Lamplight City (Switch) Review
Release Date: June 2, 2022
Publisher/Developer: Grundslav Games/Application Systems Heidelberg
Platform: Nintendo Switch (reviewed), previously released on PC in 2018
Price: $14.99
Previously released on PC in 2018, Lamplight City is a unique point-and-click adventure set in an alternative Steampunk history in which you play as private investigator Miles Fordham, investigating a series of crimes that could potentially help him resolve the murder of his partner. The game differs from others in several ways. Firstly, it is played very straight-laced and more “realistic”, falling in line with it’s alternative history rather than trying to slap you with jokes left and right. Secondly, there is a complete lack of inventory, meaning no combining a rubber chicken with a stapler or what have you to figure out obtuse puzzles; Miles will simply utilize the inventory he needs when he needs it. Lastly, the storyline can branch based on how well you do. Players can paint themselves into a corner, dropping leads, forcing witnesses to clam up, and overall making cases unsolvable.
Despite being able to fall down an “unsolvable” case path, there is also a complete lack of fail states: no matter what you do you will find your way to the end, being lauded for your amazing detective skills or shunned into obscurity. In each case past the prologue, there are multiple threads to pull that can lead to a variety of potential suspects. These threads and possibilities walk a fine line between obscure and obtuse. Yes, it’s great to feel like you know EVERYTHING and figure out EVERY thread, but even real investigators will come across a witness that has a completely unpredictable reaction to a query that results in the loss of important information. This can mean several playthroughs may be needed before you get to see all of the endings. It’s up to you whether you see this as a blessing or a curse.
The lack of an inventory system means that gamers won’t have to rely on “pixel hunting” as happens in many games in this genre. In fact, in my Switch play, I have discovered that a single button click can show all the interactive environmental objects, helping you expedite your experience. A lot of the meat of the game comes in interviewing the suspects and witnesses. As you delve into questioning, suspects can appear pressed, and will abruptly end the conversation if spooked. These branching talks have threads that mean nothing to the conversation as well. The developers did a good job of creating a world that feels real in this instance. Detectives have to pull every thread to find the one worth following.
The pixel art, especially during interview sections, are very well done. They feel as if they belong in that classic genre, whilst also expressing emotion and excellent following of the voice lines. Voice work is well done and aplenty through the entire game, as Miles and his partner (whom, after his untimely demise in the prologue, becomes a narrator of sorts as Miles is either haunted by him or going insane. Overall, presentation is on point. Instead of an inventory, Miles keeps a notebook, with all information logically put in to help you find the solution.
Overall, Lamplight City is a wonderful game to curl up with like a good book on a lazy summer evening. The game is a wonderful combination that simplifies a lot of the complaints of the genre whilst opening new avenues to pick your brain. Multiple endings mean you have a chance to see more on a consecutive playthrough, but the touchy interview process means it’s kind of hard to hit that “perfect run” on the first play without the use of a walkthrough. It’s also a nice window on the world, shining a light on prejudices that can be prevalent in our modern society. Miles is burdened with the death of his partner, and it’s up to you to see if you can help him overcome his demons or fail to them and end up going insane.
Pros:
-Beautiful pixel artwork that shows emotions and depth
-No “game over” states, cases can end up unsolvable
Friendly user interface fixes many issues with the genre
Cons:
-Obtuse interviews can be turned cold unexpectedly
Special thanks to Grundslav Games/Application Systems Heidelberg for providing a code for review!