After Us

After Us, also known as Gaia: Spirit of Life, drops players into a post-apocalyptic world where nature fights to breathe again. You play as Gaia, a spirit on a mission to rescue the souls of extinct animals. It’s part platformer, part puzzle game, wrapped in a unique artistic style that’s hard to forget. Controls might throw you off at first—note to self: always check if you need a controller—but once you get rolling, the game offers a thoughtful, if sometimes tricky, experience.

What’s the Gameplay Like?

Looking for intense combat? This isn’t it. After Us focuses more on exploration and puzzles. Gaia can jump, glide, and dodge traps, while also cleansing pollution from enemies called Devourers. It’s more about brains than brawn here. Need a challenge? You got it.

• Platforming with a twist — think careful timing, not button mashing
• Puzzle-solving to restore lost souls and progress
• No fast-paced fights, but a few tense moments dodging danger
• Controller required — keyboard and mouse won’t do the trick

The Visuals and Style

If you like games that look like moving artwork, this one’s for you. After Us blends abstract and surreal 3D art to create a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. It’s not your typical colorful platformer; expect a darker, moodier vibe that pulls you into its world. Just a heads up — at times, the visuals can feel a bit overwhelming or confusing, but it’s mostly a fascinating sight.

Why Give After Us a Try?

So why bother with After Us? It’s not perfect. The controls can be frustrating, and the pace is slow for those craving nonstop action. But if you’re intrigued by environmental stories and don’t mind a few platforming hiccups, this game offers something a bit different.

• Unique storytelling through gameplay
• Environmental themes without feeling preachy
• Free to download — so no risk in giving it a spin
• A world worth exploring, if you have patience

Final Thoughts

After Us isn’t trying to win any speedrunning trophies. It’s a quiet journey, asking you to slow down and think. Controls can be annoying—lesson learned: always have a spare controller handy. But if that doesn’t scare you off, it’s a fresh, artistic take on platform adventures worth exploring.