Draugen

Draugen is a short exploration game with not a whole lot to explore, but its majestic Norwegian vistas and its amusing companion engagement make it worth the trip.

Teddy and Lissie are still very inviting characters, who obviously have a backstory that is distinct and known to their writers, and are the best reason to play this game. The credits tell me they will return, so that's something to look forward to. Graavik, meanwhile, remains a nice place to visit. But you wouldn’t want to live there.

Draugen is a superbly written and performed emotional tale that will leave a lasting impact.

Draugen might only last a few hours, but it leaves a lasting impression as you're drawn into the mystery of Graavik and the relationship between Edward and Alice. It can be a little overacted and you can see some story beats coming, but as a first person adventure title it is an enjoyable experience.

Draugen is something of a misdirection. Its early trailer way back in 2014 was filled with bleak landscapes, oppressively dark imagery and a sense of that horror that would lay out before you. But when you arrive at the fjords yourself, they are beautiful, tranquil, and mysterious.

Paradise lost.

Draugen is a first-person narrative adventure from Red Thread Games. As with their previous work on Dreamfall Chapters, developers have provided players with a breathtaking, interesting world to explore that is set in a historical era and location that is little seen in games today. Wandering through the world is a visual and aural treat that is somewhat let down by two divergent mysteries that are never adequately explored or resolved.

Despite its narrative shortcomings, Draugen still has plenty to offer. Graavik has no shortage of beautiful views and stunningly detailed locations. In under three hours, Draugen pulls off a series of well-composed shots that are worth the entry price alone. Teddy and Lissie’s story never reaches its full potential, but there are worse ways to spend a few hours than exploring a wind-swept fjord.

Draugen does its best to have the player question Edward’s findings and doesn’t shy away from exploring past tragedies, history, and the psyche. It tries to weave its two stories into a compelling narrative, however, even with a couple of strong moments, there’s not enough to take the attention away from the fairly tedious exploration. Instead of looking forward to what might happen, each of its six days keeps curiosity at bay with increasing tedium. Where its excellent music, voice acting and occasionally intimate or revelatory moments do their best to pull it out of mediocrity, Draugen doesn...

Draugen begins as a fascinating narrative-adventure game set in a gorgeous world. It's a shame that it struggles to maintain its momentum.

If you're a fan of mysteries then a trip to the fictional Norwegian fishing village of Graavik in this new adventure might be up your alley.

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