Last Holiday

Many games are centered around exciting plots, amazing fantasy worlds, and action-packed adventures. But that’s not the case of today’s game: Last Holiday, developed by Boomer Games, is a nostalgic adventure game that takes players on a journey back to the year 2000 in a picturesque North Bohemian village. The game centers around a young boy who seeks refuge from his angry father after failing his high school exams. As the player, you must take care of all your needs, including food, drink, cigarettes, beer, girls, and everything that goes with village life, all while dealing with constant bullying from your rival, Bruno. So, let’s talk about the game

About the game

The open-world setting allows players to freely roam the village, chatting with locals, completing odd jobs, and immersing themselves in the cheerful festivities. There are no imposed objectives or time limits, giving players the freedom to indulge in whatever Winter activities they choose. Whether cooking pierogis with the grandmother, ice skating on the frozen lake, or cozying up by the fire with hot cocoa, the options for embracing a relaxing holiday spirit are endless.

Though the atmosphere is charming and whimsical, the game does lack direction which can lead to a feeling of aimlessness. There are no meaningful story elements or character development, the gameplay consists solely of checking tasks off a list with no ultimate purpose. For those looking for an engaging plot or gameplay mechanics, Last Holiday may seem quite barebones. However, for players seeking a cozy escape and opportunity to find joy in simple pleasures, this village simulation achieves its goal.

A boring village?

Last Holiday's world is a charming, vibrant representation of small-town life in the year 2000. The village is filled with colorful characters, each with their own unique personalities and quirks. From the grumpy bartender to the friendly shopkeeper, each character feels like a real person with their own motivations and desires. The game's writing is excellent, with witty dialogue that never feels forced or out of place.

The game's mechanics are also well-implemented. Managing your character's needs adds a layer of strategy to the game, as you must balance your hunger, thirst, and other needs while completing tasks and exploring the village. The game's puzzles are challenging but not frustrating, and the game's world is filled with secrets and hidden areas, rewarding players who take the time to explore every nook and cranny.

Last Holiday shares many similarities with classic point-and-click adventure games like Monkey Island and Grim Fandango. The game's focus on exploration, puzzle-solving, and witty humor is reminiscent of these classic titles. However, Last Holiday has a unique charm and personality that sets it apart from these games. The game's setting and time period make it feel like a nostalgic trip back in time, and the game's writing and characters are refreshingly original.

The pros:

• Charming atmosphere
• Peaceful and relaxing
• Great opportunity to unwind

The cons:

• Lack of direction or purpose
• Barebones plot and gameplay
• Short-lived escapism