Really neat concept. Its a great idle game to check in on once in a while and enjoy all it's secrets over a long period of time. Feels really immersive because it is literally based on real time. And the only time the clock speeds up is when you're busy, so it even feels more real lol. Pretty cool execution of a great idea.

very relaxing gameplay, immersive world and cute drawingstyle. might have lost a couple of hours playing this, but was worth every hour

The Longing had been sitting on my Wishlist for while as visually and plot wise the game is unique. I was excited to jump in, however I learned quite quickly that this game is an experience meant to be episodic. This game goes against the grain of instant gratification and for some events to happen It requires patience as it follows the real-world units of time. In a way, this game functions more like an interactive art piece, rather than a traditional video game.

At the start of my game play I was intrigued and didn’t mind waiting for events and exploring the game’s map. Initially it worked well, as I could “check in” with the Shade while on study breaks. However, as the game went on, the emptier the world became. I recognize that this is probably intentional, but I wish the developer would have put more lore in the game to maybe fill the space. Once most of the map is discovered, it becomes tedious executing tasks, as the Shade has one very slow place; While the intent is for the player to jumping in and out of the game, there comes a point where it is ridicules having to launch, spend 5 or 10 minutes setting up the task and logging out, only to log back in later to move on to the next step.

I also take issue with the games replay-ability. I have read that The Longing is only intended to be played once, which I can understand, but that also means that the player is locked out of pursuing a different ending. This factor in combination with the hollowness of content in later game play makes it hard to say that The Longing is worth its $15 price tag.

Concept wise, the developer must be applauded as there is no other game like it. The story that we do get is charming and the developer has left small hints of lore for players to speculate over. The Longing is also thought provoking and distinctive in that the developer has created an environment in which the player truly can empathize with the Shade as we experience the small adventure, boredom, and desire for more as we navigate the game with them. The artwork is another highlight of the game, as it brings some levity to the more serious thought-provoking material of the story. Overall, I think this game is worth the experience, though you might want to consider picking it up on sale.