Nostalgia

Submission for OST Composing Jam #7

Mood references and inspiration: Andrei Tarkovsky Movies, Yume Nikki, Hypnagogia Boundless Dreams, Critters for Sale, Disillusion

Story Overview

"Nostalgia" is an introspective journey through the mind of Alex, a young artist struggling with mental health issues.

Alex's main problem is nostalgia for the past, and for childhood. Because of this, Alex can't move forward

The game is an atmospheric, ambient adventure that takes players through various levels that represent different stages of Alex's mental struggle and eventual progress towards healing.

It will be a third-person puzzle game.  

Main Menu - Preparing for the Long Journey

As the game begins, the protagonist stands at the threshold of his own mind, facing the daunting journey of self-discovery and healing. The melancholic tones of the main menu music reflect the protagonist's determination and trepidation, setting the stage for the emotional journey ahead.

Level 1 - First Trail

The protagonist enters a memory-laden landscape and confronts the first signs of his mental struggles. Shadows of past events loom large, and the player must navigate through these first unsettling memories, piecing together fragments of their past.

Level 2 - Struggles

Deeper into the mind, the protagonist faces more intense challenges, representing the heightened periods of anxiety and despair. The environment becomes darker and more chaotic, reflecting the internal battles and the struggle to maintain a sense of self amidst growing turmoil.

Level 3 - Frenzy 

The journey reaches a critical point as the protagonist encounters a whirlwind of emotions and memories, representing a mental breakdown or panic attack. The pace accelerates and the player must stay focused to navigate through the overwhelming storm of thoughts and feelings. 

Level 4 - Deep in the Mind 

In the deepest recesses of his consciousness, the protagonist confronts the core of his mental problems. Here, the player must piece together the most fragmented and haunting memories, seeking to understand and reconcile with their darkest fears and traumas.

Level 5 – Finding a Solution

Alex realizes that he needs to appreciate what he has, not dwell on the past and be able to move forward. If you feel sad about the past the way Alex did in the beginning, it will not lead to anything good.

Credits - Finally a Rest

Having faced and processed his inner demons, the protagonist emerges with a renewed sense of peace and understanding. The ambient tones of the credits track symbolize a well-deserved respite and the beginning of healing, as the player reflects on the arduous journey and the growth achieved.

There will be two tracks that will slowly change each other during the credits

Themes and Gameplay Mechanics

• Exploration and Puzzle-Solving: Each level is designed as an open world with puzzles and hidden areas that represent pieces of Alex's mind. Solving these puzzles helps Alex make sense of his thoughts and emotions.
• Symbolic Encounters: Players will encounter various symbolic elements and characters that represent Alex's fears, hopes, and memories. Interacting with these elements helps unfold the narrative and provides deeper insights into Alex's psyche.
• Emotional Resilience: Throughout the game, players collect "Fragments of Resilience" that represent Alex's growing strength and determination. These fragments help Alex overcome obstacles and progress through the game.
• Visual and Audio Experience: The game's art style and ambient soundtrack are crucial to creating an immersive experience. The visuals shift from dark and oppressive to bright and hopeful, reflecting Alex's state of mind.

Ideas that I have, but which can only be realized by manipulating the sound engine in the game itself:

1. Randomize some sound samples

2. Turning on different layers at different times

3. Panning of certain sounds/layers depending on objects in the game

Conclusion

"Nostalgia" is not just a game, but an emotional experience that takes players on a poignant journey into the mind of someone struggling with mental health issues. It aims to raise awareness and provide comfort to those who may be facing similar struggles, emphasizing the importance of resilience, self-reflection.