Review of Bloom & Rage: Lost Records

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage, crafted by the innovative team responsible for the original Life is Strange, draws players into a captivating narrative adventure. Those familiar with Don’t Nod’s previous creations will find themselves comfortably immersed in Velvet Cove, Michigan. The small-town ambience is artfully depicted, and while the overarching story may falter, the characters easily steal the spotlight. It’s a slow-burn tale that somehow keeps you gripped with its engaging drama and enjoyable interactions.

In the game, you step into the shoes of Swann, a teenage girl grappling with questions about her identity and her environment. Introverted by nature, Swann has a passion for movies, both as a viewer and a creator. Initially resigned to her lack of close friends, her world shifts when she encounters a group of girls who come to her aid against a bully. This fateful meeting becomes the catalyst for a life-changing journey.

### The Plot Holds Back the Characters

Fast forward to 2022, and Swann returns to the town that shaped her teenage years, specifically revisiting 1995. Summoned back by her friend Autumn, who finds a mysterious parcel addressed to their old band, Bloom & Rage, the reunion takes them down memory lane, evoking the events of that pivotal summer. As they attempt to piece together what transpired, the player experiences the narrative through Swann’s eyes, oscillating between past and present.

Swann and her friends Nora, Autumn, and Kat form a compelling band of misfits with whom many players will resonate. Each brings a unique energy to the dynamic, which serves as the heart of the game. Swann, the nerdy loner among them, unexpectedly forms deep bonds with her peers just months before her impending move to Canada. Determined to make every moment of the summer count, they dive into the world of punk rock, discover secret hideaways, and savor their time together. Among this close-knit circle, Swann begins to find her voice, a transformation that infuses her narrative with joy.

Oddly, the summer of 1995 is depicted with far more intrigue than the present day, where the women gather around the enigmatic box, ponder its implications, yet pass their time drinking and playing pool. This mysterious package is meant to be significant, hinting at past traumas. Yet, by the end of Tape 1, its true importance remains elusive. The 2022 setting feels sidelined by the more arresting tale of the past, leaving some elements of the story less compelling.

### Collectibles Make the World Feel Alive

Despite this discrepancy, the world itself pulsates with life just as richly as its characters. Dotted with nostalgic references, it becomes a treasure trove for those who cherish the 90s. The game’s collectibles aren’t merely items you pick up—they are captured through Swann’s camcorder. From heartfelt conversations to scenic vistas and local wildlife, players record moments in time. Immersing yourself in these elements with a good set of headphones enhances this sensory journey.

The camcorder, a dual-purpose tool in Swann’s adventures, functions as both flashlight and viewpoint changer, giving the player a grainy, square-view format reminiscent of old cameras. PlayStation 5 users can enjoy added interactivity through DualSense’s motion control features, enriching the immersive experience. This thoughtful inclusion by Don’t Nod allows you to fully inhabit Swann’s perspective, an aspect that stands out as one of the game’s highlights.

### The Supernatural Isn’t So Super

Velvet Cove harbors secrets, but Lost Records: Bloom & Rage leaves players guessing, almost reluctant to reveal its mysteries. Initially, you might wonder if the supernatural elements are figments of the girls’ collective imagination. However, as peculiar events unfold, it becomes clear there’s more at play, demanding further elaboration.

This cryptic narrative aspect can frustrate more than it thrills, as players find themselves with little to guide them toward answers. Despite living Swann’s life, the feeling lingers that the characters are withholding vital secrets. With themes of curses, rock music, and blood pacts teasing something bigger, the gap between Tape 1 and its sequel could potentially lose players’ interest due to the lack of immediacy in resolution.

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage struggles to escape the shadow of Life is Strange despite its attempts at originality. It’s hard to ascertain whether Don’t Nod will resolve the loose ends and fulfill the ambitious groundwork set in the first half of the game. The narrative paths feel underdeveloped, with dialogue choices lacking real consequence.

In conclusion, while Lost Records: Bloom & Rage offers a mesmerizing character study, it ultimately falls short of a fully cohesive plot. With an ending that leaves much to be desired, it’s uncertain if players will eagerly anticipate the continuation set for release on April 15. Yet, hope remains that the upcoming segments could weave together their richly realized characters into a tapestry that justifies the journey.