Spiritfarer (2020)
Game Description:
In "Spiritfarer," released in 2020, you play as Stella, the new Spiritfarer, tasked with guiding spirits to the afterlife. Accompanied by your cat, Daffodil, you build and customize a boat to explore a beautifully hand-drawn world. Along the way, you befriend and care for spirits, fulfilling their last wishes and helping them come to terms with their pasts. Engage in activities like farming, mining, fishing, cooking, and crafting to support your journey. The game offers a heartfelt experience, focusing on themes of love, loss, and letting go. Enjoy two-player cooperative play, creating lasting memories with your spirit passengers before saying your final goodbyes. What legacy will you leave behind?
Game Details
Platforms:
PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One
Genres:
Platform, Simulator, Adventure, Indie
Game Mode(s):
Player Perspective(s):
Developer:
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Publisher:
ESRB Age Rating Summary:
Spiritfarer is rated T for Teen by the ESRB with Language, Use of Tobacco, and Violent References. This is an adventure game in which players assume the role of a young character (Stella) ferrying souls across the River Styx. Players traverse platforms while crafting materials, building cabins for spirits, and interacting with deceased characters. Characters describe past violence and/or cause of death in detail: “[A]s he runs towards us...we hear a very loud explosion and a big puff of smoke. A land mine...it was obvious he wouldn't make it”; “He grabs the guy, who's still hitting me with the bat...That guy has glass all over him. He's screaming repeatedly 'it's in my eyes, it's in my eyes!' Blood is coming out of his eyes...” During the course of the game, a character is frequently depicted smoking cigarettes. The words “sh*t” and “a*shole” appear in the dialogue.
Content Warnings:
Language, Use of Tobacco, Violent References
Interactive Elements:
In-Game Purchases:
Parental Notes
While many parents praise the gameplay experience, they caution that Spiritfarer contains some mature themes and language. The game includes mild profanity, with words like “sh*t” and “a*shole” appearing in dialogue. Although the violence is not graphic, there are detailed descriptions of past violent events and causes of death, which may be unsettling for younger players. Additionally, a character is frequently depicted smoking cigarettes. These elements lead many parents to recommend the game for teens 13 and older, as it explores themes of death and loss that might be too complex for younger children.
Positive Notes About The Game From ParentsParents appreciate Spiritfarer for its emotional depth and the way it handles themes of love, loss, and letting go. The game encourages empathy and understanding, offering a calm and reflective experience. Its cooperative play mode allows for shared experiences, fostering communication and teamwork. The creative storytelling and engaging activities like farming and crafting are seen as beneficial for developing problem-solving skills.
Why Your Kid Might Like Spiritfarer
Spiritfarer, released in 2020, offers a unique blend of adventure and emotional storytelling that resonates with teens. The game’s hand-drawn art style and serene atmosphere provide a relaxing escape, while its engaging narrative explores themes of love, loss, and acceptance. Teens appreciate the opportunity to connect with the diverse cast of characters, each with their own stories and personalities. The cooperative play option allows for shared experiences, making it a great choice for friends or siblings to enjoy together. The game’s balance of exploration and meaningful interactions keeps players engaged and invested in the journey.
Beyond the narrative, Spiritfarer offers a variety of activities like farming, fishing, and crafting, which add depth and variety to the gameplay. These elements encourage creativity and strategic thinking, appealing to teens who enjoy building and customizing their own spaces. The game’s pacing allows players to progress at their own speed, making it accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of skill levels. Spiritfarer’s heartfelt approach to storytelling and gameplay creates a memorable experience that many teens find both rewarding and thought-provoking, leaving a lasting impression long after the game is over.