It can be argued that highly-stylized games are much more difficult to pull-off than most mainstream titles. Everything about them has to have some extra visual “oomph” to it, and the aesthetic often needs to be relevant to the gameplay in some way. Otherwise, the project runs the risk of coming across as simply be artsy for the sake of being artsy. That doesn’t stop talented and ambitious developers from trying though, and it looks like Nomada Studio might just be able to pull it off with GRIS.
GRIS follows the story of a young girl with the same name. She’s suffered through some manner of traumatic event and now must embark upon a journey through a world of her own making in order to move on from her sorrow. Her emotional state is manifested via her dress, which can change form and grant Gris special abilities. As she uses these to move through her world and grow emotionally, her changing perspective unlocks new avenues to explore as well as puzzles and skill-based challenges.
Such challenges are purely optional though as the focus of this game appears to be more on Gris herself and her journey rather than providing a traditional challenge. There’s no losing in GRIS, so players can simply sit back and enjoy their trip alongside Gris. Don’t forget to stop and take in the absolutely stunning scenery along the way.
GRIS launches on December 13 for PC and Nintendo Switch.
