Open Roads: A Familiar Journey of Coming of Age

There are moments in Open Roads that hit close to home for many players. The game follows 16-year-old Tess on an interactive road trip with her mother, Opal, in a vintage station wagon. The dynamic between Tess and her mother resonates with nostalgia and parental authority, making the story relatable and engaging. However, the adventure falls short due to hastily resolved conflicts and a lack of mystery.

The Emotional Journey

Set against the backdrop of grief and economic uncertainty following Tess’s grandmother’s passing, Open Roads explores the complexities of family dynamics. Tess’s relationship with her distant father and resilient mother is portrayed convincingly by Hollywood leads, Keri Russell and Kaitlyn Dever. The emotional depth of the characters shines through, drawing players into their journey from the start.

A Visual and Emotional Experience

Open Roads’ art style combines hand-drawn 2D characters with detailed 3D environments, creating a unique and dreamlike world. The attention to detail, from imperfections to subtle movements like swaying trees, enhances the sense of solitude and peace throughout the game.

Unraveling Family Secrets

As Tess uncovers her grandmother’s mysterious past through a collection of relics, players are taken on a journey of exploration and discovery. The game thrives on rummaging through forgotten dioramas, each filled with clues that piece together a generational family mystery. While some aspects may feel repetitive, standout items and environmental storytelling keep players engaged.

Exploring Past and Present

Players engage in light puzzle-solving to uncover the past and understand the family’s history. As the story unfolds, themes of childhood trauma and hidden truths come to light, adding layers of intrigue and emotion to the narrative. Interactions with objects prompt Tess’s introspection and meaningful conversations with her mother, deepening the connection to the characters and their shared history.

A Muted Climax

Despite the game’s immersive world and engaging storytelling, the climax may leave players wanting more. Dialogue options often lead to similar outcomes, diminishing the impact of player choice. Heavy topics like mental health are touched upon but not fully explored, leading to a safe and somewhat disappointing resolution that lacks the raw humanity found in the rest of the game.