In an era where video games are increasingly recognized as a powerful medium for storytelling and emotional exploration, Portuguese developer Octopus Embrace has made a significant contribution with their award-winning title, “Back Then.” Released today for PlayStation 5, this narrative-focused, first-person game offers players an immersive experience that delves into the complex and often heart-wrenching world of Alzheimer’s disease.

At its core, “Back Then” invites players to confront one of humanity’s most profound fears: the loss of self through memory deterioration. The game poses a haunting question that resonates with many: “Who do we become when we forget who we are?”This central theme drives the narrative and gameplay, creating a unique and thought-provoking experience.

Players step into the mind of Thomas Eilian, an elderly writer grappling with Alzheimer’s disease. The gameplay mechanics are carefully crafted to reflect the challenges and uncertainties faced by those affected by this condition. Through investigative exploration and puzzle-solving, players unravel the mysteries of Thomas’ life, family, and memories. The game’s structure, which allows navigation between past and present, mirrors the disjointed nature of memory loss, providing a poignant representation of the Alzheimer’s experience.

What sets “Back Then” apart is its commitment to creating an emotional and atmospheric experience. The game emphasizes storytelling through its environment, soundtrack, and narrated exploration. This approach broadens its appeal beyond traditional gamers, inviting a wider audience to engage with its poetic and emotional narrative.

The development of “Back Then” is a story of passion and personal connection. Calebe Motta, one of the game’s creators, shares a deeply personal motivation behind the project. Born in Portugal to Brazilian parents, Motta’s journey across different countries and cultures has infused the game with a rich, diverse perspective. The initial concept for “Back Then” emerged during a Global Game Jam in 2019, where the theme of “Home” inspired the team to explore the idea of an elderly person with Alzheimer’s, confined to a nursing home, interacting with objects to recollect their life.

The development process was not without its challenges. The team faced the global pandemic and personal losses, including the passing of Motta’s grandfathers – one of whom inspired the character of Thomas. These experiences, while difficult, added depth and authenticity to the game’s portrayal of loss and memory.

Octopus Embrace’s dedication to their vision has not gone unnoticed. “Back Then” has already garnered significant acclaim, winning the ‘People’s Choice Award’ at IndieX 2019 and both the ‘Games 4 Good’ and ‘Best Game’ awards at PlayStation Talents in January 2020. These accolades highlight the game’s potential to make a meaningful impact in the gaming industry and beyond.

The release of “Back Then” on PlayStation 5 marks a significant milestone for the small development team. It represents the culmination of four years of hard work, perseverance through personal and global challenges, and a deep commitment to their artistic vision. The game’s availability on this major platform, following its earlier release on PC, opens up new opportunities for it to reach and affect a broader audience.

One of the most compelling aspects of “Back Then” is its potential to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease. By allowing players to experience a simulation of memory loss and its effects on personal identity, the game offers a unique perspective on this condition. It has the power to foster empathy and understanding among players who may not have personal experience with Alzheimer’s, while potentially providing a sense of recognition and comfort to those who have been affected by the disease.

The game’s features go beyond mere storytelling. Players can expect an in-depth narrative experience complemented by detective-style exploration and puzzles. The gameplay elements are designed to creatively represent the challenges associated with Alzheimer’s and memory loss, providing an educational component alongside the emotional journey.

It’s worth noting that “Back Then” is more than just a game – it’s a multimedia experience. Alongside the game’s release, the official soundtrack is being made available on all music streaming platforms. This extension of the game’s auditory landscape allows players and music enthusiasts alike to immerse themselves in the emotional world of “Back Then” even when away from their gaming consoles.

As the gaming industry continues to evolve, titles like “Back Then” demonstrate the medium’s capacity for addressing complex, real-world issues. By tackling a subject as sensitive and prevalent as Alzheimer’s disease, Octopus Embrace is contributing to a broader conversation about memory, identity, and the human experience.

The release of “Back Then” on PlayStation 5 is not just a commercial launch; it’s an invitation to players to embark on a journey of empathy and reflection. As Motta and his team state, they hope the game will “touch even more lives, bringing some comfort to those whose family members have been affected by Alzheimer’s”. In doing so, “Back Then” exemplifies the potential of video games to serve as a powerful tool for storytelling, emotional exploration, and social awareness.

As players dive into the world of Thomas Eilian, they are likely to emerge with not only a greater understanding of Alzheimer’s disease but also a deeper appreciation for the power of memory and the resilience of the human spirit. “Back Then” stands as a testament to the ability of indie game developers to create experiences that resonate on a profoundly human level, bridging the gap between entertainment and empathy.