Three Twenty One (3:21) is an incredible first person narrative adventure that sees you playing faux retro video games from different eras as it relays it’s powerful, personal and heartbreaking story.
Note: The Following article does contain some minor spoilers so we’d recommend playing Three Twenty One (3:21) before reading on. It really is a fantastic game, but the puzzles can be quite hard to wrap your head around initially, so if you get stuck check out this play through video here.
Three Twenty One (3:21) is a game like no other, with high fidelity visuals, creative puzzle design, innovative game-within-a-game gameplay and an emotional narrative. It’s played out in first person, with you exploring different places from your past that are connected together via a hospital corridor. In most of these spaces you’ll come across retro gaming computers, such as the Amstrad CPC 464 or a 90’s IBM PC. On these computers you’ll find games that you have to complete to progress the story, ranging from a classic text based adventure to (a fairly basic) 3D platformer. It’s a very clever touch that not only helps to progress the narrative, but also feels like you’re playing through a brief history of video games.
Unfortunately, some of the puzzles can be quite obtuse and may cause some players to bounce off of it (which is why it’s received mixed reviews on Steam), but for those that manage to see it through, Three Twenty One (3:21) is one of the most powerful gaming experiences we’ve you’ll ever witness. There are some frustrations (a skip puzzle option may be a good idea), but If you’re not reduced to tears by the end of Three Twenty One then there’s a good chance you don’t have a soul. Very highly recommended.
Controls: Mouse & Keyboard
Available On: Windows
Full Walkthrough Videos: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 & Bonus Content
Note: Three Twenty One (3:21) is free but any contributions go to a very good cause. If you enjoy the game, any contributions are appreciated and you can even purchase the soundtrack & extra content (which has an entirely new adventure included) here or via Steam
Download Three Twenty One Here or Here (Steam)