It’s been awhile since I last played a video game, and Inkle Studios’ “80 Days” lured me once again into the world of interactive fiction. The storytelling and narrative of the video game captivated me because I was so invested into how players must explore a thoroughly detailed world that would impact the outcome of the story — a huge contrast to other video games whose main priorities are strategy, action, or competition. The steampunk setting of the video game is refreshing and engaging and gives justice to Jules Verne’s novel “Around the World in Eighty Days.” Like the captivating writing of Verne, the video game’s narrative is composed by proficient writers who transports players to an alternative world through their vibrant descriptions and entertaining dialogue. Replayability is also not a problem since there are multiple branching storylines I could choose from; the outcomes would always be different.
There are several lessons I acquired from playing “80 Days,” such as time management and planning, resource management, decision-making and problem-solving, consequences of choices, and empathy and social skills. As I played “80 Days,” there is a strong emphasis on thorough planning with schedules and routes since travel time is important and whether there is an available location and unforeseen events that would hinder my progress. Managing my inventory and finances were also crucial because I needed to decide what objects I should buy and sell and how I could allocate my money in order to circumnavigate the world. “80 Days” further reminded me that there are consequences of choices, both short and long-term. But most importantly, “80 Days” made me surprisingly more empathetic as I engaged with other characters through conversations and decision-making. The storytelling element of the game did not only make it engaging for me to play the game; it made me appreciate the importance of rich character development. The characters’ personalities, backgrounds, and motivations added depth to the narrative.
But most importantly, “80 Days” was captivating due to the thrilling moments and encounters in the playthroughs. Aside from battling against time as I attempt to navigate the world in 80 days, there are also unpredictable events like mechanical fiascos and natural disasters that kept me on my toes. I also have to make many high-stakes decisions, which would have dramatically impacted the entire playthrough. For instance, should I aid another traveler who needs help or should I solely focus on my progress? But it does not get more thrilling when there are exotic transportations involved, such as the mechanical camels and the airship I rode over the Alps. Or when there are venturesome confrontations and escapes from escaping a ship that is becoming submerged or air pirates who hijacked the vessel. I’m in awe every single time because I am brought to mysterious sites that are lesser-known — whether it’d be inside hidden temples, underground cities, or isolated Arctic outposts.
All of these game elements in “80 Days” heavily contribute to the replayability of TIME Magazine’s Game of 2014 and the winner of the “Excellence in Narrative” award at the 2015 IGF Awards ceremony. “80 Days” captivates players with its immersive storytelling, strategic decision-making, diverse characters, and engaging exploration, offering an unforgettable gaming journey.
