Kathy Rain
Overview -
'Kathy Rain' is an AGS-built (Adventure Game Studio) point-and-click adventure from Clifftop Games, a very small Swedish operation. A key consideration for players young and old is that 'Kathy Rain' is very much a game set and styled in 90s.
Video Review
Clifftop’s artists have eked out just about as much as they could from the humble pixel. It is the hallmark of a bygone age and yet the indie gaming scene remains fascinated with it, perhaps because of its nostalgia. It has its limitations, but also its own kind of beauty. It also has benefits, like zero load times and a tiny install size, not to mention a smooth ride from start to finish.
Audio Review
The midi-style soundtrack complements the setting and style without becoming too stale or monotonous. Voice acting is spotty, but Kathy is excellent and that’s really what makes the difference.
Final Thoughts
It’s not every day that a video game surprises me, and that is exactly what’s happened here. 'Kathy Rain' is engrossing for nearly all of its admittedly modest running time, even when it takes quirky trips into left field. It may wear its inspirations on its sleeve, but that makes it no less likeable or entertaining.