I’ve played through the Beta several times now, and every time I found something new.
But there’s nothing new about the gameplay, it’s becoming “thatgamecompany”‘s trademark, it’s as surreal an gorgeous as Flower was, and as myterious as the Xbox game Limbo.

You find yourself in the middle of a desert with no aim, idea, or clue as to how you got there and why you’re there, you just are OK!
So far, and I mean that because the beta isn’t the complete game, there isn’t a single spoken word, it’s all images and gestures. But they work in guiding you around without much trouble.
And it’s this simplicity that “thatgamecompany” thrives on, and makes the experience pleasurable.

Sadly I dont think this kind of game will suit everyone, but for those who do like it, and those who do “try” it will no no doubt be left feeling relaxed or even a little enchanted.
There’s no gun to pick up, no aliens to destroy, nothing explodes (except for billions of photons, and they do so harmlessly), so no, not everyone will enjoy it. But those who play it will no doubt get something from it.

And thats the point isn’t it? Gaming without violence or frenetic motion for a change? Stress free, relaxing gaming!

But you also dont get to play alone, no there’s no squad! it’s not that kind of game, you just get one other person (whom you’ll NEVER know because their details are hidden from view), you’ll never get to speak to them, but you still have to work together to solve puzzles, and without them, neither of you will progress.
I’ve got to say it’s a novel idea, no direct communication, you just have to hope they have more than 2 braincells or you’re gonna get stuck.

The soundtrack is as good at chillout as anything the Ministry of Sound can produce too, even on par with the excellent Flower soundtrack, and thats no mean feat… I loved it (both I mean).

So come release day you’ll probably find me chilling out, playing this and definately scratching my head more than once. (I don’t have hair so I dont have nits thank you very much).
I just hope you can enjoy it as much as I. Now it’s time to kick ass and chew bubblegum. Roll on Battlefield 3 Beta!