In a time where everything has to happen as fast as possible, a game like While Waiting gives you a needed break from the high-pace of life. Inviting players to embrace the often-overlooked art of patience. Developed by Optillusion, this game transforms everyday moments of waiting into a unique experience, guiding players through the life of an everyman named Adam.
The art of waiting
While Waiting presents a series of 100 small levels, each encapsulating a moment of anticipation in Adam’s life, from the innocent eagerness of childhood to the reflective pauses of old age. Players find themselves in scenarios such as awaiting a bus, enduring a tedious meeting, or anticipating a loved one’s arrival. The game offers a choice: passively observe the passage of time or engage with the environment to uncover subtle interactions. This duality encourages a near meditative experience, prompting introspection about our own responses to life’s interludes.
Each scenario is accompanied by a minimalist soundtrack, primarily composed of classical melodies that enhance the contemplative atmosphere. The controls are straightforward, utilizing standard movement keys and interaction buttons, allowing players to focus on the experience rather than complex mechanics. For those moments when patience wears thin, the game provides a digital fidget toy, clearly a nod to modern distractions, offering a playful means to occupy your mind while the waiting gets to you.
A deeper layer
The narrative structure of While Waiting is both its strength and its charm. By stitching together these waiting moments, the game crafts a portrayal of a life lived in the in-betweens. It’s a commentary on how much of our existence is spent in anticipation and how those seemingly insignificant periods are integral to our personal stories. The absence of a traditional, driving plot allows for a more personal connection, as players project their own experiences onto Adam’s journey. There’s something about this game that can definitely hit a couple of snares when you allow it to connect with you.
Visually, the game employs a minimalist art style resembling indie comics blended with the straightforwardness of instructional illustrations. This aesthetic choice strips away distractions, allowing players to focus on the essence of each scene. The environments, though simple, are rich with details that reflect Adam’s inner world and the passage of time. It’s a subtle reminder that even in simplicity, depth is all around us.
Conclusion:
While Waiting is not just a game; it’s an experience, a gentle nudge to recognize and appreciate the pauses that form our lives. It challenges the conventional need for constant action, offering instead a space for reflection and mindfulness. For those willing to embrace its unorthodox approach, While Waiting provides a rewarding and introspective journey that lingers long after the screen fades.
