Released in 2016 for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, this title is an adventure exploration game set in June 1995. You step into the role of Kaitlin Greenbriar, a young woman returning home after a year abroad to an empty house. The Greenbriar family home on Arbor Hill is unsettlingly vacant, setting the stage for a mystery.

Core Gameplay

The gameplay centers around exploring the Greenbriar residence to uncover the reasons behind her family's absence. You examine objects, read notes and letters, and listen to audio logs, piecing together the story of the family's lives and relationships. The game emphasizes narrative and environmental storytelling, creating an immersive experience focused on character development and atmosphere rather than combat or traditional puzzles.

Story and Setting

The game unfolds through the environment and the personal effects left behind by the Greenbriar family. As Kaitlin, you explore every corner of the house, discovering clues that reveal the individual stories and the dynamics within the family. The setting of 1995 is integral to the narrative, influencing the technology, music, and cultural context of the story.

What makes the exploration unique?

The game distinguishes itself through its focus on environmental storytelling. There are no explicit instructions or objectives beyond exploring the house. The narrative emerges organically as you interact with the environment, making discoveries that gradually reveal the overarching story. This approach encourages close attention to detail and rewards curiosity.

Key Features

Exploration-based gameplay
Narrative-driven story
Environmental storytelling

Audience

This game appeals to players who enjoy narrative-focused experiences, exploration, and character-driven stories. It is well-suited for those who appreciate a slower pace and value atmosphere and immersion over action or puzzles.