Glitchhikers: The Spaces Between

Two big thumbs up while sipping an old fashioned from a comfy chair.

When speaking with people outside of video game circles, or students new to computer science, etc., I present a list of "must play video games." These aren't necessarily the big blockbuster titles, but are representatives of what could be done with games that couldn't be done in other mediums. "What makes games more special than movies or books? What pushes the state of the art, from a philosophical or artistic perspective?" This game clearly makes the list.

Glitchhikers: The Spaces Between is an enthralling, creative work of art that challenges gaming stereotypes, subverts tropes, and ushers thoughtful introspection. If you give this title room to breathe, it will transport you to a new plane with chill beats guiding you every step of the way. Some games are junk food, and I enjoy them too, but this game is pure poetry.

Though the execution is clearly indie, and not everybody's cup of tea, I think this actually lends to the narrative and connects us (the audience) with the authors in a more direct fashion. I feel like I'm playing through the thoughts and the feelings of the developers directly, and not playing with a homogenized, watered-down hundred-person-team effort.

I want all my friends to play this so we can share a drink and discuss it together.

Nice presentation, but philosophically, it's an inch deep.

I find myself coming back Glitchhikers at critical junctures in my life. I've played it after the most difficult set of finals I've ever taken, after getting diagnosed with a chronic illness, after the death of a pet, among other times. This isn't the kind of game I pick up casually whenever or play for a long time. It's more like the moment I get to exhale after holding my breath.

The various journeys you go on and travelers you meet are diverse, but all consistent enough in tone that you always know playing will be relaxing and contemplative. There are travelers I've found I've responded differently to at various points in my life, and travelers I've found I always agree with in the same ways. This game feels like having an infrequent but important conversation with an old friend.

If you're looking for a game to sink a lot of time into, explore the entirety of, or 100%, I don't know that this is exactly the game you're looking for - but you're welcome to try it out anyways. I think this game is exactly the right game for you if you're seeking a quiet moment, would like to think over some things you maybe haven't (or maybe have) thought about at length before, or are looking for a really chill game that will let you drive a car at night infinitely. I love the infinite drive feature. Whatever it is you end up looking for, I hope you find it.