Developed by ZNT Productions, and published by Ratalaika Games, Coralina takes a explorative text heavy approach to the psychological interpretation of one's skewed reality. Starring a trauma victim named Coralina who starts off her adventure in the company of cinema club friends at the local library she finds things quickly spiraling into madness as she takes an unexpected trip to Limbo wherein she tries to make sense of a grisly murder scene. Led by a mysterious talking crow Coralina traverses the labyrinths of Limbo interacting with key characters as she slowly comes closer to figuring out what the Hell is going on.
With light puzzle solving, and mostly interactive exploration the themes and plot of Coralina unfold as Coralina chats with NPCs, enters parallel worlds, encounters others' memories via doors, and treks forward to an open-ended conclusion. Her plight is one of a trauma induced reality shift leaving her unable to comprehend the visions she's being shown, and why it is she's being led on this afterlife inspired journey of discovery. Coralina, herself, seems to be a goth caught up in the college culture with a mixed circle of intellectual and creative friends that each add something different to her existence. With them murdered though, and unknowingly why Coralina must search for clues as she's guided towards an unseen destination.
At her disposal Coralina has a few abilities in this twisted tale of trauma. This includes the ability to run, interact with NPCs, inspect items, and even push blocks to help navigate the maze-like interior of Limbo. At points she can even input passwords needed to solve puzzles. As simplistic as this control scheme is the perplexing plot points more than make up for it.
The Presentation ...
Filled with pixel art, actual drawings, and animations Coralina comes off as a passion project with a message for it's audience. Through contrasting colors, set pieces, and an original soundtrack it conveys a sense of artistic mystery and psychological intrigue. All hinting at something much deeper and profound. All components come together like a puzzle each complimenting the other and fitting together in such a way as to reveal the bigger picture. Something that's brilliantly reflected in gameplay.
The Verdict ...
Coralina is obviously the inspired works of a developer deeply into the philosophical side of storytelling. Through their art, and simplified gameplay they are able to slow burn a curious story and characters into existence weaving what one would hope would reach it's climax by the end of the game. Sadly, the ending finishes with a cliffhanger note telling the gamer to expect a sequel that will carry the story forward. This may or may not deter those looking for a complete experience as the game's length is rather short and easy to play through in one session. It ends with too many questions left unanswered, but since there is a sequel in the works I can give it a passing recommendation. It is a game whose plot draws you in, hooks, and has you longing for the conclusion. Something I hope comes to fruition sooner rather than later. Give it a try if you are into art, and psychology as there's a lot to unravel in this reality bending murder mystery.
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