While sound design is an integral component to gaming, it’s not often we see it utilized as a primary, and indispensable, gameplay mechanic. Enter Unheard, NEXT Studios‘s upcoming mystery set for release in January on Steam. In Unheard, you can’t afford to let your interest in the sound subside. Instead, sound is your best friend — and your only way to solve the crimes unraveling before you. Says the Unheard Steam page:
“Step through time as you use our device to eavesdrop on conversations from past crime scenes. Every clue, every move, and every motive will be presented in the form of audio. Rather than controlling any one character, you only need listen to their conversations, following along as the story evolves. Use the information you hear to match names to voices and determine how everything (and everyone) is related. Can you discover the truth?”
The story is non-linear and simulates real time, forcing you to make snappy decisions and follow your gut to the finale. NEXT Studios does throw players a bone, however, by allowing them to control time and explore every last whisper of conversation. Unheard is currently slated for a January release on PC, so count yourself lucky if you snag a pair of decent headphones for Christmas in preparation.
Game Pilgrim 