Games worth discovering

The most adorable game you’ll play this month - Blanc Quick Review

13K View2023-02-15

PLAY IT OR SKIP IT?

Play it! Just don’t go in expecting something hardcore or super-challenging. Blanc is a gorgeous game that uses a lovely black-and-white art style to tell the story of two unlikely friends: a pitch-black wolf cub and a snowy white fawn. Whether playing co-op or controlling both creatures solo, these two must work together solving simple puzzles and building a bond that had me letting out an audible “awwww” over and over.

TIME PLAYED

I spent two lovely hours with Blanc this weekend and would have played more and completed the game if I hadn’t been running a fever at the same time. Judging by the Steam achievements, that two hours has me over halfway done with the game, so I wouldn’t expect too lengthy of a journey. That said, it might be perfect for getting together with a buddy or loved one and playing through in one sitting.

WHAT’S AWESOME

• Visuals. Come on, just look at these screenshots. Blanc looks absolutely stunning, providing a master class in how to make a game gorgeous without needing to use super-detailed assets. This game feels like playing inside of the black-and-white sketchbook of an absurdly talented artist.

• Solo and co-op support. In some ways Blanc feels built for co-op, seeing as it stars two characters who both need to make their way through the environment. However, I was impressed how developer Casus Ludi implemented a control scheme that makes solo play possible as well by essentially assigning one half of the controller (the left control stick and shoulder buttons) to the cub and the other half (the right control stick and shoulder buttons) to the fawn. It stretched out my brain a little when the two adorable creatures got on opposite sides of the screen, but the gameplay wasn’t so difficult as to make those moments frustrating.

• Simplicity. Like its stark art style, Blanc’s game design keeps things nice and clean. It doesn’t need to throw a ton of button combos or ways to interact with the world at players. You can run, jump, push, pull, and cut certain items, and that’s enough to make for a compelling journey that even younger or less experienced gamers can enjoy.

WHAT SUCKS

• Simplicity. Ok, I don’t actually think this sucks, and it’s obvious what the developers were intending. But I want to reiterate one more time that you shouldn’t go into Blanc expecting a ton of challenge or complexity. This game is much more about taking a relaxing, heartwarming journey than proving your hardcore gamer credentials. If that’s not for you, then consider yourself warned.

💬 Are you looking to squeal with delight as two cute forest creatures become buddies? Or will you be skipping Blanc instead? Leave a reply below and let me know!

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