Washed up on a beach, a young child in a tattered red cloak surveys the world around them. A bright and sunny island greets them, and their focus is inexplicably drawn to a large tower in the center. This is where Rime (stylized RiME) starts, and without saying a word, you set off to explore the unfamiliar, yet nonthreatening surroundings. Rime immediately asks a series questions that incite a search for answers. What is this island" What is the tower" Who is this child in the red cloak and why were they lying face down on a beach" Those answers are discovered, and yet throughout Rime, nary a word is spoken.
Rime’s story is presented simply and effectively, using visual cues to fuel the search for answers and to encourage an emotional connection with the narrative. It’s paced in such a way that it never feels like there are long, dull stretches without intrigue. The pseudo open world has a variety of nooks and crannies begging for exploration, and certain elements in the environment won’t become clear until a second play through. Changes to the setting are frequent as you solve puzzles and move forward, keeping a particular level of curiosity piqued, while also being central to the themes that each section of Rime delivers. Even if it’s not apparent while playing, the ending makes everything clear and made me immediately want to replay, not only to discover additional secrets hidden on the island, but to also make the journey with the...