If you’ve been around video games for a while, you know that there is an abundance of similar games out there. The games where you repair, build, buy or sell items to make a profit, to then further your career. Well, that is a little bit like ReStory by developers Mandragora! Although in this game you’ll be repairing some tech that you might recognise. Well, kind of!
Iconic Tech In This ReStory
We got the opportunity to get some hands-on time today before it was officially shown off at the Wholesome Snack Game Awards. So just what makes ReStory different from all the other games of a similar formula? I can sum that up for you in one word: Nostalgia.
Gameplay
The game logo says it all. A pencil through one of the tape reels, just like we had to back in my childhood. This game exudes nostalgia, and I enjoyed every minute of the limited preview build. Just what do you get to experience though? You start up by being given access to a repair shop in a Y2K-era Japan. With a short tutorial, you are introduced to your landlord as well as a couple of quick-to-repair items.
Featuring some iconic pieces of 2000s technology, including instantly recognisable mobile phones and video game consoles. Even officially licensed Atari items are on show, my favourite task is when you get given two Atari joysticks, and you have to get at least one fully functioning. Among the other items you get your hands on are digital pets, home appliances, cameras and much more.
Even though the main gameplay loop is very straightforward, you simply click on the items to remove them. Then you can clean them up or repair broken parts. Then click and reinstall them. Add to that the shop where you can buy second-hand products and harvest the parts. Once you get through those parts, you start to scratch the surface on a pretty interesting narrative. Featuring some decision-making moments that will impact your shop.
As you play through more of the game, you get to expand your business. Eventually, move on to soldering and repainting your devices to bring them back to life. I can’t wait for more of this game to become playable so that I can live out my past.
Graphics & Audio
Loading up ReStory and straight away, you are greeted with beautiful graphics. With a cartoon-realism style that makes you truly believe you are fixing classic pieces of tech. Featuring great soundbites through the narrative, as well as a radio that you can put on and listen to some nice, relaxing music.
Longevity
The preview build gave me around an hour of gameplay, but in that time, I managed to repair plenty. A couple of torches, some Atari joysticks, a couple of Pokia phones and a couple of other bits and pieces. Each time repairing is slightly different, and even in some instances, buying from the store to get some of those working parts.
Final Thoughts
Even though I got a taste of a small portion of ReStory it has left me excited for the game when it releases in 2026. Mandragora has encapsulated the nostalgia of these incredible devices of yesteryear. I highly recommend checking out the Demo over on Steam!
I know I don’t have to score it as it’s a preview, but I just wanted to say thank you to Mandragora for helping me remember memories of my childhood that I thought long forgotten.
Disclaimer: A code was received in order to write this review.
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