The Beginner's Guide

[Eraser]

Has anyone experienced this? (consciously not using the word "played" here).

It's the latest release of Davey Wreden, the guy behind The Stanley Parable.
There's been a lot of talk about whether or not this is a game (especially in order to invalidate it's existence) but I feel that's a useless debate. I don't think the classic definition of "game" fits this experience, but that doesn't matter. The experience isn't any less meaningful because of it. Of course, The Stanley Parable wasn't as much a game in the classic sense either, so this may not come as a shock.

Anyway, The Beginner's Guide is a linear narrative, driven forward by Davey Wreden's narration, as himself. He tells you about his friend, named Coda, who one day began to create games. He never really finished or released these games and most of them were of a highly experimental nature. Davey guides you through each and every one of these games letting you experience them while giving his own views and thoughts about them. He attempts to paint a picture of the personality and the psyche of Coda through his games. As the games become more weird and out there, the tone becomes darker and darker and becomes about a man's struggle with loneliness, creativity and depression.

It may not sound like a very "fun" experience, and trust me, it isn't. It managed to strongly resonate with me on an emotional level though, and it tug a few heart strings here and there. And if you're any bit serious about these sorts of things, and looking for interactive computer experiences beyond brainless shooters like Call of Duty, then give this a try. The game is available for €8,99 on Steam, which you might consider a steep price considering it'll only last you for 1,5 hours but that's what a movie ticket will cost you as well. I initially watched the playthrough on YouTube (included below) in its entirety, but I ended up buying it just because, wow. It's just that I was actually emotionally moved by this game, something which very, very few titles manage.

[youtube]JyDFCPrUoI4[/youtube]

After "playing" the "game", or watching that YouTube video, read this blog post by Wreden to shed some light on what it's all about.

[MKJ]

I loved TSP, will check this out

[Eraser]

Don't make the mistake of expecting a lighthearted jovial experience like TSP was.

I think this title either resonates with you and you'll love the experience, or you'll think it's a pretentious bullshit piece and hate it. At least, that's the general divide I've seen between commenters on the big bad Internet.

[DooMer]

I think the twist saves it from being pretentious wank, IMO.

[Transient]

I totally saw the twist coming, and yet at the same time didn't expect it at all. Now I don't know what to feel; it's like I was tricked!