GAME REVIEW: Grace's Diary

Grace's Diary is an interactive visual novel by Hima that follows a young girl by the name of Grace as she attempts to save her friend, Natalie, from what appears to be a very abusive relationship with a young man named Ken.

During the game the player is given the opportunity to explore Grace's room, pointing and clicking on different items in an effort to stir up memories and collect information necessary to aid Grace in reaching out to and helping her friend.

The items collected directly influence the end results as well as educating the player as to the warning signs to look out for if you suspect someone you know may be in an abusive relationship as well as the steps that can be taken to try to help someone unfortunate enough to end up in an abusive relationship.

After a quick play-through I can honestly see why this game won first prize in the 2010 Life. Love. Game Design Challenge. It's elegant in its simplicity, educational, relatable and absolutely beautiful. The art and the music used within the game are just beyond words. I truly could not be more in love with this game if I tried.

I'd recommend everybody try it at least once - it's nowhere near time consuming and it's definitely getting across a message that I, as a survivor of domestic violence, believe really needs to be heard by the younger generation.

To play this wonderful game click here: http://jenniferann.org.p8.hostingprod.com/2010-game-first-place.htm
Alternatively you can preview the game play in the YouTube video below: