Unpacking describes itself as “a zen puzzle game about unpacking a life.” And I can’t really describe it any better than that. It’s a peaceful puzzle game developed by indie studio Witch Beam and published by Humble Bundle in 2021. With a PlayStation port released in 2022.
The game took the indie world by storm. Winning numerous awards, including quite a few Game of the Year awards. And it’s not hard to see why. Such a simple concept is taken and used as an effective storytelling device. Giving insights on the life and story of the main character with barely any words to be found. It’s a relaxing breeze that only takes a few hours, packed with pleasing visuals and calm music.
However, the lack of a main narrative might turn some people away from the game. As well as the pixel art visuals not always working in their favor, and the experience as a whole being shorter than some people would like.
Unpacking is available on Steam, Xbox, PlayStation & Nintendo Switch for $19.99. It is also available via Google Play and the App Store. It’s also free on Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Plus.
Story – Your Life in Photos
Unpacking doesn’t have a story in the traditional sense of the word. There aren’t characters furthering plots in cutscenes. There aren’t missions to expand the world and give you a deeper understanding. There’s just boxes to unpack, and the story that comes with them.
Think of your favorite possessions. Those things you’ve brought with you every time you move. Think of the story those items have. That’s what Unpacking is all about. You follow this one woman through her life as she moves into different places. You piece together her story and her personality through the items you pull out.
Along with that, you can learn about the different people she lives with through their decorations and how they live. Whether it’s nerdy friends who get her into Dungeons & Dragons, or a boyfriend who isn’t the best at making space for her. It’s not a big or elaborate story, but it doesn’t need to be.
The joys of moving into your first dorm
Gameplay – Chores Made Fun
We’ve all played at least one game like this. A game that takes boring responsibilities that none of us want to do and somehow makes it fun. Animal Crossing is basically built on that concept alone. Not to mention the sea of farming games that have been popping up in an attempt to dethrone Stardew Valley.
As the name implies, Unpacking is all about opening boxes and moving into new places. There are 8 levels, and they generally get more difficult as you go. There are more boxes to unpack, as well as more rooms to move into. Once you’ve unpacked every box, you will be told which items need to be relocated. However, it will not tell you where it’s supposed to go. Though it’s pretty easy to figure out.
Unpacking is simple but effective. It’s a relaxing time that only takes a few hours to complete. And you can go at your own pace, designing the rooms however you like with some limitations. It’s also an easy completion for people looking to boost their achievement/trophy count.
Achievements also unlock stickers for Photo Mode
Graphics & Sound – Not My First Pix
Unpacking uses a pixel art style with every room being at a fixed perspective. All you can do is zoom in and out, and rotate items. It works for the simplistic approach of the game, though it does have some flaws.
Some of the items are very hard to discern, especially since there are no labels or ways to figure out what certain things are. If you don’t recognize it, you kind of just have to put it somewhere and hope you’re right. Aside from those few instances, the art style is utilized very effectively.
The music is simple and effective as well. It’s perfectly serviceable for the experience. But you won’t miss anything if you turn off the music and put on your own.
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- Unpacking the kitchen is always a struggle
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- I didn’t know you could put toothbrushes in the mug & I’ve beat this game twice
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- Don’t you love when your roommates leave their stuff everywhere?
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- The first room
