An Engaging but Flawed Psy-Fi Adventure

There’s no greater sign of a video game having told a great story than when it leaves you thinking about it after the credits have rolled. Read Only Memories: NEURODIVER, the long-awaited sequel to 2015’s 2064: Read Only Memories, is a game that has managed to linger in my mind days after finishing it. While it offers a compelling premise and a colorful world, it unfortunately falls short in a few key areas.

A Unique Premise in NEURODIVER

In Read Only Memories: NEURODIVER, players step into the shoes of Luna (code name ES88), an Esper with psychic abilities working for MINERVA. With the help of a bio-engineered squid-like creature called the Neurodiver, Luna dives into and repairs people’s memories. This innovative technology offers the potential to cure diseases like Alzheimer’s, adding a fascinating layer to the game’s narrative.

An Intriguing Premise

In Read Only Memories: NEURODIVER, you play as Luna (code name ES88), an Esper with psychic powers working for the megacorporation MINERVA. With the help of a bio-engineered squid-like creature called the Neurodiver, Luna can dive into and repair people’s memories. This innovative technology holds the potential to cure diseases like Alzheimer’s, making Luna’s abilities both fascinating and vital.

Compelling Characters and Relationships

One of the game’s strongest points is its characters. Luna is earnest, goofy, and nerdy, while her companion Gate, a former military android, is quiet and tough with a caring side. Their dynamic is a joy to watch as it develops throughout the game. The game also shines in its portrayal of relationships, with significant queer representation and plenty of charming interactions that add depth to the characters.

Classic Point-and-Click Mechanics in NEURODIVER

NEURODIVER sticks to the classic point-and-click adventure format, allowing players to explore richly detailed environments, interact with various characters, and solve puzzles. The environments are filled with interesting objects and characters that flesh out the world of Neo-SF. The quest log helps guide you if you ever find yourself stuck, ensuring a smooth gameplay experience.

Memory Diving Mechanics

The game introduces a unique mechanic when you dive into memories. Here, you encounter corrupted fragments that need repairing by finding related objects and using them to restore the truth. This starts off simple but becomes increasingly complex, adding a layer of intrigue and challenge.

Visuals and Sound: Strengths of Read Only Memories: NEURODIVER

The art direction in NEURODIVER is exceptional, combining nostalgic “vaporwave” aesthetics with contemporary elements. The colorful visuals are both lovely to look at and functional, helping distinguish important elements. The voice acting is superb, enhancing the narrative with expressive performances. The soundtrack also stands out, with tracks that perfectly complement the game’s atmosphere.

Narrative and Pacing Issues

While NEURODIVER excels in world-building and character development, the main plot feels somewhat shallow and rushed. The story hints at deeper, more complex themes and mysteries but ultimately wraps up too neatly, leaving some big questions unanswered. This abrupt conclusion can leave players feeling unsatisfied.

Simplistic Puzzles

The puzzle design in NEURODIVER is another area where the game falls short. The memory repair puzzles can feel too simplistic and often rely on trial and error rather than deductive reasoning. This lack of challenge may disappoint players looking for more complex puzzle-solving experiences.

Final Thoughts on Read Only Memories: NEURODIVER

Read Only Memories: NEURODIVER is a fascinating blend of modern cyberpunk and nostalgic anime influences, offering a compelling narrative and memorable characters. However, its simplistic gameplay and rushed ending prevent it from reaching its full potential. Despite these shortcomings, it remains an enjoyable experience for fans of narrative-driven games and those looking for a unique sci-fi adventure.

If you’re a lover of point-and-click adventures and sci-fi narratives, NEURODIVER is worth your time. Just be prepared for a story that might leave you wanting more. For the best experience, download and purchase Read Only Memories: NEURODIVER on PC via Steam or the Epic Games Store. Enjoy this captivating “Psy-Fi” adventure today!