This game drew me in right away, it caught me by surprise time after time again which is far from easy and the hallmark of a game with potential in my opinion. I adored the existential themes, I'd love to see some counter arguments against nihilism as the game progresses besides get shitfaced and you'll be fine (does help occasionally) I think absurdism would really fit the game's aesthetic and thematic
The overall feeling of the game is unpredictable in the best way possible, referring to the environment within the claw machine specifically. Most environments compliment each other where a few really stand out. I loved the change of scenery, I really had a 'how the hell did I get here' feeling. Part of me wants more of that though maybe then it wouldn't stand out as much anymore.
When it comes to the lore, the core of it seems to be the looping and also accepting the journey, and not breaking that loop. Which you might not understand at the beginning of your loop/ journey when you're mentally suffering. If the game for example tells you at some point 'you can't see it right now, but there could be a point. You just haven't drawn it yet' or similar. To me it is still somewhat inconclusive why the bartender doesn't seem as miserable, and I think some kind of reason for that would help the game reach a conclusion and explains why the bartender doesn't interfere. Accepting the past and letting it happen even if you could change it could make for a really strong message. Accepting it would be harder to do if you wronged someone or did something messed up, and could help build up to a conclusion like that.
The visuals are straight up stunning, the initial bar environment is just gorgeous. There's lots of areas of interest that prompt you to look around like the NPCs and posters. Perhaps because they are insects and we're used to seeing thousands of them at once it doesn't feel repetitive to see the same characters a bunch of times. The models are also very well made both in concept and execution, I really love them!! The team seems to have kept a close eye on how everything comes together, different aspects of development seamlessly blend into each other. There are a number of incredibly creative level transitions that felt like one of a kind. It seems like a lot of thought and passion and of course hard work went into it, and it absolutely paid off.
This game is an experience to say the least, It's such a cool concept and the game sticks. It really captured my interest which is somewhat rare even with full release games. You guys managed to bring it to life in all it's awesomeness, amazing work :)