Review: 1000xRESIST (Switch) -Fi Narrative Masterpiece, Hair To Hair

We acknowledge that we’re somewhat tardy with this review, but it certainly warrants a discussion. Rewind to 9th May 2024 during “Indie Game Day”, when numerous exceptional titles were released at once, showcasing the diversity, artistry, and vital contribution of independent gaming studios. We featured several of these games previously, but this particular gem got overlooked.

Sunset Visitor’s debut recently received a Peabody Award and is nominated for a Hugo Award. Now, a year later, let’s explore what all the excitement is about.

1000xResist is, quite frankly, an impressive work of artistry. That may seem like lofty praise, but Sunset Visitor’s initial offering surpasses all preconceptions and stands proudly on its own. It is also incredibly significant, narrating tales and experiences that illuminate the impact of the Asian diaspora, sisterhood, trauma, and empowerment, all set in a post-apocalyptic sci-fi realm where a teenage girl is the last human standing.

The narrative begins in medias res as Watcher, a ‘sister,’ takes the life of ‘Mother.’ “How do you determine who lives and who dies?” Watcher questions as Mother lies on the floor, bleeding, before turning away. The camera pans to unveil another character, with the music nearly obscured by the sound of a train. Then, the title appears.

This intense introduction lays the groundwork for one of the many enigmas present in 1000xResist, unfolding in a future where a pandemic has decimated humanity. Only a society of clones remains, and upon entering, you’re largely ignorant of your surroundings, navigating through bewildering dialogue options: “Hair to hair, Sister.” “Square to Sphere.” But within an hour, you’re completely engaged, choosing lines that seem nonsensical as if they were your native tongue.

Early in the experience, you discover that Mother is referred to as the ALLMOTHER, a human girl named Iris, who has established a clone society, with six performing distinct roles (like Watcher). Fixer, for instance, oversees repairs, while Knower takes care of the library. What initially feels absurd begins to fall into place. Soon, you realize that Iris, the omniscient “deity” adored by the clones, is merely a complex, troubled teenager.

The writing in 1000xResist is remarkably captivating. No other game so adeptly captures the intricacies of humanity, even while tackling significant, bold themes. Issues like generational trauma, authoritarianism, family dynamics, and abuse—1000xResist is a vast ocean of profound ideas. It’s beautiful yet painful and one of the finest narratives we’ve encountered in gaming.

While much will be said about the style and story, ultimately, 1000xResist is a video game. The mechanics are relatively straightforward; playing as Watcher, you converse and interact with the environment. Dialogue options further enrich the world, especially in the Orchard, a community created by the ALLMOTHER.

This “hub” can be challenging to traverse, even with navigational markers and an (arguably charming) hand-drawn map. Control can feel unresponsive at times, with a noticeable lag when stopping or interacting with items.

Throughout the game, Watcher engages in Communions with other clones to witness the ALLMOTHER’s memories. You might explore locations like a school or Iris’ dwelling, where dialogue and past events unravel as Iris recalls them. Occasionally, you’ll need to navigate back and forth in time to advance or discover new conversations.

Certain segments immerse Watcher in abstract realms where you must manage floating orbs to traverse expansive, blank spaces. Although these segments are infrequent, they can feel less intuitive. Camera control and orb manipulation can be somewhat cumbersome, and they sometimes appear as obstacles preventing you from reaching the next narrative segment, though they’re generally brief and to the point.

In the end, while the Communions can be a bit awkward, they serve as a means to convey the story as we gradually unveil the secrets of the world and the ALLMOTHER in a beautifully engaging manner. When Watcher encounters a crucifix during one Communion, she finds it perplexing that people once revered a “father” instead of a “mother.” She also struggles to understand that individuals lacked functions, or that names didn’t define their roles. Many such exchanges span the realm of human emotions—frustration, humor, sadness, nostalgia, joy, horror, and more.

Throughout, it’s evident that Sunset Visitor proudly showcases its influences and experiences. The development team represents various backgrounds in multimedia and arts, drawing inspiration not only from games like NieR:Automata, but also from titles like 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim and Signalis, alongside influences from media such as Adventure Time, Star Trek, the work of animator and director Satoshi Kon, cinematographers Roger Deakins and Christopher Doyle, and the films of Wong Kar-wai.

The latter two influences are particularly significant, as 1000xResist is ‘shot’ like a cinematic piece. It skillfully utilizes light, color, and spatial composition to enhance scenes, with stunning camera angles and set designs leaving lingering, powerful impressions. Close-ups of faces, framing through circular windows, characters by walls, lengthy corridor perspectives, moments of dialogue or contemplation—all evoke a sense of intimacy familiar to anyone who has watched In the Mood for Love or 2046 (or any other Kar-wai film).

This artistic style is reflected not only in the framing but also in the vibrant use of color and shapes that function within the confines of 1000xResist’s budgetary limitations. It’s a visually arresting game, though the Switch version detracts slightly from this experience. Blurry close-ups and indistinct textures, particularly in handheld mode, can detract from the stunning cinematography at times. Furthermore, loading times can disrupt the narrative flow as you switch between chapters. Currently, Steam offers the most immersive cinematic experience for this game.

However, that doesn’t imply you should avoid 1000xResist on Switch. On the contrary, the artistry, well-crafted characters—with outstanding performances—and a haunting, evocative soundtrack by Line Katcho and Drew Redman collaboratively create a poignant experience that will resonate deeply. Hekki Grace, dear readers.

Conclusion

1000xResist is an embodiment of developer Sunset Visitor’s journeys, crafting a stunning, emotional game with one of the most exceptional narratives we’ve encountered. Despite the Switch port and minor gameplay concerns, this title ranks among the most unforgettable games we’ve played. Confident in its principles and compassionate in its prose, 1000xResist stands as a vital piece of art and exemplifies the ingenuity of indie developers.