At the time of writing this, I have just completed playing The Beginner's Guide, a game from the creator of The Stanley Parable, Davey Wreden. There is so much I want to say about this game, but in light of what it is about, I don't want to give too much away. This will not be a traditional review, but then again, this is not a traditional game, so this review will be my honest opinion on whether or not you should play it.
On a personal level, I enjoyed the game. It was like a good novel, or piece of poetry. It was thoughtful, surprising, and poignant. It shows what video games really can be like in the future. I want to see more games like this, that show and tell rather than are just for play. If you agree, then play this game. If you disagree, then play this game.
So, who else should play this game? What kind of person will enjoy this game or get anything out of it? If you are a creator, play this game. If you are a storyteller, play this game. If you like to correct people, play this game. If you are bored, play this game. Honestly, the only people who I don't think should play this game are people who have no desire to grow and learn and become better.
I know this doesn't help a lot of people wondering what the game is about, but it's only an hour and a half long, and about $10. Just play it. What you gain from it will be based solely on your own experience playing it. I would rather you play it and have your own opinion than listen to my opinion. If someone told me what it was about, I probably would have no interest. But after playing it, I feel good and am very happy with my experience.
The reason I write this review at all is to convince you to give it a try. It's brilliant. You will gain something. Even if it's not what you expect. If this has piqued your curiosity, but not enough to buy it, maybe Davey Wreden's short trailer will change your mind.
