You can enjoy this on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
The aim: to hone my skills as a budding filmmaker.
There’s something genuinely striking about the faces in this game. They’re incredibly lifelike—expressive, genuine, and full of emotion. It’s like looking into the eyes of real people, trying to understand what they’re saying and what they’re keeping hidden. I’ve only spent about three hours delving into the first part of “Lost Records: Bloom & Rage,” crafted by the folks at Don’t Nod, the same brains behind “Life Is Strange.” And I have to say, I’m hooked. While it shares some heart with the original series—offering a nostalgic glimpse into the intense and awkward teen years—it throws in its own twist: you also witness these characters in their 40s, reflecting on a pivotal summer during the ‘90s. As someone who was a teen in the ‘90s and is now in my 40s, I’m really curious about how the game handles this shift in perspective thanks to the time jump.
You step into the shoes of Swann, who once dreamed of making films during her teenage days. I absolutely adore how the game lets you play around with her camcorder, capturing moments and piecing them into short montages. There’s a raw honesty to it, like Swann is simply following her creative instincts wherever they may lead, without second-guessing herself or worrying about doing it “right.” It’s exactly what teens should explore as they mature into true artists. Plus, the atmosphere in this game is spot-on. I just want to soak up its vibes. I’m not quite sure yet where the story will take me, but I’m set on finishing the first part of “Lost Records” this weekend to uncover more about that unforgettable summer from long ago. — Carolyn Petit
