HomeReviews4/5 ReviewMexico, 1921: A Deep Slumber Review

Mexico, 1921: A Deep Slumber Review

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Step Back in Time to 1920s Mexico

Since the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns, international travel has become less frequent for me, primarily due to time and financial constraints. Consequently, I find it particularly enjoyable to explore new and historical settings through video games. While Microsoft Flight Simulator offers a stunning virtual tour of the modern world, games like Mexico, 1921: A Deep Slumber provide a glimpse into the past, allowing the player to experience different cultures and historical periods. 

This narrative adventure transports you to post-revolutionary Mexico, where you’ll unravel a web of intrigue and uncover the truth behind a presidential assassination.

Mexico 1921 A Deep Slumber Review 1
Heading back to Mexico, 1921

A Nation in Turmoil

Set in 1921, during the aftermath of the Mexican Revolution, the game’s narrative spans a tumultuous period in Mexican history, culminating around 1928. You primarily play as Juan Aguirre, a young journalist working for a corrupt and sensationalist newspaper. Armed with a camera and a thirst for truth, Juan embarks on a quest to uncover the secrets behind the president’s assassination and expose the hidden forces manipulating events from the shadows.

The story unfolds as you journey through Mexico, encountering a diverse cast of characters from various social and political backgrounds. You assume the role of a detective, piecing together clues and navigating complex relationships to unravel the truth. The writing is engaging and well-researched, and the characters are well-developed and believable. The game’s exploration of a specific historical period and cultural context adds a layer of depth and intrigue that I found particularly appealing.

Point-and-Click with a Twist

The gameplay mechanics are straightforward and primarily linear. Reminiscent of classic point-and-click adventures, you’ll examine objects, gather clues, and engage in conversations with various individuals. There are moments where you’ll need to employ “nosey mode” to eavesdrop on conversations and gather crucial information. While the dialogue choices are not as impactful as in some other narrative-driven games, they still influence the story’s progression. However, the game’s technical aspects can feel slightly unpolished at times, with occasional jankiness in the movement and animations. Thankfully, these minor issues don’t significantly detract from the overall experience.

Mexico 1921 A Deep Slumber Review 2
A unique camera set up

A unique gameplay element is the camera mechanic. Unlike modern games with instant photography, Mexico, 1921 requires you to master the intricacies of early 20th-century photography. You’ll need to adjust aperture settings, focus, and depth of field to capture the perfect shot. This adds a layer of authenticity and challenge to the investigative process, and successfully capturing key moments in the story is immensely rewarding.

Historical Landmarks and Authentic Artifacts

Exploration is a core component of the gameplay. Over the 4-5 hour playtime, you’ll traverse various locations and historical landmarks, immersing yourself in the atmosphere of 1920s Mexico. The inclusion of real-world artifacts from the Popular Arts Museum and National Newspaper Library adds a layer of historical authenticity and encourages exploration.

The visuals found in Mexico, 1921: A Deep Slumber evoke the artistic style of the period, with a slightly surreal aesthetic that complements the narrative’s blend of realism and intrigue. And alongside that, the soundtrack features a mix of authentic Mexican music and 1920s-era tunes, creating an immersive auditory experience. The sound effects are well-implemented, and while the voice acting is generally competent, it can be inconsistent at times; a bit of a mixed bag.

Mexico 1921 A Deep Slumber Review 3
One that will resonate

A Compelling Historical Adventure with Minor Flaws

Mexico, 1921: A Deep Slumber is a game that will resonate with you on several levels. The narrative-driven adventure is enjoyable, as is the exploration of a fascinating historical setting, and the unique camera mechanic. The story is compelling, in fact, filled with political intrigue and unexpected twists. And it’s helped by the inclusion of collectibles and historical details that add depth and authenticity to the world. 

There’s no doubt that Mexico, 1921: A Deep Slumber has some minor technical rough edges, but these are easily overshadowed by the engaging narrative, unique gameplay mechanics, and immersive atmosphere. If you’re seeking a historical adventure with a focus on exploration and puzzle-solving, Mexico, 1921: A Deep Slumber is well worth experiencing.


Mexico, 1921: A Deep Slumber Uncovers a Historical Mystery on Xbox – https://www.thexboxhub.com/mexico-1921-a-deep-slumber-uncovers-a-historical-mystery-on-xbox/

Buy Mexico, 1921 on Xbox – https://www.xbox.com/en-gb/games/store/mexico1921-a-deep-slumber/9N4LJTKB9KV5


SUMMARY

Pros:
  • Narrative and story
  • Camera mechanic
  • Very good visuals
Cons:
  • Feels a bit janky at times
Info:
  • Massive thanks for the free copy of the game, Mácula Interactive
  • Formats - Xbox Series X|S (review), Xbox One, PC
  • Not Available on Game Pass Day One
  • Release date | Price - 9 January 2025 | £16.74
Gareth Brierley
Gareth Brierleyhttp://www.garethbrierley.co.uk
I am an actor and a writer. I act quite a bit on stage, a little bit on tv and never on tuesdays. I have had some of my writing published and have written for TV and stage. I have been playing games since they begun and don't seem to be getting any better.
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<b>Pros:</b> <ul> <li>Narrative and story</li> <li>Camera mechanic</li> <li>Very good visuals</li> </ul> <b>Cons:</b> <ul> <li>Feels a bit janky at times</li> </ul> <b>Info:</b> <ul> <li>Massive thanks for the free copy of the game, Mácula Interactive</li> <li>Formats - Xbox Series X|S (review), Xbox One, PC <li>Not Available on Game Pass Day One <li>Release date | Price - 9 January 2025 | £16.74</li> </ul>Mexico, 1921: A Deep Slumber Review
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