To the Moon

 PC
User Score
8.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1509 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,322 out of 1509
  2. Mixed: 119 out of 1509
  3. Negative: 68 out of 1509

Review this game

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
view
per page
  1. casellacrack
    Apr 1, 2012
    10
    Freebirds has created a small gem. To The Moon is a work of adult and touching able to thrill as only a good book is capable of doing. However, because of it, presents a unique and linear that sometimes leaves more space to the plot than the phases of the game, so make the most of passive readers to active players. So if you are looking for a dynamic and interactive way, you should lookFreebirds has created a small gem. To The Moon is a work of adult and touching able to thrill as only a good book is capable of doing. However, because of it, presents a unique and linear that sometimes leaves more space to the plot than the phases of the game, so make the most of passive readers to active players. So if you are looking for a dynamic and interactive way, you should look the other way, but if you want a story full of emotions, accompanied by an excellent soundtrack and you're willing to accept some compromises in terms of gameplay, then it you can certainly leave it to escape.… Expand
  2. popfg
    Jan 20, 2013
    10
    I absolutely love this game. Fantastic Storytelling, an emotional plot. This is one of the few games I would classify as "perfect". As in I couldn't find any flaws with this game. For 10 dollars you could do a whole lot worse.
  3. Danyuul
    Nov 23, 2012
    10
    An amazing little indie game that cuts down on gameplay in favour of a beautiful, memorable and touching storyline, I even found myself tearing up in certain scenes with the help of the top-notch soundtrack, and i'm the type of guy that cries probably once or twice a century. If you get this game make sure you play through the entire game before making your judgement, it's well worth it,An amazing little indie game that cuts down on gameplay in favour of a beautiful, memorable and touching storyline, I even found myself tearing up in certain scenes with the help of the top-notch soundtrack, and i'm the type of guy that cries probably once or twice a century. If you get this game make sure you play through the entire game before making your judgement, it's well worth it, and IMHO better than the majority of movies released nowadays. beautiful beautiful beautiful!… Expand
  4. dereknor
    Nov 28, 2013
    10
    Its much better then I ever expected. I expected some kind of asian RPG game. But its a great story, told by the tools of an old RPG like game. I couldnt stop playing it untill I finished it. Its a real treasure, I would really miss the experiance if I never bought that game.
  5. TechDave
    Dec 22, 2012
    10
    Its just beautiful and so emotive, you wont be let down! a must have game for anyone and everyone! there is something really captivating about the entire game its simple yet brilliant!
  6. cleverest
    Aug 4, 2013
    10
    Any other game like this, one with less of a magnificent story, I would be tempted to rate it less than a 10, merely because there isn't much "game" in the actual playing here, it IS visually similar to 16-bit style RPG's of yesteryear, but lacks any real inventory (the one in the game is useless to game-play, just exists for a little extra reading material), no stats here, no characterAny other game like this, one with less of a magnificent story, I would be tempted to rate it less than a 10, merely because there isn't much "game" in the actual playing here, it IS visually similar to 16-bit style RPG's of yesteryear, but lacks any real inventory (the one in the game is useless to game-play, just exists for a little extra reading material), no stats here, no character advancement, no combat, etc..the game play involved basically talking to characters and solving very easy little quick puzzles flip board puzzles as you unlock new memories/sequences in the games progressing story.

    Sound dreadful? I certainly hope not! This "game" has one of the greatest soundtracks I've ever heard, it's truly GORGEOUS and moving, and the story is incredibly deep and satisfying, don't be surprised when you tear up, man or woman, it's having that affect on so many for a reason! this is not a random crises of cry-babies among a ton of video game nerds, the story really IS that good.

    Call it a game or an 'interactive story', whatever you want, BUT BUY IT NOW and support this true work of art. I eagerly away the episode 2 and "a Bird Story" by freebirdgames, just take my wallet already!!    … Expand
  7. EnokiEmperor
    May 28, 2013
    9
    I really enjoyed the story and fell in love with this game. I know it doesn't renovate gaming and at times can be cheesy. But that's what i liked about it.

    The graphics were Ok, maybe something like a anime graphic novel could have been really cool too. The music at times were sometimes intense but only added to the emotion the team was hoping for the user to feel during some of    I really enjoyed the story and fell in love with this game. I know it doesn't renovate gaming and at times can be cheesy. But that's what i liked about it.

    The graphics were Ok, maybe something like a anime graphic novel could have been really cool too.

    The music at times were sometimes intense but only added to the emotion the team was hoping for the user to feel during some of the story.

    The only thing i can knock if i had to are the controls. At times it was a little frustrating trying to move with the mouse. I ended up using the arrow keys to get around to finish the game.

    I hope to see more from this team both in narrative and music.

    Thanks Freebird

    -Eno-    … Expand
  8. Vinyl7th
    Nov 5, 2013
    10
    I stumbled upon this game last night, wading through the reviews of "Different" RPGs, looking for something fresh. I looked at the trailer for this game and thought that the concept was compelling, but I wasn't sure if it would be worth the money on steam. Against my initial judgement, I decided to try it out.

    What a decision. The game took me 4 hours to complete, short by RPG    I stumbled upon this game last night, wading through the reviews of "Different" RPGs, looking for something fresh. I looked at the trailer for this game and thought that the concept was compelling, but I wasn't sure if it would be worth the money on steam. Against my initial judgement, I decided to try it out.

    What a decision.

    The game took me 4 hours to complete, short by RPG standards, but it was 4 of the most heart-wrenching, loveably inspiring hours Ive ever had in gaming. Now to be fair, this "game" is less of a game and more of a point and click interactive novel, but it does what it sets out to do flawlessly. The graphics are appropriate, the writing is clever, funny and gut-twistingly sad and the musical score is nothing short of a masterpiece. .

    I may have gotten on the shuttle to the moon a little later than most gamers, but I have never been more satisfied with my ticket. This game won my heart, and is easily the most touching game I have ever played.

    10/10 Would pay more than triple the price for.    … Expand
  9. empresshobbit
    Jan 13, 2014
    9
    To the Moon is one of the best games I have ever played. The music is beautiful and the plot makes you think of the people and things closest to you. Absolutely beautiful game.
  10. Andromeda12
    Jan 29, 2014
    10
    When I started playing this, I didn't expect much from it. I though it was going to be a sort of puzzle RPG about some boy's dream of going to them moon. I was so wrong.
    This is one of the best games I have ever played. It's not as much a game as it is an interactive story that will blow you off your feet and cry like a 2 year old. Everything in this work of art is pure perfection: the    When I started playing this, I didn't expect much from it. I though it was going to be a sort of puzzle RPG about some boy's dream of going to them moon. I was so wrong.
    This is one of the best games I have ever played. It's not as much a game as it is an interactive story that will blow you off your feet and cry like a 2 year old. Everything in this work of art is pure perfection: the story, the setting, the characters, the plot twist and above all the soundtrack which make everything come together perfectly.
    If there was a Nobel prize for gaming perfection, this would be the winner. I recommend it to anyone who loves a good story. Don't be discouraged by the 2D graphics or whatever else because this game will surprise in you and keep you glued to the screen up to the very end!
    This games deserves a 50 out of 10!    … Expand
  11. SmallRedMachine
    Sep 7, 2017
    3
    I am an avid adventure games player and unfortunately I'm just dragging myself to finish this game just because I spent money on this. I initially thought this is kind of an adventure game which totally was not, I was ok with the retro graphics because that usually means in this day and age that the developers focused on the gameplay instead but To The Moon is barely a game so.

    The    I am an avid adventure games player and unfortunately I'm just dragging myself to finish this game just because I spent money on this. I initially thought this is kind of an adventure game which totally was not, I was ok with the retro graphics because that usually means in this day and age that the developers focused on the gameplay instead but To The Moon is barely a game so.

    The humor was really weak, disliked the two main characters, it just came off very childish and I felt being too old to play this game. Definitely overrated when you compare the story telling and gameplay to Telltale games, To The Moon is not the total package and the rating it received is misleading.    … Expand
  12. hazy7687
    Oct 23, 2012
    5
    I was very excited to finally get my hands on To the Moon, I had purposely waited for it to come to Steam, and once it did I wasted no time securing a copy and playing through it. However, I'm afraid I found this game to be a bit overrated.

    I knew going in what the graphics looked like, I knew the game was mainly about story so game play was going to be lacking, and I knew it was an    I was very excited to finally get my hands on To the Moon, I had purposely waited for it to come to Steam, and once it did I wasted no time securing a copy and playing through it. However, I'm afraid I found this game to be a bit overrated.

    I knew going in what the graphics looked like, I knew the game was mainly about story so game play was going to be lacking, and I knew it was an indie so at the end of the day it simply wasn't going to have that polished big game feel. I was perfectly fine with all those things, I just wanted a good story. The story is To the Moon is toted as its crowning achievement, and after reading the short summary I figured it would be. Sadly the story simply falls flat and has too many inconsistencies and cliches for my taste. First you have one of the main characters who is almost a pure annoyance. The character acts like a teenager, and not even a mature teenager, an average immature, annoying teenager. Yet this character is presented as a scientist and has Dr. at the beginning of his name. His dialogue constantly pulled me out of the story and made me wonder why he was written the way he was. Clearly he was meant to be a form of comedic relief but I found the whole concept to be unnecessary as the story is supposed to be serious and emotional. His counter part wasn't all the much better.

    The story is supposed to be deep and thought provoking, yet it often tries way too hard to be comedic to the point where its not taking itself seriously. The whole time I got a sense that this story was conceived by two young, probably high school level guys, one who wanted to tell a serious story and the other who wanted to get cheap laughs. Unfortunately both of them fell short. The story tries way to hard, and ultimately uses too many cliche formulas. I won't go further into them because it would be too hard to avoid spoilers. I was really let down by the way the story was handled, it could have been really great but it simply fell flat. In the end I feel in falls in that category of "oh its a good story, for a video game..." which really isn't saying much. If this were presented as a book or movie I think it would be altogether ignored. . The game play is practically non-existent and consists of walking a few steps, clicking through some dialogue and solving a simple puzzle. Which would have been fine if the story held up it's end. I will say the music was really well done though and fit quite well. In the end To the Moon really didn't do it for me, but I can see why people praise it. It does try to be different and its story has real potential. Given some tweaking this could be a remarkable story and game, but as is its not worth the $10 imo.    … Expand
  13. kozzy420
    Nov 24, 2011
    9
    Amazing role-playing game that pushes the boundaries of what videogames are, as it rival's on true art!

    I have never once in my 25 years of gaming felt so many emotions as with To The Moon. Sometimes I would be laughing at the funny dialogue, other times I wouuld be nearly in tears and others I was just having a super fun time. The story and characters are top notch and the soundtrack is    Amazing role-playing game that pushes the boundaries of what videogames are, as it rival's on true art!

    I have never once in my 25 years of gaming felt so many emotions as with To The Moon. Sometimes I would be laughing at the funny dialogue, other times I wouuld be nearly in tears and others I was just having a super fun time.

    The story and characters are top notch and the soundtrack is tied with Skyrim's soundtrack as the best of this year. Also the dialogue is well done as is the atmosphere, for a indie group this is a fantastic game that makes alot of mainstream rpgs seem very poorly made.

    This game was a blast and while it only lasted 6 hours, it was some of the best 6 hours ive had gaming in ages, near perfection right here people, do yourself a favor and go pick up this amazing and moving videogame.    … Expand
  14. Prettypinkcloud
    Sep 24, 2014
    0
    A friend recommended this game to me, although I will say now, whenever I use the word "game" here I am referring to "To the Moon" for the sake of simplicity. A Choose Your Own Adventure book involves more gameplay than this did. For this reason (and because it's already overrated here), I give this game a 0.

    The only part of the game where you feel like you're "playing" anything is    A friend recommended this game to me, although I will say now, whenever I use the word "game" here I am referring to "To the Moon" for the sake of simplicity. A Choose Your Own Adventure book involves more gameplay than this did. For this reason (and because it's already overrated here), I give this game a 0.

    The only part of the game where you feel like you're "playing" anything is towards the end when your coworker takes over the memories and it feels a little chaotic, but even then if you take a step back and realize it, there's still only 1 thing to do and that's press the arrow keys toward the rest of the story.

    I feel like To The Moon would have made a somewhat less inconsequential animated feature film considering any interaction the player has with this game is literally just moving from one dialogue to the next. The little requisite puzzles that hinder your progress to the next memory jump offer no meaning, reasoning or challenge. They're just...there.

    ***

    But on to the story. To The Moon's story feels like a slow stroll down a path you've never been but you know exactly where you're going. There are supposed to be a couple of A HA moments, but they're so contrived that I actually chuckled when they happened. I was trying to convince myself that they were too obvious and the story would go a different direction. But it didn't. And anyone who paid attention and has read or watched anything in the last 20 years would know exactly what will be happening.

    And the sad attempts at base comedy are, for some reason, being lauded on many of the other reviews. I'm not quite sure why someone would find kindergarten humor funny. But maybe the joke's on me and i'm actually too old for this game altogether.    … Expand
  15. drh3010
    Apr 29, 2013
    4
    Being a 40 year old gamer, I don't understand why this game is rated so high. I support independent games, many are quite good despite minor flaws, but this one's feeble attempt at humor is particularly groan-worthy. I may let my 7 year old niece play to see if she thinks it's funny. Apart from the poor dialog perhaps lost in translation, the gameplay is ok with only a few nuances and theBeing a 40 year old gamer, I don't understand why this game is rated so high. I support independent games, many are quite good despite minor flaws, but this one's feeble attempt at humor is particularly groan-worthy. I may let my 7 year old niece play to see if she thinks it's funny. Apart from the poor dialog perhaps lost in translation, the gameplay is ok with only a few nuances and the story is nice so I give it a 4 for that.… Expand
  16. Egres
    Oct 27, 2014
    4
    It's is no game at all. It is cartoon, book, whatever, but not the game. 95% of 'game' time is not interactive and 95% of these 5% can be changed to "press any key". I can't explain these high ratings myself. I think the game must have something more than good plot, but not in this case, apparently.

    P.S. The story itself is very touching and interesting enough.
  17. M000se
    Sep 16, 2013
    10
    I had to make a quick account on here for the sole purpose of letting you know how good this game is. It is one of the best stories and most well written games I've ever played. Very original story on top of well written dialogue as well as fantastic music. Some people are saying the game play was too slow and boring, personally, I never noticed. I was so invested in the story and theI had to make a quick account on here for the sole purpose of letting you know how good this game is. It is one of the best stories and most well written games I've ever played. Very original story on top of well written dialogue as well as fantastic music. Some people are saying the game play was too slow and boring, personally, I never noticed. I was so invested in the story and the characters that nothing else mattered besides finding out what happens. Anyways I'll wrap this up and simply say, it's an amazing experience and at a very reasonable price. Buy this game!… Expand
  18. TitaniumDragon
    Jan 3, 2015
    7
    This is not a game in any real sense. While it is “interactive” in the sense that you move around the environment and interact with objects, in truth the interactivity is an illusion; yoru movement in the environment is about as interactive as turning a page in a book most of the time, and at times is actually more tedious because you have to search for where you need to click to get toThis is not a game in any real sense. While it is “interactive” in the sense that you move around the environment and interact with objects, in truth the interactivity is an illusion; yoru movement in the environment is about as interactive as turning a page in a book most of the time, and at times is actually more tedious because you have to search for where you need to click to get to the “next page” – in the case of this game, the next bit of dialogue or cut scene. The only real “game” elements it contains is a single game of whac-a-mole towards the very end – which you do not need to succeed at to progress in the game, and which actually has no impact on the game at all, as far as I can tell – and some simplistic tile-flip puzzles which are present for the first third or so of the game. These feel wholly out of place in the game and are simply discarded later on. There is no possibility of failure in the game, and the one section that might feel remotely “game-like” is mostly just tediously walking down a hallway for about five minutes – if that. In the end, it is much closer to a movie than anything else – and most likely, should have been exactly that.

    The story ultimately has four main characters. Dr. Eva Rosalene and Dr. Neil Watts are the two primary protagonists of the game, and are who the player controls throughout the length of the story. They work for the Sigmund Corporation, a corporation which specializes in rewriting the memories of dying people so that they can experience a different life in which a single wish comes true. The way this is accomplished is by entering the minds of the dying person, viewing their memories, and going back to their childhood and implanting a very strong desire to complete whatever one wish they wanted to see; because they would have a singular, powerful drive their whole life to achieve that goal, their mind will simulate them succeeding at that task (most of the time, anyway; it is implied that it is not foolproof, but that it is pretty reliable) and they will live out their dream in their mind before dying.

    The inspiration from is obvious, but the game itself has a very different take on things; the goal, in the end, is very different, and the Sigmund Corporation is paid to by the dying people to grant these mental wishes. We immediately see that Dr. Neil Watts is the funny, goofy, eccentric guy, while Eva Rosalene is the competent, no-nonsense character; even still, both have their moments of seriousness and comedy, and Dr. Neil Watts is definitely a Jerk with a Heart of Gold type character, who tries to cover up his soft spots whenever he does not absolutely have to do so.

    In the end, the story took a fairly long time to get through, and I got the feeling that it would have made more sense as a movie than it did as a “video game” – moving around in the environment was mostly unnecessary tedium, and the game at times went into cutscenes which showed that it could have simply been a movie the whole way through. It would have gone by a lot more quickly, and likely been several hours shorter as more of a visual novel or movie-like experience, and I think I would have enjoyed it more as such. The pacing was a bit of a problem in places, particularly towards the end when Eva sets everything up for the grand finale off-screen without explaining it to Neil (and thus, the player), creating some unnecessary tension between the two for no good in-character reason. The sequence could have been greatly shortened, made much more visually interesting, and it still would have worked; instead, it felt weird and unnecessarily drawn-out.

    There were also a few moments of extreme strangeness. Perhaps the greatest is when the characters at the start of the second act of the story, unable to figure out how to get Johnny to want to go to the Moon, start bursting into Johnny’s memories at random to pitch the idea of going to the Moon to him. While the characters at this point are very sleep deprived, the mood whiplash in this section of the story is severe, as went from some fairly serious memories with humor thrown in to lighten the mood to frenetic comedic action on the part of both of the protagonists. While the humor which was interspersed into the rest of the game actually worked pretty well, the humor in that particular section felt off and too extreme; it is never mentioned again afterwards.

    All that aside, the core of the story worked well enough, and while it wasn’t as good of a story as the one I made up in my mind about halfway through the game, I can’t say that I disliked it or felt like the game cheated me, and am interested in seeing if they do something else interesting with the characters in the future.    … Expand
  19. ma7ter
    Feb 26, 2012
    10
    This game is AWESOME!i had a feeling that i wasn't playing this game.The game was playing with my emotions.Sometimes it was really funny.Sometimes really sad.If you like the games with great stories , you MUST play this one
  20. AthanasiosT
    Dec 26, 2013
    10
    If you expect the following, DO NOT play this game Frenetic action, shooting around, scary horror, extreme hard puzzles, super 3d graphics, first person view. Why play it Incredible music, fantastic scenario and story, old-school adventure style, relaxing pace. Congratulations to the designers.
  21. Dasor
    Dec 1, 2012
    10
    I've heard of this game from a friend who had already finished it so i bought it. At the beginning the lack of voice over was very awful but after the first 20 minutes of playing the story just begun to be awesome and i couldn't stop playing so i finished it in one time... the game lasts about 4 hours and I've been crying for 2 of them... surely one of the best stories i have everI've heard of this game from a friend who had already finished it so i bought it. At the beginning the lack of voice over was very awful but after the first 20 minutes of playing the story just begun to be awesome and i couldn't stop playing so i finished it in one time... the game lasts about 4 hours and I've been crying for 2 of them... surely one of the best stories i have ever read/played/heard of… Expand
  22. Piscaso
    Jul 18, 2013
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This game was truly something. I remember hearing about it from PewDiePie's play through in my suggested videos on Youtube. Apparently it was "sad". I didn't see a reason to buy it though. Suddenly, a wild Steam Summer Sale appeared! It was $3. THREE DOLLARS. I bought it and I guess it was pretty funny! I liked all the characters even the ones we get to know nothing about. I didn't see why it was so good yet. So funny funny blah blah. Then... The adventure truly begins. And after a quick conversation we're on our quest take him to the moon! So we go backwards through his memories. I thought they were kinda cheesy. But as I went back and see the setup I realized that it wasn't cheesy. It was more like walking into the end of a movie. "What could've happened to make this cheesy end?" Suddenly as we go to his teenage years I got to the point where I was HOOKED. HOOKED I TELL YOU. Then Act 1 ends. Act 2 ends. Act 3 commences. I was sort of interested in what would happen... I had no idea what was going to happen. After that part of the game I don't know how I didn't fall out my chair crying my eyes out. I might have overreacted because I could relate to some of the characters pretty well. I won't say what happens but I cried. ;_;
    There is no way to summarize this game in one word. The least is two.
    Funny and *SOB*
    BUY THIS GAME.
    It's a MUST PLAY!    … Expand
  23. mmmMatto
    Apr 24, 2014
    3
    Totally disappointed.

    The story is bland, not the eloquent tearjerker everyone says it is. It tries to be moving and thoughtful, but it's at the complexity level of a 7th grade creative writing assignment, and I found the comic relief segments irritating. Playing through to the end was a chore, and the finale wasn't worth the effort. I had to play in short sessions because it became so    Totally disappointed.

    The story is bland, not the eloquent tearjerker everyone says it is. It tries to be moving and thoughtful, but it's at the complexity level of a 7th grade creative writing assignment, and I found the comic relief segments irritating. Playing through to the end was a chore, and the finale wasn't worth the effort. I had to play in short sessions because it became so tedious. A 4-hour game took me a couple weeks to finish up.

    There isn't much to the game play. There's no challenge, no puzzles. You wander around locating the people and items needed to progress the story and they're only there to give you something to do.

    I believed the hype and was let down by Gone Home, and wasn't surprised to find hundreds of user reviews sharing my sentiment. This time I payed attention to the hundreds of 9s and 10s from users rather than critics and now I'm baffled by the responses. I really do want to find a game with a moving, emotional story with characters I can get to know on an intimate level and empathize with, and I just can't seem to find it.

    I'm 30-something. If I had played this game in 5th grade I might have been more moved. I think someone that age might get more out of it than I did. Show it to some kids and see what they think.    … Expand
  24. Tritten
    Jan 8, 2014
    1
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It might be because I actually have the condition River has and I was able to tell what was going on right from the moment Isabelle mentioned 'neurotypical', but I found the game to be incredibly boring. I did play it through to the end, but I was getting more and more frustrated as it was turning out that nothing major was going to happen.

    The puzzles are extremely easy, there's one spot that is not intended to be difficult to get over but it is (the end of the horse-riding scene) and the rest of the game play consists of running around the screen finding places where the cursor changes shape, then clicking them. That's it.

    Also, I've found the dialogues of the two doctors very annoying towards the end. They just keep talking and talking.

    Overall, it's really nice that someone out there made a game featuring Asperger's (although it's never directly mentioned), but I still think the game sucks.

    Major spoiler: River died because she demanded that her husband use the money for her treatment to finish the house that she won't be able to live in and keep the lighthouse (which she named Anya) company? Really??? WTF!? The ending was, for me, 'meh', so the only tears I'm crying right now are of frustration over spending an afternoon playing this game.    … Expand
  25. timmytime
    Dec 12, 2013
    5
    I really didn't like the dialogue in this game. A good example that summarises the problem is this; there is a character who has clocks in his house that never tick. Later on, you witness an earlier memory in which he asks to have a clock switched off because the ticking sound is annoying his girlfriend. Then, other characters, witnessing the memory, say "Oh, so that's why the clocks don'tI really didn't like the dialogue in this game. A good example that summarises the problem is this; there is a character who has clocks in his house that never tick. Later on, you witness an earlier memory in which he asks to have a clock switched off because the ticking sound is annoying his girlfriend. Then, other characters, witnessing the memory, say "Oh, so that's why the clocks don't tick!"

    We didn't need that last bit of dialogue. I wish the game in general had been a lot more "show, don't tell" as the characters comment on literally everything. It could have been a more interesting game if it was more like something akin to Gone Home where the player is able to interpret and explore the objects, rather than having everything over-narrated by the player characters. It made the writing feel amateurish, and lacking in confidence. Also, the timeline of the game is confusing; all the clothes and objects seem to be intended to have this timeless quality, but then the dialogue is referencing things like Animorphs and Street Fighter. This in particular doesn't make any sense; the present era of the game is meant to be 60-70 years after Animorphs books were popular, but characters still reference things like Dragon Ball Z. Is anyone really going to care about DBZ and Street Fighter that long from now? It just feels like the writer inserted things from their own pop cultural frame of reference than really putting effort into the dialogue. It should have either stuck with that timeless quality and not have any pop culture references, or be more consistent about it.

    There are other things I didn't like, but I do want to admit that I did find some aspects of this game quite poignant and sweet, and it is only 4 hours long so you can burn through it in an afternoon. That's why I'm nitpicking it so much; I wanted to like it more than I did.    … Expand
  26. MightyThor
    Aug 27, 2013
    3
    It's all about the story! The problem is it's extremely overrated. When I read reviews of people who played this game who say they were so touched tears came to their eyes I think they need to get a life outside their computer. Trying not to spoil it, the resolution in the end is stupid. It *might* have worked as a movie where real actors could interject human emotions, but ultimately it'sIt's all about the story! The problem is it's extremely overrated. When I read reviews of people who played this game who say they were so touched tears came to their eyes I think they need to get a life outside their computer. Trying not to spoil it, the resolution in the end is stupid. It *might* have worked as a movie where real actors could interject human emotions, but ultimately it's a video game about dreams and memories... the premise is basically "your mind and memories can be manipulated to make you happy, just like a video game." Stupid premise because it's not meaningful at all. In the end I was like uh what was the point of all that? The guy just got played.

    I will admit some of it was very compelling. There's a lot of breadcrumbs and allusions/foreshadowing where I couldn't put it down because I was dying to know what came next but in the end was let down. There was no plot defining twist, all pretty predictable. I did think the dialogue was clever and fine though. I did like the music but it wasn't like oscar worthy as many would make you think. It's just catchy little piano pop songs. Nothing special, but enjoyable.

    The gameplay is awful. Clicking was very not responsive. Controls are bad. I don't mind a full story driven game with little game play, but this game should've just been an E book/video game animated movie because the game play gets in the way of the story and becomes an annoyance. Gameplay is also non consistent. Some plot points require you to do a bunch of mundane junk while others breeze right through with cutscenes (my preference).

    Thankfully the game is short and cheap. I'm not upset I played it, more upset at the lavish praise it's getting because it's simply not deserving.    … Expand
  27. thetetter
    Apr 13, 2012
    5
    More of a Visual novel than a game really. The only reason I think it deserves to be called a game is the really bad puzzles between each "level". The game uses RPG maker or something of sorts, which really makes you think badly about the quality of the game. The music on the other hand is good, the makers made good choices and used a very touching tune that follows you during the gameMore of a Visual novel than a game really. The only reason I think it deserves to be called a game is the really bad puzzles between each "level". The game uses RPG maker or something of sorts, which really makes you think badly about the quality of the game. The music on the other hand is good, the makers made good choices and used a very touching tune that follows you during the game with alterations depending on the place. The one thing that makes the game redeemable is the story, if it wasn't for the story I'm sure no one would even bother playing the game, let alone buy it.
    I'm really not sure how to rate this game, as a game it lacks everything that makes a game good, but as an interactive movie it does so well I cried 3 times in one session. If I would rate it as a game I'd rate it 4.0, but as a movie I'd rate it 10.0. Since it is a game I have to give it a low score, sorry.    … Expand
  28. dlddr
    Sep 10, 2013
    3
    People seem to be very impressed with this game, especially the story.

    First of all, the story in this game is not sad/tragic/beautiful. I think the amazing storyline hype comes from few people overreacting to mediocre storyline and rest just hopping on the train tossing their thinking caps out the window. If you've read more than 5 books or are older than 15, you probably heard/read    People seem to be very impressed with this game, especially the story.

    First of all, the story in this game is not sad/tragic/beautiful. I think the amazing storyline hype comes from few people overreacting to mediocre storyline and rest just hopping on the train tossing their thinking caps out the window. If you've read more than 5 books or are older than 15, you probably heard/read sadder stories or have experienced much more tragic events than this game has to offer. Story is a very generic "love story" with repressed memory playing a major role. While the game can take you about 4 hours, you can accurately guess how the story will pan out after about 20 min of play. I can see how some people might find this story really sad and beautiful but I assume these are the same people who would break down sobbing if they ever saw a roadkill. I admit, the story is slightly better than typical fps shooters that seem to dominate the market but this isn't really saying much for a game that supposedly has an amazing storyline.

    The gameplay is a very simple 16-bit game that you might find in your gameboy but with more details and vibrant colours.. Most of gameplay is talking to significant characters and solving a series of very simple puzzles. No fights and no real puzzles to get you thinking. Searching for items and solving puzzles are mostly there to give you small breaks throughout the game. Also, the game is story-driven and is very linear. You cannot go back to place you visited earlier for check for foreshadowing or re-read some lines to clarifies some details.

    Sound has always been very important aspect of game for me and I was mildly intrigued by the soundtrack and bought it off the main website. After thoroughly listening to them all for a while, only one track is decent/memorable enough that I will occasionally look back on it. The track is called 'For River' and feels like a mix of 'Thousand Words', 'Tifa's Theme' and one more track from FF series I can't remember.

    Recommended if you've never played a game with a decent story and are interested what current gen has to offer. However, if you have experience with sad/tragic/beautiful stories and expect to find it in To the Moon, you will be very disappointed.    … Expand
  29. GRANITsalvo
    Dec 23, 2013
    2
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A game that is desperately trying to be deep and moody, is held to the ground and beaten mercilessly by shoe-horned Adam Sandler dialogue.

    Controls: Acceptable
    Music: Good
    Graphics: Decent retro
    Story: Flimsy

    Notes to the creators [If they happen to be reading]:
    - Hospice related workers that are unprofessional and disrespectful toward the client/patient are usually fired.
    - People who make it a job to help others do not treat people they help as burdens.
    - Young children do not all talk like the kids in Talladega Nights.
    - Momentos should have had descriptions of WHY they were important. A little effort here would have really helped the story.
    - The random shouting of "HADOOKEN" during dramatic moments was not acceptable.
    - The Final Fantasy style encounter with the squirrel was not acceptable.
    - Do not use names from Sci-Fi characters to name people in a somewhat modern time.
    - *SPOILER* Building a two story [+basement] stone mansion is not cheap, even though the elderly man did it by hand in two years. So, having the wife demand one built for her stuffed platypus [or she would refuse expensive treatments] is a poor plot when they argue that they could barely afford the treatment.

    FINAL THOUGHT: Stopped playing after 90 minutes. Biggest disappointment for me since Fable 3. Glad it was on sale.    … Expand
  30. fhouse
    Aug 26, 2013
    4
    I think it became a trend to say they cried at this game. I don't get why, they probably haven't played Shadow of the Colossus yet. It was ok, I had some fun with it but I wouldn't ever play it again.
    The dialogues are cheesy, especially the funfair part with those drawings, the music gets annoying after so many repetitions. And the story is the mix of Inception and a Eternal Sunshine of    I think it became a trend to say they cried at this game. I don't get why, they probably haven't played Shadow of the Colossus yet. It was ok, I had some fun with it but I wouldn't ever play it again.
    The dialogues are cheesy, especially the funfair part with those drawings, the music gets annoying after so many repetitions. And the story is the mix of Inception and a Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.    … Expand
  31. lokuspokus
    Mar 20, 2012
    0
    Look, I'm all for games who choose to work on their story-line as one of their main things, but if a game has only story-line and nothing else...it's really just a book. You can't classify this as a video game if all you are really doing is watching but clicking to go forward. I have to admit, I only played the demo since I didn't want to waste any money. And I have to say it's not a goodLook, I'm all for games who choose to work on their story-line as one of their main things, but if a game has only story-line and nothing else...it's really just a book. You can't classify this as a video game if all you are really doing is watching but clicking to go forward. I have to admit, I only played the demo since I didn't want to waste any money. And I have to say it's not a good "game". If this was a book, or some kind of movie I would give it a different score. But the so called "compelling" story-line is not interesting in my opinion, just to be plain old sad with random "funny" moments for no apparent reason. I'm not saying that game's have to have guns-blazing action packed game-play with no story-line, but come on put SOME game-play in it. Anything, I wouldn't care then. Graphics are fine, who cares if it's 16-bit or 3D, graphics don't matter much. But this is not a "masterpiece". It's boring. I really have no idea why everyone is so enthralled by a game that really should have been some new movie that gets all the good reviews.… Expand
  32. the_blueprint
    Dec 9, 2014
    0
    What the hell is this? Basically it's only story. There's practically no gameplay and what there is, is annoying. The graphics are basic at best and there are no animations to speak of. I have no idea why this isn't just a book or graphic novel or something. I continued to read this "book" because I still expected a good story. But the book keeps you in the dark for about 4 hours, doesn'tWhat the hell is this? Basically it's only story. There's practically no gameplay and what there is, is annoying. The graphics are basic at best and there are no animations to speak of. I have no idea why this isn't just a book or graphic novel or something. I continued to read this "book" because I still expected a good story. But the book keeps you in the dark for about 4 hours, doesn't make any sense at any point and the ending is a complete letdown.… Expand
  33. GuntherUltrabol
    Jul 2, 2016
    0
    Folks, this is not a game. This is a short story that could be told in a half hour were it not for the mundane, tedious tasks you are forced to perform before moving on. Imagine reading your favorite book but before turning each page you and to toss 5 pennies into a jar from accross the room? I voted 1. Because this is not a game. Not even close to a game. You can't affect theFolks, this is not a game. This is a short story that could be told in a half hour were it not for the mundane, tedious tasks you are forced to perform before moving on. Imagine reading your favorite book but before turning each page you and to toss 5 pennies into a jar from accross the room? I voted 1. Because this is not a game. Not even close to a game. You can't affect the end, you don't develope your character. You actually at one point play a very poorly rendered version of whack-a-mole so that you can move to the next chapter/paragraph/whatever. By the the time the story ended i was so irritated by the tedium, there wasn't any hope for a sad ending. It was a HAPPY ending for me because it was FINALLY over.… Expand
  34. JimCorbett
    Jan 9, 2014
    7
    To be honest, I am a bit disappointed by To The Moon. I have heard only the highest praise for its story, but when I actually got the game it seemed to be only an above average story. The game is meant to be a sad story about a dying mans last wish, but they put it way too much cheesy humor that ruins the flow of the story. The gameplay is very basic, and there really isn't much of it. YouTo be honest, I am a bit disappointed by To The Moon. I have heard only the highest praise for its story, but when I actually got the game it seemed to be only an above average story. The game is meant to be a sad story about a dying mans last wish, but they put it way too much cheesy humor that ruins the flow of the story. The gameplay is very basic, and there really isn't much of it. You go around finding items in a level and solving simple flip puzzles. The controls are a bit awkward and you often don't go to where you click. However, I do appreciate a game that focuses on a good story and To The Moon does that well. the addition of an excellent soundtrack is a great bonus as well. If you're a fan of story based games, then you'll want to give To The Moon a look, if you're looking for stellar gameplay, then look elsewhere.… Expand
  35. Thijs
    Jan 10, 2012
    10
    This is one of the greatest games I've played the past years. The story is very well written and the music is absolutely fantastic! Don't except to much gameplay, though. You should try the 1-hour demo first before you buy it.

    Anyway, this is just a great game!
  36. I_Am_Turok
    Nov 28, 2012
    5
    The graphics (of basic Zelda Link to the Past) style are fine, though moving around is not great, not clear what you can walk through and what not. The music is nice, in a background music whilst reading a book type way, similar to the quieter piano pieces from the movie Spirited Away et al (nice touch on 50% of music sales to charity). The story is fine overall, but after hour 2 youThe graphics (of basic Zelda Link to the Past) style are fine, though moving around is not great, not clear what you can walk through and what not. The music is nice, in a background music whilst reading a book type way, similar to the quieter piano pieces from the movie Spirited Away et al (nice touch on 50% of music sales to charity). The story is fine overall, but after hour 2 you begin to wonder when it will actually end. Some parts are tedious and an editor would probably have dropped them. And the lack of a back story of the 2 main scientist protagonists dialogue means we care little about them. Unfortunately the sum if its parts does not add up to anything extra for me. Each element is weak to a degree, and combined does nothing to suggest otherwise. In particular, with such poor basic graphics, we need to focus on the story (substance some may call it), but when the story weakens from halfway, the poor graphics begin to irritate and you wonder why they didn't choose a better engine (and looking at the credits, what they all worked on anyway!). Fortunately, I got for for something like $2 on sale, so at least it was a cheap four hours. It's a fine game to pick up and if you have really nothing else to do. I wouldn't go as far to say as I was annoyed to give this game 4 hours, that's harsh, but it's borderline.… Expand
  37. Turambar29
    Aug 21, 2013
    9
    Beautiful in a reto-style, To the Moon features hauntingly beautiful music and a story that is surprisingly moving. It's a novel clad in SNES-era Final Fantasy style graphics and gameplay, but without the combat. Instead, it features a personal and emotional story of a man, his wife, and his lifelong dream, along with the suffering and disappointments attendant to them. I continue to thinkBeautiful in a reto-style, To the Moon features hauntingly beautiful music and a story that is surprisingly moving. It's a novel clad in SNES-era Final Fantasy style graphics and gameplay, but without the combat. Instead, it features a personal and emotional story of a man, his wife, and his lifelong dream, along with the suffering and disappointments attendant to them. I continue to think about the game and its story, and look forward to the next one.… Expand
  38. Sperkowitz
    Mar 24, 2012
    9
    Before you purchase this title, consider this: "To The Moon" is not a game in the traditional sense. It is more of an interactive story with an excellent and perfectly matching soundtrack. If you can understand what you are getting you will be pleasantly surprised.

    You take on the role of two doctors, with clashing personalities, that are hired to make his final wish come true: to go to    Before you purchase this title, consider this: "To The Moon" is not a game in the traditional sense. It is more of an interactive story with an excellent and perfectly matching soundtrack. If you can understand what you are getting you will be pleasantly surprised.

    You take on the role of two doctors, with clashing personalities, that are hired to make his final wish come true: to go to the moon. And this is accomplished by interacting with his memories. Along the way to learn more about their client and some of those close to him.

    The story is a mix of joy, sorrow, humor, and everything else you would expect from a good story. If you enjoy a good story, you will probably have a hard time getting away from the game. However, the story is pretty short so you won't have to spend days playing. The play-through can be accomplished within an afternoon. This is the only reason I am giving it a 9 instead of a 10. The music is amazing, and compliments the story very well. I am actually considering purchasing the soundtrack soon.

    Again, if you are interested in something different, then "To The Moon" may be worth a purchase. Just make sure you play without anyone around unless you aren't worried about showing some tears around others.    … Expand
  39. ChunkySaurus
    Jan 20, 2013
    9
    I thoroughly enjoyed this one. It plays out more like an interactive story that a game. What a story it was though! It just goes to show that a small group of people with good writing and music can elicit more emotional reaction with 16-bit sprites than any of the big gaming corporations.

    The puzzles seemed like a pointless addition and some of the game play was glitchy. These    I thoroughly enjoyed this one. It plays out more like an interactive story that a game. What a story it was though! It just goes to show that a small group of people with good writing and music can elicit more emotional reaction with 16-bit sprites than any of the big gaming corporations.

    The puzzles seemed like a pointless addition and some of the game play was glitchy. These problems were trivial and shouldn't stop you from trying this one out.    … Expand
  40. OverWind
    Sep 11, 2012
    10
    I don't think any other game has moved me to tears before. The game is short (around 4 hours), but it is worth it. It will challenge your values and make you think. If you've been put off by the screenshot or the old-school-feel, don't worry, it will grow on you very fast, and the "simple" setting just makes the story that much more powerful.
    Ladies and Gentlemen of the class of whatever.    I don't think any other game has moved me to tears before. The game is short (around 4 hours), but it is worth it. It will challenge your values and make you think. If you've been put off by the screenshot or the old-school-feel, don't worry, it will grow on you very fast, and the "simple" setting just makes the story that much more powerful.
    Ladies and Gentlemen of the class of whatever. If I could offer you only one tip for the future, To the Moon would be it.    … Expand
  41. brucefr
    Nov 23, 2012
    10
    This game made me subscribe to metacritic.com.

    This game proves that Top 3D Graphics are useless to make a great game. The story is well written and translated, old school graphics are cute, and the music is just perfect. Okay this game is short, but it kept me awake from midnight to 3 AM, but most important, it's the first game that made me cry! Thanks a lot to Freebirds for having    This game made me subscribe to metacritic.com.

    This game proves that Top 3D Graphics are useless to make a great game. The story is well written and translated, old school graphics are cute, and the music is just perfect. Okay this game is short, but it kept me awake from midnight to 3 AM, but most important, it's the first game that made me cry! Thanks a lot to Freebirds for having created this game. Can't wait for the next game :)    … Expand
  42. xTobyMc
    Aug 15, 2014
    10
    An absolutely captivating game, and the first game to ever make me shed a tear (yes, I'm a man). I've always been somebody who respects a good storyline above anything else and this game just hits the nail on the head. Whilst the gameplay and graphics might not be anything special, the use of character scripts and attention to personalities is really what makes the game incredible. NotAn absolutely captivating game, and the first game to ever make me shed a tear (yes, I'm a man). I've always been somebody who respects a good storyline above anything else and this game just hits the nail on the head. Whilst the gameplay and graphics might not be anything special, the use of character scripts and attention to personalities is really what makes the game incredible. Not only that, but the soundtrack is one of the best I've experienced in a game (considering this is an Indie game I was blown away). There are many twists and turns in the story, and the developers have clearly written it very well. It's both entertaining and very emotional, and emotion is something few games can provoke nowadays in my opinion. You won't be experiencing revolutionary gameplay with this game, but you sure as hell are in for an emotional roller coaster. This game deserves far more fame.… Expand
  43. SupaChigga
    Nov 19, 2013
    7
    Single Player/Multi Player (1/2)

    (If the single player is better than the multiplayer, review this section as if it had no multplayer) (If the multiplayer is better than the multiplayer, review this section as if it had no single player) Gameplay (0/2) Visuals/Story (2/2) (If the visuals are better than the story, review this section as if it had no story) (If the story is    Single Player/Multi Player (1/2)

    (If the single player is better than the multiplayer, review this section as if it had no multplayer) (If the multiplayer is better than the multiplayer, review this section as if it had no single player)

    Gameplay (0/2)

    Visuals/Story (2/2)

    (If the visuals are better than the story, review this section as if it had no story) (If the story is better than the visuals, review this section as if the visuals didn’t matter)

    Accessibility/Longevity (2/2)

    (Review this section only on Accessibility if the game has no longevity) (Review this section only on longevity if the game isn’t accessible)

    Pricing (2/2)

    Wildcard (0)

    This is a guideline for how to properly review games. Many reviewers like to get a “feel” for a game, and arbitrarily give a game a score that they believe it deserves. This results in wildly different scores between different reviewers, and vastly different scores between similar games. This guideline addresses these problems and scores games fairly and consistently. This guideline also gives scores that are usually similar to the metacritic score.

    The review score is based out of 10 points. There are no “half” or 0.5 increments. It is impossible to have a score above 10 or below 0. The review score will change as the game gets new dlc, drops in price, or if more secrets are found through the game increasing its appeal.

    The scoring is split into 6 sections. The first five sections can add a possible 2 points to the final score. The first 5 sections are Single Player/Multi Player, Gameplay, Visuals/Story, Accessibility/Longevity, and Pricing.

    Notice that 3 of these sections have two parts. These particular sections will be scored based on the stronger part of the game of the two. For example, if a game has a lousy single player campaign, but an excellent multiplayer component, that section will be based solely on the multiplayer as if the single player did not exist. This allows games to be based on their own merits, as many unnecessary features are shoehorned into video games by publishers to reach a “feature quota”. Games that excel in both areas of a section don’t receive should be noted in the written review, but cannot increase the score past 2 in that section. However, it can be taken into account in the final section

    The final section can add 1, add 0, or subtract 1 to the final score. This final section is the “wildcard” section. This section is for how the reviewer “feels” about the game, but limits this only to this section, rather than the entire 10 point review. This section can include any positive or negative point that was not covered in the previous 5 sections.    … Expand
  44. Ceeej510
    Jan 8, 2014
    10
    10 tacky chunders out of 10. carnage game. no strip clubs tho so 0/10 cant go to fattys either. tbh this game is just carnage, jim approves too. IT LOOKS LIKE DERRIK MADE THIS GAME BUT HE DIDNT SO ITS GOOD FATTYS MAN SO EXCITED. beatbox alex and soup bowl head colin
  45. carlosgtardon
    Jun 10, 2014
    7
    Interesante narrativa e historia, pero no es un videojuego, no hay estructura de jugabilidad pero la idea es muy interesante. Si te lo tomas como una historia interactiva disfrutas mucho de este programa.
  46. Xzenor
    Mar 4, 2020
    9
    I hate pixel-art games.. but holy crap, the story of this game is so incredibly awesome.. It's gonna hit you right in the feels.

    It's not a really long game, and yes it looks like crap but I've played it twice already.. Once as a less legal download and I decided that it was totally worth buying, then played it again..It's the story, the music the atmosphere...It's just worth playing    I hate pixel-art games.. but holy crap, the story of this game is so incredibly awesome.. It's gonna hit you right in the feels.

    It's not a really long game, and yes it looks like crap but I've played it twice already..
    Once as a less legal download and I decided that it was totally worth buying, then played it again..It's the story, the music the atmosphere...It's just worth playing if you're into a good story.

    The DLC is not much though so just skip that..    … Expand
  47. CenkAlp
    Jan 3, 2018
    9
    Hikaye = 10
    Oynanış = 7
    Grafikler = 4
    Sesler = 5
    Keyif = 10
    Atmosfer = 10
    Süre = 10
  48. kezzyhko
    Aug 5, 2020
    9
    ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍
  49. lagendofdoom
    Feb 15, 2020
    10
    To The Moon is an RPG maker games and one of the best I must say,
    The characters and the story is what makes this game so special.
    It has everything from good humor, to drama and even tragic events as well as happy ones, I'm gonna be honest I did shed a few tears thanks to this amazing game. Story : you play as both Watts and Rosalene and their job is to fulfill the wishes of their    To The Moon is an RPG maker games and one of the best I must say,
    The characters and the story is what makes this game so special.
    It has everything from good humor, to drama and even tragic events as well as happy ones,
    I'm gonna be honest I did shed a few tears thanks to this amazing game.

    Story : you play as both Watts and Rosalene and their job is to fulfill the wishes of their patients via a machine
    that can go through their memory and with that they change a few things so that the patient can fulfill his/her wish inside their dream. The main problem that their patient Johnny wants to go to the moon but doesn't know why and its their job to find a way to make his wish come true and for that they need to know why he wants to go there.

    Characters : Well done, I got attached to all the main characters ( River, Johnny, Watts and Rosalene ) all of them were great with unique personality, Hand down to Watts and Rosalene as their relationship is very dynamic and fun to see while River and Johnny relationship is simply beautiful.

    Bugs : I had only once encountered a bug that I had to restart the game, so I have to suggest to save every time you finish something.

    Soundtrack : Wow, the soundtrack is on point definitely gonna listen to some of the scores more than once, hopefully they will not make me cry again while listening to them.

    Gameplay : is the weakest point here, a few puzzles here and there and just point and click as well as moving from point A to B that's all. To be honest that all it needs to be.

    Conclusion : A must buy and a game that you must play at least once, shows how a game could be great even almost without any gameplay, its story and characters is what make this game so amazing.
    I want to mention that in my personal opinion this game could also become an amazing movie and I hope it will get adapted one day to be as such.    … Expand
  50. gmboy902
    Jul 18, 2013
    8
    The main characters occasionally clash with the story they are observing and sometimes plot elements get contrived to keep the story moving, but if you're looking for a moving story and don't care too much about the graphics or utter lack of gameplay, then look no further.

    I usually criticize games for adopting retro graphics. Touted too often as an artistic choice, in most games the    The main characters occasionally clash with the story they are observing and sometimes plot elements get contrived to keep the story moving, but if you're looking for a moving story and don't care too much about the graphics or utter lack of gameplay, then look no further.

    I usually criticize games for adopting retro graphics. Touted too often as an artistic choice, in most games the presence of retro graphics is most likely the result of the developer's laziness. In some, such as Minecraft, it compliments the nature of the game quite nicely and perhaps nicer than more modern graphics would. I can thankfully add this game to the latter list, as the presence of 3D graphics or voice-acting (all dialog is in text form) would actually take away from the characters and story. It is meant to be simple but elegant, and the graphics do suit it in this case.

    Bearing in mind that this game is not trying to be a game so much as an interactive story, I won't really critique the gameplay elements so much. They mostly consist of searching for items with relevance to the story itself, and so fall under the story category. There are a few very simple puzzles that seem a bit out of place.

    Since this game takes the role of an interactive story, most criticisms of it must be based on that aspect. Fortunately, To the Moon really does pull its weight in that category. The setup is simple a man is on his deathbed two years after his wife passed, and his last wish was to go to the moon for some uncertain reason. The two main characters, who act as observers most of the time, are doctors with the ability to enter the man's unconscious mind and alter his memories such that he believes he actually did. In order to do so, they must trace their way back through his memories until his childhood to find out why he wants to go to the moon. The emotional story centers itself primarily around the man's relationship with his wife, and builds to a climax that is both startling and heartbreaking.

    The two main characters sometimes clash with the plot in a non-productive way, however. One of them is meant to provide comic relief and admittedly, there were some pretty fantastic moments in that field but on occasion the comedy will come in contrast to the serious tone of the story which you are observing at the moment. Also, many of the elements of the story feel made up, out of place, and contrived simply to provide a reason for the story to continue in the manner the developer wanted. This is a sign of poorly thought out writing.

    But overall, To the Moon will provide you with about 3 hours of the most powerful writing I have ever seen in this medium.    … Expand
  51. ddrussianinja
    Jan 11, 2014
    8
    It's common to see a game with really fun, solid gameplay to have a really weak, pointless story, but it's far less common to see the opposite. That's exactly what we have in "To The Moon". We have an expertly-crafted narrative with great art, atmosphere, and music, but the gameplay is shoehorned-in, tedious, and doesn't serve the narrative in any significant way. This game would have beenIt's common to see a game with really fun, solid gameplay to have a really weak, pointless story, but it's far less common to see the opposite. That's exactly what we have in "To The Moon". We have an expertly-crafted narrative with great art, atmosphere, and music, but the gameplay is shoehorned-in, tedious, and doesn't serve the narrative in any significant way. This game would have been far better without the gameplay constantly slowing down the pacing. Still, the story is so good that I can't in good conscience give this a score any lower than an 8. The fact that I can care so much about this story in spite of gameplay that literally had me groaning for hours is a testament to just how strong a story it is. Perhaps it would have been a better book or movie, but even if this isn't the ideal medium for it, it's still a strong enough story to deserve praise and make it worth playing.… Expand
  52. drlowdon
    May 12, 2014
    6
    Dr. Wyatt and Dr. Rosaleane are scientists that can recreate memories in order to enable dying people a chance to live out their final request through their dreams. As the game starts the pair arrives at the house of a dying, elderly man whose last wish is to visit the moon. In order to grant this wish they must travel back through his memories to discover the roots of his desire.Dr. Wyatt and Dr. Rosaleane are scientists that can recreate memories in order to enable dying people a chance to live out their final request through their dreams. As the game starts the pair arrives at the house of a dying, elderly man whose last wish is to visit the moon. In order to grant this wish they must travel back through his memories to discover the roots of his desire.

    Whether or not you enjoy To the Moon will depend entirely on whether you become invested in the story of a dying man and his last wish of going to the moon. There is virtually no 'gameplay' to speak off and, aside from a few simple puzzles that bookend each memory, players will spend most of their time just clicking on objects in the game world in order to progress whilst listening (well reading) the conversations of the NPCs. There aren't even any decisions to be made like there are in games such as The Walking Dead.

    Fortunately however the story, while in some ways clichéd, is heartfelt and a real step above what you'll find in most video games. At around four hours long it is also just the right length to ensure it doesn't out stay its welcome.

    To the Moon won't be for everyone, I can certainly understand some of the negative reviews, but those after a more sedate and thoughtful experience should give it a try.    … Expand
  53. Matseb2611
    Oct 3, 2015
    9
    I'm a bit late to this game, but eventually decided to play it after countless recommendations, and I have to say, the game surprised me. My expectations weren't overly high, since many other popular RPG maker games that are deemed to be classics ended up disappointing me. But not this game. You get to journey through a man's life by visiting his memories and seeing which people and eventsI'm a bit late to this game, but eventually decided to play it after countless recommendations, and I have to say, the game surprised me. My expectations weren't overly high, since many other popular RPG maker games that are deemed to be classics ended up disappointing me. But not this game. You get to journey through a man's life by visiting his memories and seeing which people and events have had an impact on him. The game starts off slowly, but the pace picks up after the first half hour and it just kept me wanting to know more.

    Some parts did feel a bit unfocused or dragged too much, and also many of the male scientist's remarks were rather out of place in a game like this and broke immersion. I also wasn't a fan of a strange corridor mini-game with booby traps later on (yes, I am not joking). I personally thought that scene didn't need to exist at all because it didn't fit with the serious nature of the game's story. But other than that, I found the story to be emotional and very touching. The puzzles were all very simple and fun. You never get stuck too long trying to solve any of them.

    I also thought the music was fantastic. It really helped to enhance the emotions in each scene.

    Overall, I would recommend this game if you're after an emotional story that will pull on your heartstrings. It might not be for everyone, but it's certainly worth checking out. If you're after a more gameplay-heavy game though, you probably wouldn't like it.    … Expand
  54. Xanifur
    Jan 8, 2014
    9
    Wow, this is a stunningly beatuiful game. A definite tear jerker. It will have you laughing and crying. This is what storytelling is all about. A Definite must play if you like story based games. I played it in one sitting, and it was an amazing experience. Don't let the style hold you back, it is all about storytelling, and this game does it perfectly. The writing for the children is aWow, this is a stunningly beatuiful game. A definite tear jerker. It will have you laughing and crying. This is what storytelling is all about. A Definite must play if you like story based games. I played it in one sitting, and it was an amazing experience. Don't let the style hold you back, it is all about storytelling, and this game does it perfectly. The writing for the children is a bit off, but is still great. 9/10
    Definite must play.    … Expand
  55. BasilZero
    Jun 2, 2014
    8
    Game: To The Moon
    Genre: RPG-Adventure
    Developer: Freebird Games System: Steam (PC) Total Score: 75/100 Value Score: 7.5/10 • Story: 10/10 • Characters: 8/10 • GamePlay: 7/10 • Graphics: 7/10 • Sound: 7/10 • Music: 10/10 • Length: 3/10 • Replay Value: 5/10 • Player Value: 8/10 Pros +Great emotional and original storyline +Modern style cliches, jokes, etc which is rare    Game: To The Moon
    Genre: RPG-Adventure
    Developer: Freebird Games
    System: Steam (PC)
    Total Score: 75/100
    Value Score: 7.5/10

    • Story: 10/10
    • Characters: 8/10
    • GamePlay: 7/10
    • Graphics: 7/10
    • Sound: 7/10
    • Music: 10/10
    • Length: 3/10
    • Replay Value: 5/10
    • Player Value: 8/10

    Pros
    +Great emotional and original storyline
    +Modern style cliches, jokes, etc which is rare in games these days
    +Fantastic soundtrack which fits perfectly with each and every aspect of the game

    Cons
    -Too short
    -Feels like a fetch quest of a game
    -Controls feel sluggish
    -Should of been an anime like Clannad rather than a game (lol)    … Expand
  56. p360assassin
    Feb 7, 2013
    8
    Firstly, I want to begin my review by saying that people should stop calling this an adventure game. It is more of a visual novel, which there is nothing wrong with that, you just must expect little gameplay with extremely large amounts of text speech bubbles. The game's story I won't say, since that can be read in tons of other places and much better then I could. All I will say is it isFirstly, I want to begin my review by saying that people should stop calling this an adventure game. It is more of a visual novel, which there is nothing wrong with that, you just must expect little gameplay with extremely large amounts of text speech bubbles. The game's story I won't say, since that can be read in tons of other places and much better then I could. All I will say is it is extremely emotional, and feels quite unique. While some complain about the jokes, they are never told during scenes which would be greatly detrimental to the scene, and the game reduces the amount Neil says as the seriousness of the situation pushs him more and more from his usual sarcastic and casual manner, although it never completely changes him from the character you love.
    The 16 bit art style is done well, and the developer showed some real creativity. The music quality is incredibly good, easily one of the best soundtracks ever made for a game. (The guy who said it sounded like what he would play when he was 12 must of been a fantastic pianist) And the music always feels perfect for the scene when it is used.
    The game does have a couple of puzzles which feel out of place and simply designed to make it feel less like a visual novel and more of a game. I would of preferred they not be in the game, but at least they are short and very easy.
    The game has a distinct lack of polish, and there is such a large amount of bugs and lack of responsiveness with the controls (only apparent in the scenes that require the keyboard, which are far and few between, and always very short) except strangely when using a 360 gamepad, which the game does not even remember to claim to support (despite full compatibility). Also, the game has the most screen tearing I have ever seen with no vsync option. This may be due to an oversight or it may be due to the RPG maker engine that I have 'heard' the game uses (although I have never used it, so I wouldn't know) However, these bugs will never prevent you from beating the game with little problems.

    And finally, something I truly found awesome was how almost everything you find in the first part of the game as you explore the house and lighthouse (which is entirely optional) is explained throughout the story and usually has major significance.
    What will likely tun lots of people off is the length. The game is only four hours long, and due to its story based nature and lack of branching unlike many visual novels do; it has very little replay value. Of course, it is still a fantastic experience and only costs ten dollars anyway.

    Overall, a great experience with fantastic story, slightly hurt by puzzles and bugs that don't take away too much on the experience, and I highly recommend the game.    … Expand
  57. potatoes351
    Mar 1, 2014
    9
    To The Moon is something of a masterpeice; its not quite perfect but it is without a doubt one of the best indie games ever made.
    The story follows Dr. Watts and Dr. Rosalene as they go about their daily job, fulfilling the dying's last wishes by altering their memories. However when they meet Johnny Wyles, whose wish is to go to the moon, their job is made more difficult die to him not    To The Moon is something of a masterpeice; its not quite perfect but it is without a doubt one of the best indie games ever made.
    The story follows Dr. Watts and Dr. Rosalene as they go about their daily job, fulfilling the dying's last wishes by altering their memories. However when they meet Johnny Wyles, whose wish is to go to the moon, their job is made more difficult die to him not knowing why he wants to go there.
    So the duo jump into Wyles' memories to search for the reason why he wants to go to the moon and presenting a deeply emotional & incredibly well told love story.
    To The Moon delves into some very dark themes and isn't afraid to make you feel a little uncomfortable at times, however the game is littered with uplifting humour & happy moments that will make even the most cold hearted smile.
    It is a point & click game of sorts, collecting items to use on others and the such, but it is a very story driven experience and puzzles are never too complex.
    In all To The Moon takes around 4 hours to complete with little replay value beyond experiencing the excellent story again.
    The game's biggest problems are its comedic timing, which is very jarring when it makes jokes in some very sad moments of the game and that you can occasionally have a little lack of direction as there are no indicators of what to do and where to go, though these times are few and far between due to it being a very linear experience.
    To the Moon is a game that everyone, young and old should experience.    … Expand
  58. slappycider
    Jan 17, 2015
    9
    Tears. That is one word that can describe this outstanding gem. Tears. You will cry playing this game. Thing are extremely interesting and hysterical during Act 1, emotions are intense during Act 2... and Act 3... Act 3 is speechlessly emotional.

    This game contains some of the most charming visuals, witty writing, and emotional storytelling ever told in a video game. So... damn...    Tears. That is one word that can describe this outstanding gem. Tears. You will cry playing this game. Thing are extremely interesting and hysterical during Act 1, emotions are intense during Act 2... and Act 3... Act 3 is speechlessly emotional.

    This game contains some of the most charming visuals, witty writing, and emotional storytelling ever told in a video game. So... damn... good...

    I'm busy with other things right now so I can't really write a super long review, but I could go on for DAYS about how I feel about this game... phew, it's a rollercoaster ride.    … Expand
  59. xDaudex
    Jul 23, 2015
    10
    Pros:
    Amazing story
    Amazing music
    Made me cry

    Cons:
    Using the mouse to move around is kind of weird at first but other than that I can't think of anything. An example of a game that is pretty much perfect.
  60. Sandorien
    Sep 24, 2012
    10
    Awesome point and click story. While its less game and more story, I'd still consider it a game, as I played atari games as a kid. While I wish it had wasd movement for most of the game it still works. In the end if you like heartfelt stories you will love this game.
  61. Greg_Heavy
    Jul 23, 2012
    9
    One of the best stories I have ever experienced. Beautiful soundtrack, great characters. However, keep in mind the "system requirements" are pretty high (it requires a good heart).
  62. Aeryx
    Dec 29, 2014
    10
    I've never had a game this short and simple bring feeling to my life about regrets the way this masterpiece did. I can't perfectly describe why and how but it did. And in the end, that's what really matters. If you like games that make you think about life and the regrets which make it colorful, you will love this one hands down.
  63. StaticSpine
    Jan 19, 2013
    9
    In this game the outstanding storyline covers lack of gameplay/interactivity or you name what. The breathtaking story is linear and leads you through till the end. It's very catchy and doesn't let you go till the very end. The game reminded me of "Dear Esther", they have a lot in common. The only controversial thing is that the main mood is dramatic but pretty often it is spoiled byIn this game the outstanding storyline covers lack of gameplay/interactivity or you name what. The breathtaking story is linear and leads you through till the end. It's very catchy and doesn't let you go till the very end. The game reminded me of "Dear Esther", they have a lot in common. The only controversial thing is that the main mood is dramatic but pretty often it is spoiled by humorous main characters dialogues, so with more serious approach the game could be even better to my thought.… Expand
  64. TheMushroomMan
    Sep 2, 2012
    9
    To be honest, To The Moon is not really a "game", the way you would imagine it being. Really, it's more of an interactive movie. But for 12 dollars, it's a really good one. This game's story and music are amazing. The music is really suiting to the mood, sometimes happy, sometimes sad, sometimes both. Where most movies are 2 hours long and 20 dollars, this one is roughly 4.5 hours atTo be honest, To The Moon is not really a "game", the way you would imagine it being. Really, it's more of an interactive movie. But for 12 dollars, it's a really good one. This game's story and music are amazing. The music is really suiting to the mood, sometimes happy, sometimes sad, sometimes both. Where most movies are 2 hours long and 20 dollars, this one is roughly 4.5 hours at almost half the price (it's $9.99 on GoG.com, $12 from the developer's website). If you're expecting gameplay from this, don't. The gameplay is as follows: Walk around, find mementos (you'll figure out what this is when you play the game), solve a puzzle, repeat. But the cutscenes more than make up for this, because that's where all the story is. There is no voice acting, but in my opinion there shouldn't be. There isn't any driver-busting graphics, but there doesn't need to be. In my opinion, the story is better than most movies I've seen recently, because that's what the game is about. Some people may complain about its lack of length, but I'm not, because if it was any longer, it would just feel dragged out and completely lose its effect. Some issues I have with it, though, are that some jokes it makes can completely ruin the mood, but for me, those moments were few and far between.

    Before this game, the only game or movie that made me cry was Marley and Me. This game actually made me tear up in some parts, which I think is an amazing feat. Don't expect to come away from this dry-eyed, because if you do, I'm afraid there may be something wrong with you. Also, you will need to have a reading ability to play this game, because all the speech is through text.

    In my opinion, this game broke the ground, in the same way that Shadow of the Colossus did. We need more games like this, more games that aren't just "shoot A, move to B," etc. I eagerly look forward to more content from Freebird Games, and while I think this type of game could be really hit or miss, I think for the most part, this is indefinitely a hit.    … Expand
  65. mani60cent
    Sep 3, 2012
    10
    Brilliant heart tugging game, story is so emotional and deep and has a lot of meaning. Characters grew on me. I wish people made their games more meaningful like this. Music was brilliant too. Easy 10/10 hope there is a chapter 2.
  66. Smoates
    Sep 6, 2012
    10
    Maybe not for those looking for a "gaming" experience, but if your looking for a game with a brilliant, original, from-the-heart-story that is a real rarity in this day in age, you can't miss out on this. A game with a beautiful mood-setting soundtrack and a story that will restore your faith in humanity's storytelling abilities. It will touch your heart, possibly even make you cry andMaybe not for those looking for a "gaming" experience, but if your looking for a game with a brilliant, original, from-the-heart-story that is a real rarity in this day in age, you can't miss out on this. A game with a beautiful mood-setting soundtrack and a story that will restore your faith in humanity's storytelling abilities. It will touch your heart, possibly even make you cry and make you think twice about the value of the time you have to live in this world.

    TL;DR A beautiful story not worth missing    … Expand
  67. rezeile008
    Sep 8, 2012
    10
    This game leaves a lasting memory that I know I will never forget. oh how I miss the times when games actually affected your being as a child giving you a one of a kind experience and actually touching your heart. We need more games like this!
  68. SpamIrwin
    Sep 16, 2012
    10
    This game has a amazing story, It's up there with FF VII in terms of how epic the story is.
    It's short, 4hrs, and $10. The same as a movie ticket. Yet this game moved me more any ANY movie. This game reminds me why I play games.
  69. Ryuhanzrio
    Sep 17, 2012
    9
    I went into this game being my first point and click game not knowing what to expect. But this game did for me what no other FPS or other RPG could do, and that was give me a story that made me cry, laugh, think about my life, and leave it feeling like somehow I gained something from beating the game, If you like story heavy games then this is for you, if you want action, guns and fightingI went into this game being my first point and click game not knowing what to expect. But this game did for me what no other FPS or other RPG could do, and that was give me a story that made me cry, laugh, think about my life, and leave it feeling like somehow I gained something from beating the game, If you like story heavy games then this is for you, if you want action, guns and fighting then you will find no such thing here. But even if you don't like story heavy games give it a try anyway, I know I did and I didn't regret it.… Expand
  70. fryeguy67
    Sep 30, 2012
    10
    16-bit era graphics + story telling better than any movie I've seen recently= An emotional 3 hour ride to the very end. I never played a game that made me rethink my life and thinking that I'm the driver living it. A rare treat indeed. I don't think I've ever played a game that made me tear up in the end. This should be shared with the world and may definitely open a persons thoughts and16-bit era graphics + story telling better than any movie I've seen recently= An emotional 3 hour ride to the very end. I never played a game that made me rethink my life and thinking that I'm the driver living it. A rare treat indeed. I don't think I've ever played a game that made me tear up in the end. This should be shared with the world and may definitely open a persons thoughts and eyes in where they should go with their life.

    I'm a fan of Kan Gao and Freebird games and I'm excited for their next outing.    … Expand
  71. Wilsp
    Jul 10, 2014
    10
    If you go into this game expecting great gameplay and game mechanics, you will likely not enjoy this game. This game will be driven by the amazing story and, for me personally, the amazing music. While this was a quick game, under fifteen hours long, it was an incredible experience that will stay for a long time. The ending was emotional, the way the story was told was well thought out,If you go into this game expecting great gameplay and game mechanics, you will likely not enjoy this game. This game will be driven by the amazing story and, for me personally, the amazing music. While this was a quick game, under fifteen hours long, it was an incredible experience that will stay for a long time. The ending was emotional, the way the story was told was well thought out, and, overall, it was a well-made game.… Expand
  72. SchoolMate
    Nov 23, 2012
    10
    Best indie games ever i played. To the Moon has greatest Original Sound Track, Retro 16bits graphics and beautiful story lines. You must feel sad if you play this game.
  73. Nerung
    Nov 22, 2012
    10
    One of my favourite games of all time, To the Moon features SNES-style graphics, a load of humour and a dramatic setting. The story has enough twists to keep it interesting, especially since it is spiced with awesome dialogues and a good interchange between fun and sad moments. It is a very round experience in every aspect. This is a definite must-have if you like the genre even a littleOne of my favourite games of all time, To the Moon features SNES-style graphics, a load of humour and a dramatic setting. The story has enough twists to keep it interesting, especially since it is spiced with awesome dialogues and a good interchange between fun and sad moments. It is a very round experience in every aspect. This is a definite must-have if you like the genre even a little bit and the dated graphics do not hinder your gaming experience. It is somewhat cheesy but that is also its strength.… Expand
  74. Tracer412
    Nov 23, 2012
    10
    Before buying this or reading the few negative reviews, you must know this game is more of an interactive story than a game. It has minor puzzle and classic rpg searching elements, but at the heart of the game, you are playing through a main streamed story. The graphics are a great reminder of classic rpgs, but can also seem kind of out dated or laggy at times, however if you can get pastBefore buying this or reading the few negative reviews, you must know this game is more of an interactive story than a game. It has minor puzzle and classic rpg searching elements, but at the heart of the game, you are playing through a main streamed story. The graphics are a great reminder of classic rpgs, but can also seem kind of out dated or laggy at times, however if you can get past the graphical aspects and understand this is not a game you buy for "gameplay, you will find an truly touching and amazing story. The game itself is short and can be completed within four hours, and it can be kind of slow at times, but Freebird Games has managed to create a masterful story, that you will not forget anytime soon. To the Moon can definately be heartbreaking at times, and is not always a happy story, but this is aligned with humor and randomness, which keep it semi upbeat at other times. If you take the time to get into the story, you will find a emotional connection with the characters, and force you to keep playing to find resolution. This game will leave you thinking about your own values and life, and is definitely worth the time. Freebird Games has created a Masterpiece of storytelling, which everyone should experience at least once.… Expand
  75. Niko-chan
    Nov 25, 2012
    9
    The story is So good; it just sucks you in and you don't want to stop playing. However, I only gave it a 9 because it was so short. I beat it in 3 hours, but it's an awesome game with a killer story. I highly recommend it.
  76. Kydos
    May 19, 2014
    10
    I'm so pleased to see this game has such a good reception because on the face of it, it is certainly not a game for everyone. That being said, gameplay aside, this game is for everyone. It took about 20 mins for me to get drawn in but once I reached that point I couldn't stop until I'd finished the whole thing through, it is absolutely enthralling.

    The gameplay is very simple but where    I'm so pleased to see this game has such a good reception because on the face of it, it is certainly not a game for everyone. That being said, gameplay aside, this game is for everyone. It took about 20 mins for me to get drawn in but once I reached that point I couldn't stop until I'd finished the whole thing through, it is absolutely enthralling.

    The gameplay is very simple but where it excels -REALLY excels- is in it's storytelling. The story itself is fairly cliché and there are moments in the game itself where it breaks the fourth wall to accuse itself of being cliché so it is not taking itself too seriously. The music though, incredible. The music in this game takes control of you, it dictates every emotion you experience while playing to the extent that the slow fading out of the melodious piano playing to be replaced with silence broken only one deep and heavy note repeated systematically sends chills down your spine and you dread what might be coming next.

    Interspersed throughout the story even in the middle of some high tension scenes are moments of genuine humour. This game's sense of humour is really excellent and it's the perfect counter-weight to the sombre backdrop that is the overall story taking place.

    There's not much else to say other than that you shouldn't expect a traditional game if you buy this but you should expect and you will get a fantastic, moving and charming creation. Couldn't recommend picking this up any more even if you only use it to while away a single evening. It will stick with you long after that.    … Expand
  77. speshilkay
    Dec 30, 2012
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Just played To the Moon, and wanted to do a kind of small review thingy because some things have been bugging me. I felt like it was a well written and thought out game, but not executed to the best it could have been. I'll try my best to try and not go "5th grade report essay" on this. If you haven't played the game; buy it, play it, and then read it because there are spoilers that would ruin the game. First the good. One of the best things in the game were the two big music scores, "For River" and "Everything's Alright." They're both still stuck in my head, and it added a lot for the game. "Everything's Alright" alone made chills run down my spine and tears nearly flow. The dynamic music for the rest of the game also gave it more emotion during the story. Another thing was the incredible story. Definitely in the top 5 stories for games i have ever played in terms of how emotionally compelling it was. It was refreshing to play a game that was focused so much on story after playing so many games in the past few years that go for cheap thrills and neglect the story. The story also didn't treat the player/reader as stupid. I think they never mentioned that River had asperger syndrome, but if you knew what it is they made it clear as day. They never directly said many things, but left clues for the player to put together, which is a great way to tell a story. The last big thing for me were the characters in the story. Their actions and emotions felt realistic, not "you stole my wife, I'm going to kill 5,000 guys even though i am unsure of her death" kind of thing. It's because they were so realistic that they were easy to relate with. On the other side of that coin, though, there was one character that is %75 responsible for the reason that this game isn't perfect. I hope i'm not the only one who thinks Dr. Watts should go eat a bag of dicks. I know he was put there as a sort of comic relief, but his small, unfunny (to, me anyway) jokes didn't lighten me up, it just ruined the fantastic mood the rest of the game worked so hard to set. Another thing that ruined the mood was that the story going for a somber, more mature tone while the dialogue of the 2 employees went for a more childish, light tone (for the most part.) The conflict of interest in the way the story was told bothered and confused me as to how i should feel during some parts of the game. Three tiny "plot holes" that i'm sure was just a result of me not listening closely enough was why you had to shoot the barrier of the memento off, why John wanted to use River for his gain, and why the name Anya was so important that they used it to name the lighthouse (i'm probably wrong, but i vaguely remember them saying that the name Anya "made sense.") But I really didn't mind these too much since the rest of the story was flawless. There's also a little bit of unengaging gameplay around the 2nd act, but it's there to build the story, so i can forgive it. Despite all the cons the game has, You would have to try really hard to not like this game. although there were things to keep me from sobbing at the end (which, believe me, i really wanted to do,) the ending was still inches from getting a tear from me. Even before the ending, when they were sitting on the log and saying they wanted to meet on "the rabbits tummy" if they ever got lost made me realize his intentions and made me a little emotional. It's really a fantastic game and should be played if you have the chance.

    in short
    "3/10, gun mechanics not well implemented" -IGN    … Expand
  78. mckw
    Feb 3, 2014
    8
    Such a beautiful and well written story that really hits the spot, despite occasional parts where rather bad dialogue flatten the mood, the beauty is not tarnished. Not much of a game, but the story has every bit of redeeming value. Enjoyed the art style and soundtrack as well to complement the emotions and scenes portrayed.
  79. Kazduin
    Mar 7, 2014
    9
    Simply put, this game is the most beautiful indie game experience I've ever had. Words cannot describe the powerful feelings this game evoked within me. The story is from the perspective of two doctors. These doctors possess a device that allow them to traverse the very memories of a person. They can manipulate those memories to make the patients dying wish come true. It is a five hourSimply put, this game is the most beautiful indie game experience I've ever had. Words cannot describe the powerful feelings this game evoked within me. The story is from the perspective of two doctors. These doctors possess a device that allow them to traverse the very memories of a person. They can manipulate those memories to make the patients dying wish come true. It is a five hour journey, but one many should take. It allows you insight on a condition certain people have to live with throughout their lives, as well as the bonds between two souls and how tragedy and circumstance cannot make them falter. I cried so hard. I was crying because of the beauty of the message and the happiness of the finale, but also the emanating sadness of the whole story. When you go to the moon you will feel joy, sorrow, and compassion.… Expand
  80. btxddd
    Jun 5, 2014
    10
    Absolutely amazing. Trust me, if you are not just a crazy guy enjoy shooting people , you'll love this game for sure. It's more of a art work than a game actually.
  81. frankielee
    May 7, 2015
    9
    one of the best love stories i've read, one of the best love stories i've played and one of the best love stories i've watched. definitely worth buying.
  82. Menaxene
    Mar 8, 2013
    8
    To the Moon is a awesome story but I could be a good game if the gameplay wasn't so "basic". Like I said, the story is realy well writen, like a short novel or a manga. Very smoothy. It's rare in a game, but not just in video game. Personaly, I hope there is a sequel (as it seems to be at the end of the game) but with more gameplay. Music is also greeat.
  83. Cazychel
    Mar 29, 2013
    9
    This game is absolutely amazing. The retro style does fit very well and though it is not much of a 'game' in the traditional sense, it is a wonderful story and an adventure of fabulous imagination. This is definitely a piece of art.

    My only complaint is with the ending and its ultimate message, but I won't spoil anything. Everyone has to decide for their own and everyone who loves    This game is absolutely amazing. The retro style does fit very well and though it is not much of a 'game' in the traditional sense, it is a wonderful story and an adventure of fabulous imagination. This is definitely a piece of art.

    My only complaint is with the ending and its ultimate message, but I won't spoil anything. Everyone has to decide for their own and everyone who loves intelligent storytelling should play this game. Now.

    - Cazy    … Expand
  84. mysterioussir
    Jan 28, 2014
    9
    This isn't so much a game as it is an interactive book or movie. But boy is it an experience. I'm one of those people who never cries due to a movie or anything, but To The Moon brought me very, very close. If there's one cheap PC game you get, it should hands-down be this.
  85. Troianman
    Jan 22, 2014
    9
    When this game initially released I completely missed it, gamer radar did not even pick it up. I randomly purchased it from gog.com for some reason when it was on some sale at some point in the late half of 2013 and did not pay much attention to it until I saw it pop back up again in one of the recent Humble Bundles. Since I finally got around to playing and finishing it I figured I wouldWhen this game initially released I completely missed it, gamer radar did not even pick it up. I randomly purchased it from gog.com for some reason when it was on some sale at some point in the late half of 2013 and did not pay much attention to it until I saw it pop back up again in one of the recent Humble Bundles. Since I finally got around to playing and finishing it I figured I would post some thoughts here.

    For a game created with RPG Maker (I want to say XP) it stands out as something worth paying for. Perhaps the nostalgia factor plays a role here what with my personal love of 16-bit RPGs and all but that is just a cosmetic item. This could have been a point and click adventure style game, a quick time event based game, or even a full 3D game utilizing Unity or Unreal or some other popular 3D engine but I give a thumbs up to FreeBird because they knew where they stood with budget and likely other items and did not attempt to bite off more than they could chew in terms of execution. Instead we have a game that emphasizes story and music and one which executes both very well.

    Gameplay:
    Repetitive is the best word I can use to describe it. Mostly point and click on objects of interest or that cause the cursor to change and you do some moving around. There are a few fun ones thrown in that I do not wish to spoil but they do not last long and the repetitive portion returns. But it is not a game with the promise of a thrilling or inventive combat system so it should not be judged for lacking such, nor is it meant to be a game that pushes the boundaries of what a mouse and keyboard can do so judging it based on that is also a bad decision. While repetitive, the gameplay itself is solid and does in fact have varying mechanics at times.

    Music:
    Solid and at times I daresay perfect for some of the scenes.

    Graphics:
    zomg! it looks like pewp! this game was made in 2011!!!!!! That seems to be the attitude of some people and that is rather upsetting. Not every game has to be full 3D with high resolution textures to be considered good or even great. It is not about what it looks like unless that is a selling point. And retro style games are making a strong showing for now so downplaying a game or lowering its rating simply because you want it to look prettier is a rather poor argument. That being said it looked great for what it is.

    Story:
    The important part of this game. While the repetitive actions of gathering memory links from a given memory to solve the rather simple puzzle to get to the next memory might make you want to take a break from this game around Act 2 the story itself is what keeps you interested. And no, there is absolutely no way that anybody can guess the actual story without playing well into the game or reading about it/watching videos/etc because that hand is not played or even remotely revealed until after you are close to and for other items even past the midpoint. Certain aspects of the story may be telegraphed early on but that's no different than any other form of media. Whether or not this game touches your heart is going to be a pretty subjective thing, much like whether or not you still enjoy Disney movies or ever did. The game is not for everyone. I have friends I would not suggest this game to as they would miss the point entirely but having said that, personally I really enjoyed this game. I just wish it would have been longer.    … Expand
  86. TheLagbringer
    Aug 22, 2014
    10
    Aaahh, what a beautiful game. First of all it's not a classic "game", more like an interactive story with few simple puzzles. A pure adventure if you like. At the same time, it doesn't matter. The experience is so damn touching and so deep that it has already been few hours since I finished and I am still thinking about Johnny and everything that happened there.
    I personally prefer    Aaahh, what a beautiful game. First of all it's not a classic "game", more like an interactive story with few simple puzzles. A pure adventure if you like. At the same time, it doesn't matter. The experience is so damn touching and so deep that it has already been few hours since I finished and I am still thinking about Johnny and everything that happened there.
    I personally prefer challenging gameplay and climbing on a learning curve, but I can't ignore beautiful story and design that exceedes anything I played in a long time. Not to mention another strong part of the game - humor. There were many excellent and refreshing humorous parts perfectly placed in between the sentimental ones. As a result, the game is not a huge emo blob, but rather a very enjoyable adventure. Huge emphasis on the storytelling served this game really well, plus it is quite short so you won't get bored and won't really notice any lack of the "game" part before it's finished. It simply stays full and rich during the whole time. As the game itself does not have much else to offer, there are not any particular things I would have to criticize. One big fat recommend here.    … Expand
  87. Look0ut
    Aug 25, 2013
    9
    First time playing this type of game. A game purely based on story with little game play. The story and the soundtrack is amazing.

    However, the repetitiveness game play could get a bit boring. There were parts where I just wanted the game play to end and for the story to continue on.

    Wish the resolution was higher. It caused my second screen to shifted due to the low resolution full screen.
  88. Keychain
    Nov 1, 2013
    9
    An incredibly touching story. Although some parts are predictable, it manages to twist the story enough to keep you wondering what's going to happen next. Only recommended for people who really get into the story of their games. The most "gameplay" this game has to offer is a few easy puzzles, everything else is just story telling. A really, really good purchase that I recommend for thoseAn incredibly touching story. Although some parts are predictable, it manages to twist the story enough to keep you wondering what's going to happen next. Only recommended for people who really get into the story of their games. The most "gameplay" this game has to offer is a few easy puzzles, everything else is just story telling. A really, really good purchase that I recommend for those who enjoy reading a good book.… Expand
  89. DeusXCom
    Jun 4, 2014
    8
    One of most impressive stories told in a video game accompanied by really beautiful piano soundtrack? Absolutely! The problem is that the actual gameplay here is little to none and what little gameplay it has doesn't work well at all. The movement is clunky, minigames and other mechanisms are annoying and there are few game breaking bugs, where either engine collapses making you unable toOne of most impressive stories told in a video game accompanied by really beautiful piano soundtrack? Absolutely! The problem is that the actual gameplay here is little to none and what little gameplay it has doesn't work well at all. The movement is clunky, minigames and other mechanisms are annoying and there are few game breaking bugs, where either engine collapses making you unable to interact with anything or walk through walls, or the game stops completely, so you're unable to progress either way. I will still rate this game highly positively, because if you overcome these problems, you can experience one of the best and most touching stories, but if it's primarily the story and music you have to offer, there might be more suitable mediums to tell it like a movie or animation perhaps, because really, gameplay here is just dragging it down, slowing the story-telling pace or in case of bugs preventing you to progress, forcing you to reload and annoying you. Gameplay isn't any enjoyable here anyway, so there might be much better ways how to present this masterpiece of a story, but it is still highly recommended to check it out, because you don't want to miss such a beautiful tale. 8/10… Expand
  90. CiloH
    Nov 26, 2013
    8
    This game is one heck of a tearjerker. To the Moon is all about it's fantastic story. Not much game play is present. It will make the men weep the sweetest tears and make the women shed the manliest tears.
  91. Trunks252
    Jan 9, 2014
    8
    To the Moon...an interesting review. Its about as much of a game as a movie is. Its linear, with virtually no gameplay. So, all it really has going for it is the story and the music (both of which are excellent). It really is a good piece of media.

    However, i'm not so willing to forgive the game's shortcomings as others. I'm not comfortable calling it a game. Games have gameplay, and    To the Moon...an interesting review. Its about as much of a game as a movie is. Its linear, with virtually no gameplay. So, all it really has going for it is the story and the music (both of which are excellent). It really is a good piece of media.

    However, i'm not so willing to forgive the game's shortcomings as others. I'm not comfortable calling it a game. Games have gameplay, and are more than just interactive. Gameplay is integral to the experience, whereas this 'gameplay' just feels tacked on.

    Dialogue from certain characters feels questionable at best. Neil was not funny in the slightest. He completely ruined the atmosphere and made me very aware that I was playing a game. He seemed less of a scientist and more of a teenage anime pedophile. I understand the benefits of comic relief but this hurt the game without helping at all.

    Also, while the pixel graphics were good and implemented well, I don't really understand why that style was chosen for this game. It has nothing to do with the story or gameplay. I would have expected some type of dreamy style, or even just normal hand drawn sprites. Again, I like the graphics, they just don't feel right for this game.

    Regardless, the story was moving, and the music is very fitting and well done. I foresee listening to the soundtrack for years to come. I would recommend this game to the refined, open minded gamer. Anyone who wants good gameplay needs to skip this one.    … Expand
  92. Shyrtex
    Jan 14, 2014
    10
    I really like the story and absolutely love the music. The graphics is a bit lacking, the game runs in a really low resolution, but this game isn't about gameplay or beautiful graphics. Playing this game feels a little like reading a story book with pictures and a little bit of interaction.
  93. Genezi
    Jun 10, 2017
    10
    Great game. i have spent a lot of time on this title. It has a great story with memorable characters. Good gameplay and best cut scenes with good dialogs.
  94. dilshadali
    Feb 1, 2014
    10
    If you want to play a game with good story, this is the game for u. this game will never let u get bored and this game never let you know what will happen next until u finish this game.
  95. WooD
    Feb 21, 2014
    10
    Incredibly touching, emotional and sincere story of life which won't leave you indifferent. An excellent example of how important is attachment the soul into the game. Developers of AAA titles constantly forget about it.
  96. ketchupboi
    Feb 21, 2014
    9
    This game did everything right, and honestly, I have no idea where I even got this game, bought it from some random bundle site for a $1 and just happened to play it one day. The emotion they put into this game and the characters just take a toll on you, its deep its good, its REAL. The two main characters often argue back and forth, its quite entertaining, really keeps the game alive.This game did everything right, and honestly, I have no idea where I even got this game, bought it from some random bundle site for a $1 and just happened to play it one day. The emotion they put into this game and the characters just take a toll on you, its deep its good, its REAL. The two main characters often argue back and forth, its quite entertaining, really keeps the game alive. Would definitely have loved it to have been a longer story or some sort of sequel.The style of graphics really weren't my thing either but by the end of the game really grew on me.… Expand
  97. Aone
    Feb 16, 2015
    10
    To the moon is one of my best game.. BGM and story is very good and simple graphics is also good. (before i play this game, i played only good-graphics game.) I anticipate the next game of Freebird Games.
  98. HPSPhoenix
    Apr 18, 2014
    9
    With a great storyline, classic RPG graphics and what could possibly be the best music design in gaming, To The Moon is an unforgettable experience.
    Throughout the 5-6 hour campaign, the player will really feel for the characters - they aren't just part of the job by the end. They're almost like family.
    You begin by meeting a man named John on his deathbed. You're part of a company named    With a great storyline, classic RPG graphics and what could possibly be the best music design in gaming, To The Moon is an unforgettable experience.
    Throughout the 5-6 hour campaign, the player will really feel for the characters - they aren't just part of the job by the end. They're almost like family.
    You begin by meeting a man named John on his deathbed. You're part of a company named Sigmund corp who travel through people's memories to implant artificial memories of their life's goal.
    In this case, your subject is John. His wish? To go to the moon.
    I won't spoil any further, but it's a truly incredible game and a must for any classic RPG fan - or anyone, really.

    To the Moon has an amazing music design.    … Expand
  99. HSuke
    Jan 31, 2016
    6
    The game is very inconsistent interactive story. Some parts of the storytelling are wonderfully-emotional. Other parts are random and heavy-handed. Most of it is either confusing or illogical. In the end, except for a few brief moments, there isn't much of an emotional impact. Even if it the story were 10 times better, it still wouldn't live up to a Telltale Game or earlier Final Fantasy games.
  100. Bartor
    Apr 3, 2014
    10
    I've never played a better indie game than this. The story and the O.S.T. are fantastic.
    If you want a game with a awesome story and really good music you should buy this but if you want more action, you should choose another game!
Page:

Awards & Rankings

40
#40 Best PC Game of 2011
22
#22 Most Discussed PC Game of 2011
16
#16 Most Shared PC Game of 2011

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
81

Generally favorable reviews - based on 26 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 22 out of 26
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 26
  3. Negative: 0 out of 26
  1. Gamer.no
    Oct 27, 2012
    100
    To The Moon is one of those games you instantly fall in love with. With it's simple, but elegant design, incredible writing, and thrilling, heartfelt tale, To The Moon is more story than game, but what a story it is.
    Read full review
  2. DarkStation
    Oct 23, 2012
    80
    To The Moon's charming sense of humor and unabashed ease with tossing around pop culture references (from Dr. Who and Animorphs down to Dragon Ball Z) kept the serious, and at times quite gloomy overtones from feeling too self-serious. And so, with John and River's tale being told, restructured and sent to the moon in a heartfelt and memorable way; I am able to walk away from To The Moon satisfied, and looking forward to the next installment in this world.
    Read full review
  3. Thunderbolt
    Sep 3, 2012
    60
    If you're into having your tears tugged at, this will definitely be a change from nights spent curling up on the couch spectating those romance flicks that no one else gets. If you're someone who winds up stuck with the aforementioned individual, originally promised beer and tricked into the awkward Kleenex duty, no guilt will be harbored from missing out.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »