Released in July, Oxenfree II: Lost Signals is the sequel almost no one knew they needed. Oxenfree was the indie darling of 2016, receiving positive reviews, a number of award nominations and an Excellence In Visual Art award from the Independent Games Festival in 2016. It’s one of those games that you’ve either never heard of or you’re obsessed with.
Like its predecessor, Oxenfree 2 is a narrative game that focuses on conversation to move you through key points in the story. Following on from the previous instalment, a group of researchers place transmitters across Camena, Alex’s hometown, and neighbouring Edward’s Island, the setting of the first Oxenfree. As you put the research equipment up, it becomes clear things aren’t as they should be. Your team must find a way to stave off supernatural occurrences happening on the island, uncovering secrets and conspiracies – both human and ghostly.
While the first game’s charm and intrigue lay in the pre-existing relationships between characters, the sequel opts for new relationships across the board. This means it’s harder to attach yourself to Riley, the game’s protagonist, as it takes a while for her to build a rapport with other team members.
Obviously, dialogue choices will help or hinder this, but the game doesn’t necessarily play to the strengths of the format in this regard. However, what’s lacking in intriguing interpersonal history is made up for in being absolutely wild. The game takes you through so many twists and turns that you don’t mind waiting for the relationships to develop.
As developer The Night School was acquired by Netflix in 2021, subscribers can access the game for free. (The developers have confirmed the corporation was not creatively involved.) Oxenfree II is the best possible sequel to one of the best indie games of the 2010s: grab a copy if you can.
Oxenfree II is available for Nintendo Switch, Android, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and Mac/PC.
Price: £11.60-£18.99. Info: here
words HARI BERROW