Introduction to Despelote

Despelote is an immersive gaming experience that delves into the memories of its co-creator, Julián Cordero, as he recounts his childhood in Quito, Ecuador, in the early 2000s. The game invites players to spend a few hours in this vibrant city, reliving the nationwide soccer fever that captivated the country. Wrapped in layers of static and shadow, Despelote follows an 8-year-old Cordero as he navigates his daily life, interacting with his family, attending school, and playing soccer with his friends.

The Game’s Narrative

The game is set in the summer of 2001, a pivotal moment in Ecuador’s history as the country is on the verge of qualifying for its first-ever World Cup. Soccer is an integral part of the game, serving as a storytelling mechanic that allows Cordero to express himself and connect with his community. As players progress through the game, they can engage in various soccer-related activities, such as playing a FIFA-style video game, watching World Cup matches on TV, and kicking a ball around with friends.

Immersive Gameplay

The game’s environments are meticulously crafted from photographs of Quito, stylized to mimic the fuzzy, dreamlike quality of memories. The sound design is equally impressive, incorporating actual recordings from Quito to capture the intimate conversations, inside jokes, and everyday chatter among Cordero’s friends and family members. Players can watch actual footage of the Ecuador team’s World Cup run on in-game TVs, adding to the sense of authenticity.

Simple yet Effective Mechanics

The game’s mechanics are intuitive, allowing players to easily navigate the world and engage with the environment. The controls are simple, with the right stick used to kick the ball, the triggers to run, and any button to interact with objects or characters. The game’s pace is deliberate, inviting players to slow down and appreciate the beauty of mundane moments. Transitions between scenes are seamless, with subtle camera zooms and slowly blurring environments that create a sense of continuity.

A Memoir in Video Game Form

Despelote is a unique gaming experience that blends the lines between memoir and video game. While games like That Dragon, Cancer and Dys4ia offer similar glimpses into their creators’ lives, Despelote stands out for its focus on the beauty of everyday life. The game’s poignant moments of magical surrealism add a touch of wonder, providing glimpses into Cordero’s future and Ecuador’s evolution as a country.

Conclusion

Despelote is a stellar addition to the category of memoir video games, proving that a thoughtful rumination on one person’s childhood can translate into a powerful interactive experience. The game’s authenticity is its strongest asset, making it a must-play for anyone looking for a unique and immersive gaming experience. With its availability on Steam, PlayStation 4, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S, Despelote is an experience not to be missed.

Get Your Copy of Despelote

You can purchase Despelote now on Steam, PlayStation 4, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S, published by Panic. Click here to buy