If you are feeling burnt out on the chaotic shooters and endless grinding found in most modern PC games, you really need to slow down and check out SEASON: A letter to the future. This indie gem is an absolute breath of fresh air for anyone looking to just chill out and soak in a beautiful, handcrafted world. It is a gorgeous, highly contemplative road trip adventure where you explore a stunning, slightly melancholic landscape on your bicycle. It completely stands out in the crowded PC gaming scene because it actually asks you to observe, listen, and record rather than just shoot, loot, or destroy.
Storyline
The narrative is wonderfully poetic and deeply emotional. You play as Estelle, a young woman leaving her secluded mountain village for the very first time. Your mission isn't to save the universe; you are simply out to document the world before a mysterious, impending cataclysm known as a change of "season" washes everything away. You are out there to remember, not to fight. Along the road, you will meet a cast of quirky, sometimes heartbreaking characters, learning about their lives and recording their fading cultures. It is a beautifully bittersweet story about holding on to fleeting moments and memories before they disappear forever.
Gaming Experience
When it comes to the actual gaming experience, this title is all about pure, unadulterated vibes. Pedaling your bike across the gorgeous cel-shaded landscapes feels smooth and incredibly relaxing. You spend the majority of your time snapping polaroid-style photos, recording ambient audio of nature or conversations, and pasting everything into a highly customizable scrapbook. There are no health bars, no stressful fail states, and absolutely no rush. It is a meditative, artistic escape that offers one of the most uniquely calming and reflective experiences you can currently find in PC games. Just grab your favorite headphones, get cozy, and enjoy the ride.
