A Space for the Unbound is a truly magical experience. And is perhaps one of the more beautiful pixel art video games in recent memory.
The game was developed by Mojiken Studio and produced by Toge Productions, two indie studios from Indonesia. Which, if you are unaware, is a country exploding with creativity.
I would be remiss if I didn’t draw comparisons to some of my favorite games of late: Eastward, Inmost, Goodbye World.
Sure, it’s mostly due to the gorgeous pixel art. But also because these are all games that tell beautiful human stories through the medium of retro inspired video games.
A Space for the Unbound is a strong contender to be on the list of best contemporary pixel art games. It’s also one of the most beautiful stories told through a video game.
A Space for the Unbound
The story of A Space for the Unbound revolves around Atma (the boy) and Raya (the girl) in the late 90’s.
And though it is a game that is set in Indonesia, it is giving us all of the feels of many of our favorite Japanese anime.
The art style is light and quite breathtaking at times, but the story hits some pretty serious notes. And this is a game that most definitely could make a grown man cry. Not me though. I’m too tough to cry.
A Space for the Unbound offers a little of everything that I love… great pixel art, a heartfelt story, slice of life, mystery, magic, action, and perhaps best of all: petting cats.
The game play is a mix between dialogue, exploration, puzzle, and light combat.
And not much in the game offers a severe challenge. Which is kind of what I hope for in a game of this style. I prefer to just explore the story.
Admittedly, some of the puzzles can be a bit odd and confusing. But the reward for progressing is incredibly high. So it’s all worth it, trust me.
Conclusion
A Space for the Unbound is a one of a kind gaming experience.
It will be appreciated by anybody looking for something to tug at your heartstrings, or for those who like to see some of the most impressive pixel art.
Whether you play the eight hour experience yourself or just watch someone else do it… it’s something you absolutely must check out.
The game is quite an achievement for a small indie studio, and is the result of many years of hard work. You can tell they really put their hearts into this project.
A Space for the Unbound released on January 19, 2023 and is available for Windows, MacOS, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch.
Anthony has been a video game lover ever since he can remember. He became a fulltime nomad in 2018, living throughout most of Asia. He focused his passion in retro gaming and began creating a game for the Game Boy Color while living in Nara, Japan during the 2020 pandemic. He is now in Chiang Mai, Thailand, where he spends most of his time gaming, going on long walks and meeting as many stray dogs as possible.
