Dear Esther (2012)
An unconventional Source-engine mod that features a melancholic atmosphere. Originally a university research project, it experiments by removing most typical player interactions, while seeking to still create a strong player experience. It was released as a standalone experience in 2012.
First released
Feb 14, 2012
Developed by
The Chinese Room
Published by
The Chinese Room, Limited Run Games, Curve Games
Platforms
Mac, PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Linux
Genres
Adventure
Rating
PEGI: 12+
Releases
- MAC - Dear Esther United States
- PC - Dear Esther United States
- PC - Dear Esther: Landmark Edition (Steam) United Kingdom
- PC - Dear Esther: Landmark Edition (GOG) United Kingdom
- PS4 - Dear Esther: Landmark Edition United Kingdom
- PS4 - Dear Esther: Landmark Edition United States
Community reviews
Dear Esther Landmark Edition
Game: Dear Esther Landmark Edition
Genre: Adventure
Publisher/Developer: The Chinese Room
System: Steam (PC)
Total Score: 74/100
Value Score: 7.4/10
• Story: 8/10
• Characters: 5/10
• GamePlay: 7/10
• Graphics: 10/10
• Sound: 10/10
• Music: 8/10
• Length: 3/10
• Replay Value: 5/10
• Player Value: 8/10
Pros
+Amazing atmosphere and environment design
+Great OST that goes well with the atmosphere of the game
+Great narration and Voice acting
+Development Commentary is added
+Achievements added that increase replay value
+Credit issue from original game fixed
+Preview in graphics options issue fixed
+Better graphic options available due to new engine implementation
+Additional voice acting from the narrator has been added
+Visuals have improved compared to the original game's visuals
Cons
-Very Short
-Very simple gameplay and still no base characters
Genre: Adventure
Publisher/Developer: The Chinese Room
System: Steam (PC)
Total Score: 74/100
Value Score: 7.4/10
• Story: 8/10
• Characters: 5/10
• GamePlay: 7/10
• Graphics: 10/10
• Sound: 10/10
• Music: 8/10
• Length: 3/10
• Replay Value: 5/10
• Player Value: 8/10
Pros
+Amazing atmosphere and environment design
+Great OST that goes well with the atmosphere of the game
+Great narration and Voice acting
+Development Commentary is added
+Achievements added that increase replay value
+Credit issue from original game fixed
+Preview in graphics options issue fixed
+Better graphic options available due to new engine implementation
+Additional voice acting from the narrator has been added
+Visuals have improved compared to the original game's visuals
Cons
-Very Short
-Very simple gameplay and still no base characters