Introduction

Step into the fog-laden streets of 1924 San Francisco, where everyone’s a suspect, and even your intuition can’t be trusted. In 'A Case of Distrust', you are Phyllis Cadence Malone, a hard-nosed private investigator determined to unravel a murder mystery that’s thicker than a bowl of oatmeal. This indie title from Ben Wander serves up a satisfying detective experience with all the trimmings, albeit with some hiccups that might have you questioning your investigative instincts. Grab your magnifying glass, and let’s dive under this dark, narrative-driven, adventure game.

Gameplay

Gameplay revolves around investigating crime scenes and interrogating suspects to piece together the mosaic of murder. Players will explore various areas—feeling a bit like a noir detective in a black-and-white film, until you zoom in on living color—interacting with objects to gather evidence, which is equivalent to collecting Pokémon cards, only less cute and more morose. To engage in meaningful dialogue with suspects, you must wield a notebook like it’s your trusty sidearm, choosing options based on leads you have and contradictions you catch. The model follows a classic investigation formula: determine means, motive, and opportunity, then spring your trap by accusing the culprit. It’s thrilling, minus a few slow bits that feel less like the thrill of the chase and more like waiting for a dial-up connection.

Graphics

This game shines visually, albeit somewhat under a gritty veil. The art style, inspired by Saul Bass, is minimalist with sharp lines that evoke a retro flavor, as if it sprung straight from a noir comic book but stripped of its color palette. It’s charming in a stark way, capturing attention more than some of the plot twists. Yet, some may find its visual style a tad anachronistic, as it flirts with modernistic cues that could confuse a time traveler. Regardless, it’s no eyesore, and does a fantastic job creating that atmospheric noir vibe that fans of the genre adore.

Conclusion

A Case of Distrust is a worthy addition to the indie game library, providing an engaging narrative that will satisfy fans of mystery and noir. While it stumbles with occasional pacing issues and some investigation mechanics that grate on the nerves, it successfully crafts a vibrant world filled with memorable characters. The complex themes of female empowerment and social issues embody the spirit of the ‘20s, yet feel strangely relevant today. It’s not quite the masterpiece it aims to be, but it’s a solid game that’s worth your time. So, settle into your couch, pour yourself a dangerous concoction, and prepare for a digital sleuthing adventure with Phyllis—she’s waiting on you to help solve this delightful case of distrust.

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