BY: JUSTIN L. HARDIN

 

Unpacking, developed by Witch Beam, transforms the mundane task of unpacking boxes after a move into an artful story of growth and change told through a nameless protagonist’s possessions.

 

Unpacking was released in November of 2021 and has been described by developers as a “zen puzzle game.” The primary goal of each level is simple: unpack the boxes and put away all of the protagonist’s belongings.

 

Item placement follows conventional logic: things like towels, toilet paper, or toothbrushes all belong in the bathroom, while the toaster and the plates go in the kitchen. Once each item has found its home you may progress to the next level.

 

Across eight different levels there are 35 rooms ready to unpack and organize. Part of what makes the gameplay loop so satisfying is the sound design. Each item has a unique sound when picked up and sat down. This creates an immersive AMSR-like experience as the player works to organize their desk and shelves. I would describe the soundtrack as somber, as it creates a calm atmosphere in which to unpack.

 

Despite there being a complete lack of dialogue and no physical appearance from the main character throughout the course of the game, it is easy for the player to get to know her and develop an attachment to the character through her belongings alone.

 

The game takes place between 1997 and 2018, allowing players to observe the progression from her first bedroom featuring her stuffed animal collection to her forever home of adulthood, and all the spaces between.

 

Seeing new items added to the character’s collection is just as exciting as seeing what she decides to keep between moves. Items shown as part of the gameplay provide details and context for the day-to-day life of the off-screen protagonist. For example, items such as art supplies and a collection of sketchbooks are indicative of the character’s growing passion for art. Some details are not as easily discernible, however.

 

At one point in the game’s storyline, the protagonist goes through a break-up. During the process of her getting over her ex-partner, the player is tasked with determining the correct place to store a photo of the two of them. While the photo had previously been displayed proudly in the character’s home, it eventually makes its way inside a drawer.

 

This is just one example of how poignant the story beats for the title can be. After two full play-throughs – each taking roughly two hours – and collecting every achievement for the game, I would highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a fun puzzle game to relax and unwind with.

 

“Zen puzzle game” is truly the best possible gameplay descriptor for this title. The story was just as much fun to unpack as were the main characters’ belongings (pun intended). I would give Unpacking my own personal rating of 8/10. You can pick it up today available on Switch, Xbox, PS4, PS5, and PC.

 

Photo: ‘Unpacking’ Artwork – Witch Beam – Fair Use

 

 

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

 

– Justin L. Hardin is a contributing writer for Digital Wax. Through a wealth of experience in various entertainment mediums, he offers expertise in video games, sports, comic books, movies, U.S. history, and more.