As Long As You're Here Reviews
The subject matter is presented in creative, respectful, and effective ways, resulting in an ultimately cathartic experience, as challenging as it sometimes may be on a personal level.
A triumph of interactive storytelling. It stands as a sensitive, intelligent, and deeply affecting piece of art that understands the unique power of video games to build empathy. While it is a somber and often difficult journey, it is an exceptionally beautiful and important one.
There is no question in my mind: this game earns a full 5 out of 5 stars. It’s thoughtful, beautifully crafted, and lingers with you long after you set down the controller. If indie games are where the heart of storytelling lives, As Long As You’re Here is proof that the genre is alive, thriving, and capable of something profound.
Some may criticize As Long As You’re Here for its short, sixty-minute runtime, and a few might even consider refunding it on Steam. Yet, those who appreciate it for what it truly is—a poignant interactive experience about the far-reaching impact of Alzheimer’s—should see its value. Play it again, perhaps with family or friends, to foster awareness. The unforgettable impression this game leaves reminds us how vital it is to cherish every precious memory before it fades away.
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As Long As You’re Here does an excellent job of letting us see and feel what a person who has Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia is feeling. This one really struck home for me, as we are currently experiencing the same with my husband’s mother. When I wasn’t playing the game, it still stayed in my mind. I think it’s outstanding how creator Marlène Delrive managed this in what was initially an 8-week student project. She started working on this as a way of processing the grief and trying to understand her grandmother’s perspective in her final years, and you can experience it now, too. Often, we talk about the sons and daughters and their struggle to raise their own kids, and meanwhile, take care of their elderly parents. As Long As You’re Here goes into that angle as well, and I can sympathise with Annie’s daughter. But the main focus is Annie, not explaining her condition directly in the game, but letting you feel it yourself.