ibb & obb: Nuance in a Complex World
For now, we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.
~I Corinthians 13:12 (KJV)~
Developer: Sparpweed, Codeglue
Publisher: Sparpweed
Release Date: May 26, 2016
ESRB Rating: E
Price: $11.99 (May Vary)
Brief Synopsis:
The world isn’t as clear cut as we thought it was in this entertaining world of endless side scrolling puzzles. Played as either a single-player game or co-op the main objective appears to be pretty simple, all you have to do is to cross the other side of the level moving from left to right. However, a thin line that runs across the screen separates the 2D world, which means that only certain players are able to enter or exit a certain zone. In addition altered gravity and physics, based on what side of the line you are on, challenges individuals to think outside of the box in order to navigate the level and collect the small coins that drop from various obstacles.
Reflection:
This game is probably best enjoyed with a friend. I know that I have spent countless hours playing with friends and enjoying the countless mistakes we had made or the various hijinks that occurred when trying to communicate what we wanted the other person to do. Luckily the game is not that punishing and lends itself to create memorable times with friends while building up a sense of teamwork and cooperation.
What struck me was how much this game force you to think. Trying to figure out puzzles on a map that operated with different laws of physics challenged me to find solutions that were outside the boxes of conventional wisdom I had made for myself. Usually, the path to success was only found after being willing to experiment countless times and being open to learning from failure and past mistakes. (I should also mention that this game also helps develop a sense of patience.)
Every time I play this game the passage of Scripture at the top of the page always comes to mind. The poetic words of the Paul in the KJV remind us that “for now, we see through a glass, darkly.” But what does it mean to look through a glass darkly? And how does playing a video game remind you of this Scripture passage?
Throughout playing this game I was invited to think about the world differently. Throughout playing this game I was invited to interact with a 2D world that questioned the standard conventions of the world as we know it. Playing this game was a reminder that God often surprises us at times when we least expect it. Because we focus so intently on what we know we forget to keep our hearts and minds open to what we still don’t understand.
While such theological or philosophical questions are not raised while playing the game they are still good questions to consider. Overall, I highly recommend this game for people who are looking for a casual gaming experience. It is very child-friendly and a great option for spending time with friends who live far away.