South Scrimshaw, Part One is a beautiful, horrifying, fascinating and heartbreaking nature documentary about ocean-life on an alien planet
First things’ first, there’s no actual gameplay in South Scrimshaw. It’s an experimental visual novel that plays out like a nature documentary set in the oceans of a distant alien planet. The whole thing is narrated, has some optional diversions and is beautifully illustrated with watercolors, ink and digital media.
The ecology on the alien planet documented in South Scrimshaw has some striking similarities to Earth’s, but there are some significant differences too. The story focuses on a young whale calf, with you following it from birth, up until adolescence. This particular species of whale has some very unusual characteristics that we won’t spoil here.
Taking 1-2 hours to play through, it’s an incredible experience that really immerses you in its underwater alien world. It has everything, joy, drama, horror and heartbreak. As far as documentary storytelling goes, it feels on a par with some of the great David Attenborough documentaries and you really become invested in the wellbeing of the little whale calf as it struggles to make sense of the world it’s been born into. Highly recommended.
Controls: Mouse – Point & Click
Available On: Windows (Steam)
Gameplay Video: Here
Download South Scrimshaw, Part One Here
Just came off of youtube and wanted to let you know this was a wonderful thing to witness. It felt very unique and was completely enjoyable, thank you.