Until Then (PS5)

Life in the High School Spotlight

Until Then invites players into a world where teenage life intertwines with deeper mysteries. Set against the backdrop of a recovering society, follow Mark Borja through the ups and downs of high school. As friendships grow and dissolve and fateful encounters change everything, players will experience a narrative adventure filled with relatable scenarios and poignant themes. Memories become unreliable, leading to a chase for hidden truths as dark forces loom.

Building Relationships Amidst Chaos

Engage with a diverse cast of characters, each with their own backstory. Conversations occur in person, via text, and through email, allowing players to form genuine bonds while navigating the complexities of teenage life. From group projects to social events, your choices impact how relationships evolve, driving the story forward. Mark’s ability to connect with friends shapes not just their futures, but his own as well, adding a layer of emotional investment to the gameplay.

Everyday Challenges and Choices

Players will face relatable dilemmas, like balancing homework and personal relationships, and tackling the philosophical questions that pepper Mark's journey. These moments of decision not only affect the narrative arc but challenge players to consider the consequences of their actions. Will Mark support his friends when it matters most? Can he learn to let go of past grievances? The paths diverge based on the choices made, ensuring every playthrough feels distinct.

Engaging Minigames in Daily Life

Lighthearted minigames pepper the gameplay, offering a break from the heavier narrative elements. Engage in humorous and relatable tasks, like finding the right way to insert a flash drive or competing with friends at a food stand. These sections enhance the overall experience, adding variety while reflecting the mundane realities of high school life. Each task visually connects players to Mark's world, making the experience richer and more engaging.

Exploration Fueled by Technology

A unique feature of Until Then is its integration of technology into exploration. Using an in-game smartphone, players can scroll through social media, emails, and web pages, where likes and comments have real consequences. This aspect highlights the influence of social media on personal relationships within the game, allowing players to decode the complex social interactions present in Mark's life. It’s not just about solving mysteries; it's also about understanding the world around you.

Aesthetic Inspiration from Philippine Culture

Visually, Until Then is a treat, characterized by hand-drawn pixel art that captures the vibrancy of the Philippines. Players will traverse various settings, from the bustling streets of the capital to tranquil coastal towns. Each location is carefully crafted, reflecting local culture and customs while contributing to the narrative. This setting amplifies the emotional weight of the story, grounding it in a reality that feels both familiar and distant.

Unraveling the Mystery Before it's Too Late

As the plot thickens, Mark’s life begins to spiral, with friends disappearing and reality bending. Players are tasked with connecting the dots and solving the central mystery while managing Mark’s high school life. The urgency of the narrative propels players through a tapestry of relationships and choices, driving home the central themes of love, loss, and the quest for truth. Players must stay vigilant, as decisions can lead to unforeseen consequences, changing everything.