Until Then (Demo Review): A Must-Play for Filipino Gamers
Until Then, a game developed by Modus Games in collaboration with Philippine studio Polychroma Games is set to release this year. You step into the shoes of Mark, a typical Filipino student navigating the joys and challenges of high school life in the Philippines.
Gameplay and Nostalgia
The demo starts with a smooth introduction to the controls (WASD for movement, space for next, and mouse for interaction).
As a Filipino myself, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia upon starting the demo. The sounds of tricycles, roosters, and even that early-morning sweeper instantly transported me back to my school days.
The relatable experience of scrambling to prepare for a presentation, the daily commute, and casual lunch-break conversations with friends brought a smile to my face.
Emotionally Engaging Story
I didn’t expect to be so hooked and emotionally invested. What seemed like a standard demo unfolded into a captivating narrative filled with dialogue and text message exchanges between Mark and his friends. I found myself engrossed in every message, almost feeling like I was peering into someone’s real phone.
This isn’t just your typical student story. The demo subtly hints at deeper mysteries within the full game, and some scenes even made me empathize with Mark as if I were there with him. The ending left me wanting more, and I have no doubt the full game will satisfy that curiosity.
Vivid Audio-Visuals
The game exudes a charming 90s vibe. The sounds are meticulously crafted to create an authentic Philippine experience. At times, the atmosphere evoked the feeling of watching an anime, and I loved the overall ambiance.
The pixel art, while intentionally retro, manages to capture realistic details, enhancing the immersive experience. The musical score amplifies the emotional impact of certain moments, further strengthening my connection to both Mark and his friends.
Is Until Then a good game?
While primarily an ode to the “good old days” of school-related worries, Until Then hints at a deeper underlying narrative. The demo leaves players intrigued and guessing about what awaits Mark, adding to the game’s appeal.
Filipino gamers will undoubtedly find a relatable experience, while non-Filipino players will gain a glimpse into Philippine life. I genuinely believe that Until Then offers an enriching experience and is worth checking out.
JC Paredes
Since March 2021, I've worn two hats at Spiel Times: a writer and a Managing Editor. In my writing role, I've earned recognition from Wikipedia and Nev Schulman (Catfish TV Show host) for my insightful analysis and engaging narrative style. I'm passionate about all things gaming, with a keen eye for detail and a knack for uncovering hidden secrets within games. My gaming journey began at a young age, captivated by titles like Resident Evil and Tomb Raider. Today, I enjoy exploring open-world RPGs and MMORPGs, consumed by their lore and crafting theories about their narratives. I'm also drawn to the suspenseful atmosphere of horror games and the intricate narratives of crime-themed titles, bringing a unique perspective to my writing. Beyond gaming, I have a fascination with anything unexplained and chilling, a passion that often spills over into my exploration of horror games. When I'm not engrossed in a virtual world, you can find me curled up and spending time with my adorable doggy sidekick, Teemo. As Managing Editor, I'm committed to fostering a collaborative and supportive environment for our writing team. I communicate openly with my team members, addressing any content-related issues and providing guidance to help them excel.
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