Soundtrack of my life

French developer Nova-box has announced that its next title will be the interactive dramaAcross the Grooves. Set in a universe of “magic-realism” and with a heavy emphasis on music,Across the Grooveswill follow the story of a young woman named Alice and her journey of self-discovery. It seems to be very methodical and surreal, which is certainly how I like my narratives.

Featuring hand-drawn illustrations and an adaptive score,Across the Groovescould be quite the trip. I’m particularly intrigued by the idea of branching paths coming about through music, which makes me wonder what interactivity will be available. It’s a little too early to discuss thing like that, as Nova-box has only uploaded a trailer and included aSteam store page for wish listing. The game is currently targeting an early 2020 release date on PC.

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While many bemoan the rise of digital distribution and its impact on video game preservation, there is one niche of gaming that has grown from it: interactive dramas. Thanks to lower publishing costs for going with Steam or Epic, titles likeDear Esther,Gone Home, or evenThe Lion’s Songhave been able to flourish in a way that never would have happened in the 00s. IfAcross the Groovescan continue in the legacy of those games, then I welcome it.

The ghost at the end of the hallway

Picking up the smiley face post-it off the broken mirror

John and Molly sitting on the park bench

Close up shot of Marissa Marcel starring in Ambrosio

Kukrushka sitting in a meadow

Lightkeeper pointing his firearm overlapped against the lighthouse background

Overseer looking over the balcony in opening cutscene of Funeralopolis

Edited image of Super Imposter looking through window in No I’m not a Human demo cutscene with thin man and FEMA inside the house

Looking at the ghost of Jackie inside the lighthouse