Lieve Oma for Windows

Walking simulation for emotional reasons

Lieve Oma was released in 2016 by Florian Veltman. It is a short narrative. It can be played on Windows PC using a keypad, mouse, or a gamepad. It's more of an interactive novel and walking simulator than a fully-fledged game. The simple graphics and gentle music allow you to focus on the emotional story without being distracted.

You're likely to have been on a walk with your grandmother before. You begin at your grandmother's old car in a forest where you often walk together to pick mushrooms. But, a walk with grandma doesn't have to be a walk. Instead, you will be sharing your worries and fears with grandma while she offers loving support.

The gameplay is very simple and the soundtrack is perfect as background music. It is clear that Veltman wants to you to be focused on the story and feel all the emotions that it brings. Sometimes, your little character will jump between the present and the past, having two conversations with the same person.

Your character will start talking about school and family problems as you walk. These topics are very generic, but that's exactly what makes the game unique. It was genius to choose such common problems because the child in this game is likely dealing with issues you have already dealt with.

Don't expect to be swept away by the drama or have grand schemes. Its best qualities are its simplicity and relatability. All captured in an intimate setting without distractions except the occasional mushroom.

The game is an emotional trip down memory lane. However, there isn't much more to Lieve Oma other than a walk and a tale that will make your grandma miss you. Although the gameplay is simple, it's secondary to its narrative. If you are looking for action-packed twists and exciting gameplay, then Lieve Oma is not the game for you. If you are missing your granny, be prepared to cry.