During my young-adult years, I was fixated on the idea of creating a masterpiece. It wasn’t just about creating a work of art with a message; it felt like a necessity. My fear of mortality drove me to believe that I had to leave behind a legacy, similar to the filmmakers and playwrights I admired at the time. Although that sense of urgency has faded over the years, it has morphed into a persistent imposter syndrome that I still struggle with. There are moments when I doubt the quality of my writing or music, or feel resentful when a piece I’m proud of doesn’t receive the recognition I believe it deserves. It’s a cycle of self-doubt that I find difficult to break free from.
This may seem like a melodramatic way to introduce Starstruck: Hands of Time. Upon visiting the game’s Steam page, you might perceive it as a whimsical adventure inspired by games like Earthbound, Guitar Hero, and Katamari Damacy. However, beneath its bubbly exterior lies a deeper, more ominous undertone. It unfolds as a slowly brewing anxiety attack, making it one of the most unexpectedly profound games of 2024.
Embarking on a Cosmic Journey
Starstruck: Hands of Time kicks off in a lighthearted manner, as an astronaut travels back in time to investigate a mysterious mold that has infested the Earth in the future. Accompanied by a cheerful robotic sidekick, the astronaut visits a quaint town where they encounter a carefree young guitarist named Edwin. What begins as a seemingly ordinary suburban tale evolves into a wild four-hour adventure that defies expectations.
At the outset, Starstruck introduces us to Edwin, a budding musician striving for stardom in his small community. His initial quest involves performing at a local venue with his friends, setting a sweet tone reminiscent of Earthbound, a game known for its profound understanding of the struggles faced by young individuals. The game’s character designs, resembling clay models, pay homage to the physical figures used in Earthbound‘s original promotional material.
As the story unfolds, Starstruck delves deeper into gameplay surprises. From Guitar Hero-style rhythm games to Katamari Damacy-inspired smashing challenges, the game immerses players into a world filled with youthful energy and unexpected twists.
However, the game takes a dark turn as Edwin and his friends start confronting their inner anxieties. Imposter syndrome, the desire for recognition, and identity struggles surface, leading to a transformation in the game’s tone from cheerful to unsettling. The journey becomes a surreal exploration of existential dread, reminiscent of the narrative shifts seen in Neon Genesis Evangelion.
As the characters grapple with their fears and uncertainties, Starstruck spirals into a captivating yet perplexing exploration of the human psyche. It delves into themes of art theft, Roman history, and lunar expeditions, weaving a narrative tapestry that may seem disorienting but resonates on a profound level.
Despite its unconventional approach, Starstruck tells a poignant tale that lingers in the mind long after the game is over. It reflects the insecurities and desires for significance that many of us experience, reminding us of the profound beauty of simply existing in this vast universe.
Starstruck: Hands of Time is now available on PC.
