filled with spectacularly engaging pieces of eye candy the core of the experience will be revealed even more so as you play through the game's many unique platforming based puzzles. In turn it is these intricate puzzles that will require you to use Dawn's skills of light, and shadow to conquer Didi's fears, and reunite her with her true family.


When it comes to playing the role of Dawn you'll find that 'Compulsion Games' have kept things simple yet effective. As one might guess Dawn has the ability to exist in both the light world as well as the shadow world. In the shadow world you'll be doing platforming in a 2D way, and in the world of the light you'll be traveling from place to place in a 3D oriented manner. In order to switch between the two worlds you simply need to press the "R2" at the appropriate place, and Dawn will shift between them. As simple as this mechanic may seem it is a little more complex than that though. Dawn can also use her powers to pass through thin shadow objects as well as carry objects from the light into the shadows, and vice versa in order to solve puzzles. You'll also find that you can move objects in the 3D world so that shadows will be cast in a certain way as to make previously inaccessible areas accessible.

A lot of your time in "Contrast" will be spent following Didi around as she tries to make things right between her parents as well as with her real father. Along the way you'll also find that as Didi's loyal friend your help will be required to access certain areas, and to fix things that are broken there. As straightforward as that may sound you'll find that you also need to collect glowing balls of light called Luminaires in order to activate a lot of the game's puzzle mechanisms. Some Luminaire based devices will require multiple Luminaires, so collecting them is definitely a must if you hope to complete the game.

In the worlds of "Contrast" there's plenty to do, and lots to explore as you try to make sense of the nonsensical plot at hand. Broken down circus rides, 20's era nightclubs, and excellent voice acting will keep you busy, and help to get your brain noodle ticking. Whether you're a grown adult, or a younger gamer you'll find many recognizable themes going on within Didi's, and Dawn's universe, and may even find them relative to your own. The more adult themes such as parental disputes, and custody battles are revisited time, and time again as Didi guides Dawn through her world. On a more lighthearted note you'll also find that the gameplay is as innocent in design as Didi herself making for an experience worthy of a younger gamers' attention. As such I see "Contrast" as being a noteworthy journey for adults, and children alike. It's one of those rare gaming experiences that happen around ever so often, allowing us to find something in common with imagination, and our own reality.

Now for the verdict ...

As of now this game is available for multiple platforms including Steam, PS3, PS4, and Xbox 360. If you haven't played it yet I highly suggest that you do so. It's worth the money, and most definitely worth your time. As far as platformers go it's about as innovative as it gets. The mix, and match of 2D and 3D puzzle solving will have you thinking overtime as you try to make it through the many chapters included in the game. Things like the soundtrack, and the visuals will keep you focused entirely on the gameplay at hand. I myself lost track of time as I spent a couple hours at a time playing through the game. This is definitely not a console exclusive folks, so don't miss out!