“Until Then” is an upcoming Pinoy indie game by Polychroma Games, set to release this June 25th 2024. This narrative adventure game takes players on a journey through the eyes of Mark Borja, a high school student in the Philippines. With beautiful pixel art and an emotional storyline, “Until Then” promises to offer a unique gaming experience that highlights Filipino culture and storytelling.
Polychroma Games and Their Vision
Polychroma Games, a talented team based in the Philippines, is behind “Until Then.” Founded by Mickole Klein Nulud, the team aims to create story-driven games that resonate with players globally. They draw inspiration from their own experiences and the rich culture of the Philippines. This dedication to authenticity is evident in every aspect of the game, from its story to its art and gameplay.
Influences for “Until Then”
In an interview with Rappler, the developers at Polychroma Games drew inspiration from various sources while creating “Until Then.” The game’s pixel art style is reminiscent of titles like “A Space for the Unbound” and “Night in the Woods.” The narrative and gameplay also take cues from games like “Life is Strange” and “Oxenfree.”
A True Pinoy Indie Game
As a Pinoy indie game, “Until Then” stands out for its heartfelt storytelling and beautiful art. It’s a game made by Filipinos, for Filipinos, and for anyone who appreciates a good story. The game’s success could pave the way for more Filipino indie games to gain recognition on the global stage.
High School Nostalgia
“Until Then” taps into high school nostalgia with its setting and characters. The game perfectly captures the essence of high school life in the Philippines, from the mundane tasks to the exciting adventures. Whether it’s cramming for exams or hanging out with friends, the game brings back fond memories for anyone who has experienced high school.
Mark Borja’s Journey
The protagonist of “Until Then,” Mark Borja, is a high school student dealing with the aftermath of a catastrophe. His journey is one of self-discovery and growth, as he navigates the challenges of high school life and uncovers the mysteries surrounding him. Mark’s story is engaging and relatable, making it easy for players to connect with him and his experiences.
What Makes “Until Then” Special?
Here are the six things we loved about “Until Then” and why you should try this 2024 Pinoy indie game:
1. The Baybayin in the Game Poster
One of the first things that stood out to us about the game was the use of Baybayin in the game poster. The Baybayin script reads “HaNgGaNgSaMuLi,” a Tagalog phrase for “Until Then.” It’s rare to see our ancient script featured so prominently in a game, and it immediately caught our attention. It’s a small detail, but it adds so much to the cultural depth of the game.
2. Relatable and Nostalgic Scenes
The scenes and locations in “Until Then” are incredibly relatable and nostalgic. Even if the establishment names are spoofed, they are identifiable and bring a sense of awe. Walking through the train stations, convenience store, and spotting a famous burger franchise and a fishball stand—these little details make the game feel like a love letter to the Philippines. There are also colored chicks vendors and beggars sleeping on the sidewalk, which are common sights in many parts of the country. These scenes made us feel like we were right back in our hometowns, reminiscing about simpler times.
3. Enjoyable Mini Games
The mini games in “Until Then” are simple yet heartfelt and enjoyable. In the demo, you can experience fighting a friend for more fishballs, a popular Filipino street food. This portion of the game reminded us of the once popular Pinoy mobile app game “Make Tusok the Fishball”. You will also get a good laugh when trying to stick a flash drive in the right way, a typical Pinoy student experience when making a class presentation. These mini games add depth to the narrative, making the game more immersive. They help players connect with Mark’s world and make the gameplay experience richer and more engaging.
4. Engaging Story
Even if the game’s mechanics are simple, the story behind “Until Then” is engaging and exciting. The narrative follows Mark Borja and his friends as they navigate the challenges of high school life and uncover the mysteries surrounding them. The story touches on themes of loss, change, and the passage of time, which are universally relatable. It’s a tale that pulls at your heartstrings and keeps you invested from start to finish.
5. Commendable Interactivity
The interactivity of the elements in the game is very commendable, especially when Mark is using his phone. From texting friends to scrolling through social media, the game does a fantastic job of mimicking real-life interactions. This level of detail makes the game feel more immersive and personal. It’s like you’re living Mark’s life alongside him, experiencing his joys and struggles firsthand.
6. Highlighting Filipino Skills and Artistry
“Until Then” highlights the skills, artistry, and expertise of Filipinos. The game’s stunning pixel art, intricate storyline, and engaging gameplay all showcase the talent of the team at Polychroma Games. It’s clear that a lot of love and effort went into creating this game, and it’s something we can all be proud of. The game not only entertains but also elevates the Filipino gaming industry by setting a high standard for future projects.
Where to Download the Game?
You can download the demo of “Until Then” on Steam for free. The full game will also be available on Steam and PlayStation 5 upon release.
When is the Release Date?
The game is set to release on June 25, 2024. You can stay updated by wishlisting the game on Steam and following Polychroma Games on social media.
Who is the Main Character?
The main character is Mark Borja, a high school student in the Philippines. The story follows his journey as he navigates daily life and uncovers a mysterious chain of events.
What Makes “Until Then” Unique?
“Until Then” stands out for its heartfelt story, cultural references, and engaging gameplay. The game offers a unique look at Filipino life and culture, making it a standout title in the indie game scene.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Pinoy Indie Game of 2024
“Until Then” is a game that every fan of narrative adventures should try. Its heartfelt story, engaging gameplay, and rich cultural references make it a standout title. Polychroma Games has crafted a beautiful, immersive experience that highlights the best of Filipino talent and storytelling.
Stay tuned for the release of “Until Then” in 2024. Don’t miss out on this amazing Pinoy indie game that promises to leave a lasting impact on players worldwide.