Mind Inc

Have you ever wondered what happens to that little spark of inspiration (or remembrance) that jogs your memory? Mind Inc. answered that question for me but took it a step further by combining how the heart, body, and mind join together to rediscover precious forgotten moments. The game has a soft, relaxing feel to it with an unobtrusive background OST that isn't debilitating to the ears. In fact, the music changes often to fit with the overall vibe of the game's levels and each one is unique to the respective character's struggle. I loved being able to move the puzzle pieces around while navigating through the floors, and figuring out how to reach each one by accessing switches or feeling around walls for secret rooms. One issue that I ran into a few times was in trying to organize the tiles in how they were spaced around me when picked up, or accidentally dropping all the tiles when I was trying to just drop one. Nonetheless, it's our first day on the job so mistakes are bound to be made. What really surprised me was the subtle LGBT+ representation, and the way that emotions are connected through experiences between the characters. Two people perceiving the same memory would see it differently, and the game speaks to that while leaving a good amount of speculation for the player. The heart of the story is in the puzzles and what is found by listening to the respective human's Mind, and then seeing for yourself what the memory scattered across their mindscape is trying to convey. I was left with several impressions while putting together the pieces, connecting the pins between them, and recognizing how much love there is to be found in the quiet moments of joy. At the moment, there aren't any accessibility options included with the game. Players should be aware that there are subtle blinking elements to the tiles, but the colors are soft and there isn't a sound to accompany them. There are also various colors used for the tile pieces that may make it difficult to differentiate. All in all, the game left me with a feeling of needing to do something. Not something productive, or something worthwhile to someone else. But the need to go out and make memories of my own with people that I care about, or with myself. I believe the overall message of the game holds true - that you need to take things in moderation. Work is great and good, but working over your time when you're not receiving more pay OR when you're tired isn't going to benefit anyone in the long run. There are several small anecdotes between the characters that Players might feel resonation with based on burn out, someone asking you questions because they genuinely care, or just wanting to know more about yourself. For the audience that I'm trying to build, I recommend this game highly. It's fun, rather relaxing, and intends for you to either put it down when you need to or keep going if that's what YOU want. Although the game is called Mind Inc. it doesn't demand anything from you. If anything, it wants you to take care of yourself and embrace your way of living more than it wants to be played. There's no timers, no rush, no harried boss breathing down your neck. Just you, the desire to help others, and a grand experience.