Yesika didn’t like The Stanley Parable. What did you think?
The last independent game I played was Gone Home and I loved it. Now, there’s this game I keep hearing about called The Stanley Parable. I’m a big fan of interactive fiction, so I thought: “why not give this a shot?”
I bought it on Steam and I was really excited to play it. Consequently, I pressed ‘play’ and a couple of minutes later, I wished I bought Chinese take-out with the $12 I spent instead.
Before I give my reasons for being disappointed, I don’t want this to seem like I’m discouraging indies for trying new things but you can’t please everyone. Some people will like it, while others won’t.
This game did not appeal to me and I hope this post will help you decide if this game is something you would be able to enjoy.
The Stanley Parable starts out with the titular character Stanley stuck in his mundane job when he notices that everyone in his office has disappeared. As you go on, a narrator describes your actions and what you are expected to do. Of course, it is totally possible to deviate from the narrator’s wishes and listen to him express his frustration at your insubordination.
The game branches out to a variety of scenarios depending on which path you take. It makes you question the nature of free will and choice in a video game. Sometimes it can be entertaining as well, but I found myself bored in the end.
I totally get the concept and what they are trying to convey with this game, but it wasn’t for me. It’s like acknowledging that a dish is delicious, but you prefer to spend your time and money on something that fits your taste more.
Basically, this game is not for you’re not too fond of the experimental type. I also got bored with how much the narrator spoke throughout the game. There are times when I am just doing nothing and listening to him. Obviously, stay away if you’re a more action oriented type of gamer.
This type of game wields a narrative that mashes your brain. Sure, Memento melted mine with its insane plot but at least that had a conclusion in the end while The Stanley Parable simply explores different scenarios.
Interestingly, this game sold 100,000 copies since its release on October 17th. A port for the OS X is currently in development as well, but a date was not specified.
What did you think of this game?
