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Review of Backbone on Nintendo Switch

by Gemma Looksby Gemma Looksby photo Feb 2022
Cover image of Backbone on Switch
Gamefings Score: 8
Platform: Switch Switch logo
Released: 09 Feb 2022
Genre: Role-playing
Developer: EggNut
Publisher: Raw Fury

Introduction

In a world where raccoons are not just dumpster-diving nuisances but also private detectives (seriously, who would've thought?), "Backbone" offers a noir tale filled with anthropomorphic drama and some really avant-garde animation. Forget Sherlock Holmes; we've got Howard Lotor, a raccoon with the investigative skills of a cat with a ball of yarn. Buckle up for a bizarre journey through a dystopian Vancouver, where the trash is endless, but the mysteries are even deeper.

Gameplay

You step into the sleek, striped paws of Howard Lotor like a detective in a trench coat who just raided a thrift store. Your task? Solve a mystery plugged harder than a bad infomercial. The game plays out in a classic adventure format: point-and-click exploration, interspersed with 'oh-crap-I-need-to-remember-those-letters' puzzle-solving. The dialogue is richer than your mom's lasagna, featuring discussions about societal injustices, personal tragedy, and, of course, how to get rid of pesky raccoons (not that Howard would know, right?). The choices you make? They actually matter. Good luck keeping your raccoon detective's reputation intact, because let's be honest-being a raccoon is tough enough without dealing with ethical dilemmas.

Graphics

Visually, 'Backbone' presents itself like an art gallery you wish would open up right in your living room. The hand-painted backgrounds encapsulate that classic noir vibe, mixed with a whimsy that's less 'dark cabaret' and more 'cute exploitation film meets existential crisis.' Each scene oozes charm, and the character animations, though a touch awkward, give you that warm feeling similar to when you see a puppy trying to catch its tail. Seriously, if you're looking to flex your screenshot-taking skills for social media, this game is like candy for visual aesthetics.

Conclusion

In the end, 'Backbone' spins a yarn deeper than a raccoon's trash pile. With its captivating story, inventive characters, and visual flair, stepping into Howard Lotor's shoes is a delightful and sometimes profound experience. Whether you're uncovering societal commentary or just enjoying some good old-fashioned raccoon shenanigans, this game is here to make you think...while simultaneously making you wonder if you'd ever trust a raccoon. A solid 8 out of 10, because who better than a raunchy raccoon to teach us about life, mystery, and how to recycle properly?

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