Lost Records: Bloom & Rage – Totally Rad, Hella Mysterious, and All That

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage (Tape One) transports players into a dual-timeline narrative, oscillating between the vibrant summer of 1995 and the reflective year of 2022.

Still from the Title Screen—Lost Records: Bloom & Rage

Developed by Don’t Nod’s Montreal studio, the game masterfully intertwines themes of friendship, nostalgia, and mystery, offering an immersive experience that resonates deeply with both the heart and mind.

A Journey Between Eras

“Lost Records: Bloom & Rage” is a narrative-driven thriller adventure that explores the complexities of friendship, identity, and the passage of time. Set against the backdrop of 1995 and 2022, players navigate the intertwined lives of four women brought together by music and separated by unforeseen events.

The game introduces us to Swann, a 16-year-old navigating the complexities of adolescence in the quaint town of Velvet Cove, Michigan. Facing an impending move to Vancouver, Swann’s solitary world expands when she befriends Nora, Autumn, and Kat. Together, they form the riot grrrl band “Bloom & Rage,” channeling their youthful angst and aspirations into music. Their discovery of a secluded shack in the woods becomes a sanctuary, fostering creativity and deepening their bond. However, an event during that pivotal summer casts a shadow over their friendship.

Fast forward to 2022, the once inseparable friends have drifted apart, leading distinct lives. A mysterious package compels them to reunite in their hometown, forcing them to confront the unresolved mysteries of their past and the lingering impact of that fateful summer.

Still from the first scene of the game—Lost Records: Bloom & Rage

Immersive 90s Nostalgia

“Lost Records” excels in recreating the mid-90s ambiance, immersing players in a meticulously crafted teenage bedroom adorned with era-specific artifacts. From the familiar hum of a VHS tape rewinding to the pixelated pets of a Tamagotchi, the game evokes a profound sense of nostalgia.

Still of a novel that main character, Swann, has sitting on her bookshelf—Lost Records: Bloom & Rage.

Players can interact with a camcorder, capturing moments that can be replayed, blurring the lines between gameplay and memory.

This mechanic not only enriches the narrative but also serves as a poignant reminder of the impermanence of youth and the memories we choose to preserve.

Engaging Gameplay Mechanics

The camcorder is more than a nostalgic prop; it’s integral to the gameplay. Players are encouraged to document their journey, with the option to review and edit footage, adding a layer of personalization to the experience.

Recorded Capture from Swann's Room from 1995—Lost Records: Bloom & Rage

This feature enhances the storytelling, allowing players to see the world through Swann’s eyes and delve deeper into her psyche. The game’s dialogue system captures the spontaneity and chaos of teenage conversations, with overlapping voices and dynamic choices that influence relationships and story progression.

Recorded Capture of Swann's Hike through the Forrest—Lost Records: Bloom & Rage

Embracing the ARG Experience

For those eager to extend their immersion beyond the main storyline, “Lost Records” offers an Alternate Reality Game (ARG) that delves deeper into the game’s universe. More to come on this as it progresses.

---

Final Thoughts

In essence, Lost Records: Bloom & Rage (Tape One) is more than a game; it’s a heartfelt exploration of the ties that bind us, the memories that define us, and the secrets that can alter the course of our lives. As players traverse the landscapes of youth and adulthood, they’re invited to reflect on their own journeys, making “Lost Records” a truly transformative experience.