Like No Other: The Legend of the Twin Books, is an adventure of a lifetime in finding literature. Like No Other is not just about literature, it is also about what truly makes a game. Is it the amount of playtime you can put into it, or is it the story you the player go through and how it reverberates throughout your soul? I say this because Like No Other is a short game, but it tries to push the boundary with ideas and concepts. So, before we move forward, a SPOILER alert is a must for those who would love to enjoy Like No Other: The Legend of the Twin Books in its entirety.
Like No Other: The Legend of the Twin Books follows the story of Dan, a gentleman who considers himself to be somewhat of an adventurer. Dan is also a seasoned reader, resolved to solve a mystery while investigating local myths around a book in Red Pines known as the Spirits’ Book. Dan believes that a convincing fake was used in lieu of the original book, and if that is the case, the original book must be found and saved no matter how long it may take. Even though Dan isn’t a whip-wielding, fedora-wearing archaeologist, he has a lot of heart. Like No Other: The Legend of the Twin Books demonstrates that even the most novice explorer can make spectacular discoveries.
Like No Other: The Legend of the Twin Books has outstanding artwork. The game’s whole graphic design was produced by hand and bright colors were used throughout the color schemes. Even commonplace objects like piles of boxes and simple litter on the floor acquired stronger variations of their typical colors. The few NPCs who appeared during the game, as well as Dan’s attire, stood out against the background. Personally, I think the visual appeal of the game is just as impressive. The artwork was accompanied by minimal musical recordings. There might not have been a sizable orchestra or band. However, it did not diminish the allure that the background music offered.
As Like No Other: The Legend of the Twin Books is a point-and-click title, the controls were straightforward. Aside from the usual W, A, S, and D configuration and the point-and-click side, the tab opened up the inventory, and space allowed Dan to jump in certain instances. Every important step in the title felt like a mini-game, and it was something that might invoke a sense of childhood nostalgia in many people. Most of the gameplay is easy and standard for point-and-click. For example, when players have to enter the museum, they will have to find the correct manhole to be able to enter it. The tall grass does not block much and once you open the correct manhole, the game notifies you immediately. Players have several instances like this one throughout the story.
Sneaking past a handful of wolves was interesting. Dan would begin sneaking around cartoon style and even has a sound go with each step the player takes. The wolves have visible cones of sight, Metal Gear style, which makes it easy for players to gauge where it’s best to avoid them finding them. It is not as simple as it may seem though. Dan would run hysterically to safety if a wolf saw him for an extended period of time. The animation of his escape was the best part of this. Only one leg appeared to be animated as he fled in fright. The wolves add a great task to the game as it had a little challenge and was a great comical relief. The Roomba grab is another story. The player is tasked with grabbing one to access some locked rooms. Players cannot simply just chase the Roomba down but have to use bottles from a nearby dispenser to lure the little bot. The Roomba is not very sensitive and may take a few tries to finally get it caught.
Like No Other: The Legend of the Twin Books is more than a simple point-and-click adventure. It may be short but has a lot to offer. Some unique mechanics, like the puzzles, the beautifully drawn graphics, and the minor details that all add up. Like No Other is a great little adventure that everyone should try, and we will hopefully see Dan again in a new adventure.
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