By Karoline Castillo-Troncoso

In real life, and sometimes in the most insightful games, grief is a deep-rooted sorrow, which is so palpable it often feels fatal. Even after the immediate tragedy has subsided, the ache of its remnants persists; almost like a lingering smolder following the intensity of conflagration. Nonetheless, solace is kindled within a sense of community which can contribute to lessening the sting following tremendous woe. Experiencing life’s tragic events first-hand ultimately leaves a lasting impact on individuals, allowing one to recognize the fragile and transitory nature of human existence and emphasizing the significance of nurturing meaningful relationships and connections while discerningly severing ties with relationships that hinder our personal growth and development. 

Closer the Distance, a simulation game developed by Osmotic Studios and published by Skybound Games embraces an emotional storyline where a community grieves together in an attempt to alleviate the pain of recent tragedy. Following the death of the protagonist, Angela from the town of Yesterby, players enact her role as she utilizes her supernatural ability to influence the decisions of the people she once knew.

These are choices that could determine the town’s destiny. Providing players with decisive leverage not only yields the possibilities for numerous game endings but also enhances one’s gameplay. You feel the direct repercussions of decisions made in comparison to decisions previously made. Curiosity flourishes as you ask yourself, “What would’ve happened If I made this choice over that one?” 

This game offers a simulated glimpse into grief, a realistic perspective on its effects, and the different approaches many individuals take when coping. The game reveals characters with diverse personalities. Among them, common themes of guilt, frustration, sorrow, exhaustion, and feeling the need to isolate are displayed in response to Angela’s death – each depicted with distinct nuance. However, I found it beautiful to witness how different characters chose to commemorate Angela – whether it be her friend Zek’s carving a sculpture in her honor, or the simple memento of her sister Concordia, who wears her jacket. 

Visually in Closer the Distance, neutral and often muted hues effortlessly portray the emotional aspect of the game’s plot line as the tone is set through the depiction of the atmosphere’s somber essence. That essence is a manifestation of the poignant aftermath following Angela’s departure. 

In contrast, a detail that particularly caught my attention was the way flashbacks were portrayed. From my experience, whenever depicted in games, movies, or other forms of entertainment, flashbacks are generally rendered as shifts in light, black and white, or darker hues to simulate the fact that such events have occurred in the past tense. Such transitions in light indicate an event that no longer takes place. 

However, noticing how the developers of this game took a different approach to addressing the past is rather refreshing. For instance, I appreciate how memories, particularly shared between Concordia and Angela, are depicted as both characters being objects of light as they interact with each other, offering a contrast to the somber hues as a common color palette within the game. In a general sense, light can symbolize life and happiness. This luminous distinction is, to my understanding, a broadened outlook on the process of grief. Although reflecting on cherished moments often evokes a sense of sorrow as we yearn to be with those who are no longer with us once more, these times can be cherished memories. Remembrance assists in renewing a sense of vitality in our lives as reminiscence often becomes the very remedy to our hurt and aid in our healing. 

I recommend “Closer the Distance” to individuals who may find themselves grappling with grief or perhaps seeking insight into the numerous ways various individuals are naturally inclined to confront it. Additionally, this game immerses players in a setting of vulnerability that offers a profound understanding of real-life situations that happen to real people as they navigate the world of grief through coping with the gravity of loss.

When we look back, reminiscent of memories we hold dear, we look at them with melancholy, wistfully longing for the company of those we’ve lost. As one heals and memories begin to revisit our minds, the grip of anguish and melancholy tightens, outwardly manifesting through groans and weeping. Yet, amidst hardship, it is important to keep memories alive because truly living involves holding onto the memories. And the people we cherish.

Karoline is our intern from the Bronx’s TapCo school. She won one of our scholarships for writing a one-act play featuring a video game.

---