There’s a fascinating paradox in science fiction: do real-world scientists and inventors draw inspiration from the imaginative creations of science fiction writers, leading to the eventual realisation of those fictional concepts? From 3D printers to rockets, many technologies we take for granted today were once merely ideas confined to the pages of science fiction novels.
Universe for Sale explores this interplay between fiction and reality, presenting a story within a story, where creations shape the destiny of a civilisation residing in the atmosphere of Jupiter.
This point-and-click adventure boasts one of the most engaging and unique narratives I’ve encountered in recent years. Set in a future where Earth has been ravaged by war and climate change, humanity has sought refuge among the stars. The game takes place on a colossal space station orbiting Jupiter, a decaying structure inhabited by various factions and religious groups vying for power. The narrative centres on two intriguing individuals: the Master and Lila.
The Master is a compelling character, shrouded in mystery. When we first meet him, he’s asleep in a marketplace, disoriented and searching for Lila. Throughout the game, we revisit this scene, experiencing the narrative non-linearly, jumping back and forth through time. While this fragmented storytelling approach can sometimes be disorienting, it works effectively in Universe for Sale, mirroring the Master’s own confusion and gradual realisation of his circumstances. He’s a member of a religious cult that grants him glimpses of another reality, and his physical appearance, skeletal and emaciated, reflects his devotion to this esoteric pursuit.
Lila is a woman we first encounter as a child, listening to a fantastical story. Later, we meet her as an adult who crafts and sells universes in a marketplace. These universes take on various shapes and forms, catering to the desires of her clientele. The connection between the Master and Lila, and the reason for their intertwined destinies, gradually unfolds as you delve deeper into the narrative, where the story is filled with intriguing characters and unexpected twists, making it a joy to explore this unusual world and uncover its secrets.
The gameplay found in Universe for Sale is typical of point-and-click adventures, with simple controls for navigating the environments and interacting with objects. Dialogue choices and actions, such as selecting a specific type of tea, influence the story’s progression, whilst mini-games are interspersed throughout the narrative, offering challenges like navigating an asteroid field or operating machinery.
These mini-games are enjoyable and add variety to the experience. One particularly engaging segment involves crafting universes with Lila, fulfilling customer requests by shaping and molding celestial bodies. This puzzle-like mechanic can be challenging but also rewarding and addictive.
The artwork is stunning, and Universe for Sale is reminiscent of a high-quality graphic novel or an art-house animated film. The environments are beautifully detailed, depicting a future that is both awe-inspiring and melancholic. The game utilises comic book-style framing and character portraits to enhance the visual storytelling.
And then the sound design, while minimalist, is equally as effective. Atmospheric effects, such as rain, contribute to the immersive experience, while the music, used sparingly, complements the game’s mood and atmosphere.
Universe for Sale will immediately draw you in, what with its unique premise, striking visuals, and intriguing characters. The story is well-written and thought-provoking, and the world is a joy to explore.
While the initial confusion might be disorienting for some players, it ultimately serves the narrative’s purpose and so if you’re seeking a science fiction adventure with a unique perspective and deep storytelling, Universe for Sale is a worthwhile experience.
Universe for Sale: A Hand-Drawn Adventure Among the Clouds of Jupiter – https://www.thexboxhub.com/universe-for-sale-a-hand-drawn-adventure-among-the-clouds-of-jupiter/
Buy Universe for Sale on Xbox – https://www.xbox.com/en-gb/games/store/universe-for-sale/9n25vs5spz2v
