Wheels of Aurelia : Game Review

Experience the freedom of the open road in this unique interactive narrative game.

Wheels of Aurelia is an intriguing indie game that takes players on a narrative-driven journey through 1970s Italy. The protagonist, Lella, embarks on a road trip along the famous Via Aurelia highway, engaging in meaningful conversations and facing decisions that shape the outcome of the story. This interactive storytelling experience creates multiple branching storylines, providing a captivating and thought-provoking gameplay.

The heart of the game lies in the conversations that Lella has with the diverse characters she encounters along her journey. These interactions shed light on the social and political issues prevalent in 1970s Italy, offering players a glimpse into the historical context of the time. The branching narrative system ensures that each playthrough unveils new perspectives and outcomes, inviting players to delve deeper into the lives of the characters.

One of the standout features of Wheels of Aurelia is its stunning visual presentation. The game's retro-inspired graphics, vibrant colors, and stylish art direction perfectly capture the essence of the 1970s. The meticulous attention to detail in the environment and the cars adds an extra layer of immersion. Furthermore, the carefully selected soundtrack, featuring authentic 1970s Italian music, enhances the atmosphere and transports players back in time.

Despite its relatively short playtime, with a single playthrough lasting less than an hour, Wheels of Aurelia offers considerable replayability. The multitude of branching paths and endings encourage players to revisit the game and discover new outcomes, fueling fresh and engaging experiences with each playthrough. Additionally, the inclusion of local multiplayer enables players to share the immersive journey with a friend.

Overall, Wheels of Aurelia is an enthralling game that seamlessly combines storytelling, historical context, and stunning aesthetics. By engaging in meaningful conversations and exploring different paths, players are invited to reflect on the social and political issues of 1970s Italy. With its unique narrative approach and captivating visuals, Wheels of Aurelia provides a memorable and replayable experience that deserves attention.

What do players think?

"Wheels of Aurelia" is an interactive game that takes place in 1970s Italy and has generated a diverse range of opinions among players on Steam. Some players are enthralled by the game's unique concept and captivating storytelling, while others feel that it lacks substance and fails to provide an engaging experience.

Positive reviews highlight the immersive narrative of the game, which unfolds within the backdrop of real-world events and political turbulence in 1970s Italy. Players appreciate the historical accuracy and meticulous attention to detail, as well as the multiple storylines that branch out and offer various endings. Moreover, many enjoy the innovative gameplay mechanics that combine narrative elements with driving, resulting in a truly distinctive experience.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of 1970s Italy with stunning stylized graphics.

Detractors of "Wheels of Aurelia" argue that despite its promising concept, the game falls short in its execution. Some players find the storylines repetitive and criticize the lack of meaningful choices, which leads to an ultimately unsatisfying experience. Furthermore, the driving mechanics are deemed underdeveloped by some, as they fail to fully immerse and excite players.

Opinions on the game's art style are split. Some players appreciate the retro-inspired visuals, which effectively evoke the atmosphere of 1970s Italy. The soundtrack also receives praise for its fitting music that enhances the immersion. However, others find the visuals lackluster and lacking in detail, which detracts from the overall experience.

The game's relatively short duration is another point of contention among players. While some consider the shorter playtime suitable for a narrative-driven experience, others express disappointment with the lack of replayability and feel that the content provided does not justify the price.

WheelsOfAurelia ItalianRoadTrip InteractiveNarrative