Epston Island has an interesting investigative premise and a clear attempt to create tension through document review and decision-making. It gave me some Papers, Please vibes in terms of structure, but with a more narrative investigative framing.
A few notes from my experience:
The itch.io page itself is very minimal. Adding a short description, screenshots, or context would really help set expectations before players download and jump in.
The menu and pop-up font was difficult to read at times, which made it harder to stay immersed in the investigation. Improving readability would go a long way in strengthening the overall presentation.
There is also a usability issue with the How to Play section. Once I opened it, I couldn’t return to the main menu without refreshing the page. A simple back button would improve flow significantly.
From a design perspective, I found myself wanting stronger stakes. I understood that I was investigating something serious, but I wasn’t always sure why my role mattered or what consequences my decisions carried. Raising the tension through clearer outcomes or escalating pressure could elevate the experience.
Overall, the core investigative loop has potential. With stronger UI polish, clearer stakes, and more presentation on the itch page, it could feel much more impactful.