Read Only Memories (Steam)


Read Only Memories is a cyberpunk point and click adventure game. It takes place in San Francisco (Neo-SF) in 2064, where robot companions and devices are common place. Neo-SF is a bit on edge, however, because of all of the technology present in their lives. Some people, called "Hybrids", have augmented themselves with technology. Others view this as wrong and demeaning to humans, and go by the name of the Human Revolution to stop them.


You play a journalist (name and gender up to you) who is approached by a small bot named Turing. Turing claims to be the first sentient ROM, and he's in trouble. His creator, and your friend, Hayden has gone missing. Our little blue friend suspects foul play and needs your help in finding him and figuring out who kidnapped him and why. Along the way, you'll be encountering a coulourful bunch who may also help you find what you need if you play your cards right.



Since this is a point-and-click game, most of what you'll be doing is... pointing at things and clicking options. You can observe things, talk, use items, and touch, depending on what it is you point and click. You'll be given items and find some along the way to help you on your adventure, and you can interact with other things using certain items. There is of course puzzle solving, and it comes in a few different forms. There's also a mini-shooting game as well.



Talking is another big aspect of the game. Choosing to say or not say certain things can affect your story and who helps you or not. Choosing the order to do things in and who to place your trust in can also affect some of the story. This is a mystery, after all. The game is pretty easy to progress as most of the time you'll have your next destination marked on your map. You can also save or load at any time unless talking or in a scene. There are a few other quirky things to do here and there as well when you want a bit of a break from the story.



Overall this was an excellent game, and I liked it much more than I expected to. It starts off a bit slow, but it becomes very engaging and touching and does a good job of mood setting. I haven't played many point-and-click adventures and this one was pretty forgiving if you're new to the genre like me. There's a really good cast of characters and the game also has a pretty good sense of humour. It's good to play in small bursts or for a while if you're itching to see what happens next. Also, if you're looking for and want to support games with more gender and sexual diversity, I would definitely recommend giving this one a try if you want something story heavy. I was pleasantly surprised and very much enjoyed my time with it.

Verdict:
LOVED IT