After Us: A Woke Video Game That Misses the Mark

In the world of video games, "After Us" is the latest attempt to shove a politically correct agenda down our throats. Developed by Piccolo Studio and released in May 2023, this game is set in a post-apocalyptic world where players take on the role of Gaia, a spirit tasked with reviving the planet after humanity has destroyed it. The game is available on multiple platforms, including PlayStation, Xbox, and PC, and it’s clear that the developers are trying to make a statement about environmentalism and human impact on the Earth. But let's be real, this game is more about virtue signaling than actual entertainment.

First off, the storyline is as predictable as it gets. Humanity has ruined the planet, and now it's up to a mystical being to save it. How original! It's the same tired narrative we've seen time and time again, repackaged with a shiny new coat of paint. The developers seem to think that by slapping a few environmental buzzwords into the mix, they can create a compelling story. Spoiler alert: they can't. The plot is as thin as a piece of recycled paper, and it’s about as exciting as watching paint dry.

The gameplay itself is another area where "After Us" falls flat. The mechanics are clunky, and the controls are anything but intuitive. Players are expected to navigate through a series of uninspired levels, solving puzzles that are more frustrating than challenging. It's as if the developers spent more time crafting their message than they did on creating a game that's actually fun to play. And let's not forget the graphics, which are mediocre at best. In an era where games are pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling, "After Us" looks like it was designed a decade ago.

Now, let's talk about the characters. Or rather, the lack thereof. Gaia, the protagonist, is about as interesting as a cardboard cutout. She’s a one-dimensional character with no depth or personality. The game tries to portray her as a savior of the planet, but she comes across as nothing more than a mouthpiece for the developers' agenda. There are no other significant characters to speak of, which makes the game feel empty and lifeless. It's hard to get invested in a story when there's no one to root for.

The environmental message in "After Us" is about as subtle as a sledgehammer. The game constantly beats players over the head with its preachy narrative, leaving no room for nuance or interpretation. It's as if the developers are more interested in lecturing players than entertaining them. This heavy-handed approach is not only off-putting, but it also detracts from the overall experience. A good game should weave its message into the story seamlessly, not shove it in your face at every turn.

And let's not ignore the fact that "After Us" is yet another example of the gaming industry's obsession with pandering to a certain demographic. It's clear that the developers are trying to appeal to a specific audience, one that values political correctness over quality content. But in doing so, they've alienated a large portion of gamers who just want to play a fun and engaging game. It's a classic case of style over substance, and it's a trend that's becoming all too common in the industry.

In the end, "After Us" is a game that tries too hard to be relevant and ends up being forgettable. It's a missed opportunity to create something truly special, and instead, it serves as a reminder of what happens when developers prioritize message over gameplay. If you're looking for a game that challenges you and keeps you entertained, look elsewhere. "After Us" is nothing more than a hollow attempt at making a statement, and it's not worth your time or money.