Polar Dream: Alone in the Light, 2012

Alone in the Light is a mystical, dreamlike experience that will have you lost in thought. In an arctic setting, we see the spectacle of the aurora borealis. We are told that the light has separated into crystal-like tonal shards, "three shards for each note, seven notes in all." Each shard gives off a distinctive melodic tone. You are looking for these shards in the arctic winds of the North. You are a polar bear.

Your goal is simple: explore the vast arctic landscape, looking for the separated shards of the aurora. The experience is so coherent, I guarantee you'll lose track of time as you play through this simple platformer. The music is simplistic, and the art is absolutely gorgeous. According to the lead designer of the title, Chelsea Howe, "Alone in the Light is dedicated to Kim 'NeoGeen' Koskamp [the project's artist], whose commitment, effort and attitude inspired us to see this through to the end."

A couple of things that really stood out to me: the sounds and music were incredibly executed. Everything is so crisp and tasteful. Every sound utilized seems imperative. The music is sparse but affective. Something else that stood out to me, obviously, was the unique artwork of the game. The polar bear, in particular, epitomizes the efforts of Koskamp, with its elegant features galloping across the snowy terrain, playfully groping the earth underneath him, in an unforgettably graceful motion. Lastly, one of my favorite features of the game is the deep, "black ink" colored water in which you find yourself swimming through. As you descend, the water darkens, making it near impossible to see. The effect is unlike anything I've seen before.

This is a game worth your time.

platform utilized: browser
genre: platform
where to find: You can find Alone in the Light at its own dedicated site, right here.