Contrast was my first introduction to Compulsion Games – more game reviews to come from their games in this journal as I thoroughly enjoy them!

Contrast is a heartfelt and clever puzzle-platformer that stands out for its originality and emotional depth. Set in a dreamlike noir-inspired world, the game invites players into a surreal universe where shadows are just as real as the physical world.

You play as Dawn, the mysterious and acrobatic imaginary friend of a young girl named Didi. The bond between these two characters is the emotional core of the game, and it’s beautifully portrayed. Didi’s determined and sweet personality paired with Dawn’s silent strength makes for a genuine touching relationship between the two, especially as the player navigates through a story that focuses on broken families and hidden truths.

The standout mechanic in Contrast is the ability to shift between the 3D physical world and 2D shadow space. This clever twist turns light sources and silhouettes into platforms. I quite enjoyed this element of gameplay as I haven’t experienced anything like that before in a video game. However, there were a few issues with the execution and it wasn’t always flawless. I encountered glitches several times such as buggy physics and camera angles cutting off. However, the hiccups are forgivable in light of the game’s ambition and heart.

The noir setting is simply stunning. Jazz-filled soundscapes, sepia-toned lighting, and vaudeville-inspired architecture give Contrast a theatrical charm. It feels like stepping into a shadowy cabaret where every corner hides a secret and every light source is a puzzle waiting to be solved.

I highly recommend checking out Contrast, the puzzles are fun and the blend of storytelling, style and gameplay makes it feel fresh. It may not be perfect but it’s definitely unforgettable.