Before Your Eyes offers something that few games have attempted before: the use of real-life blinking to control the narrative. Let’s dive into what makes this game such an unforgettable experience. At the heart of “Before Your Eyes” is its innovative blinking mechanic, which uses your webcam to track your eye movements. Every blink you make in real life influences the game, propelling the story forward and changing the course of events. This simple yet powerful mechanic immerses you in the game’s world by making your involuntary actions—blinking—an integral part of the experience. The game’s narrative revolves around life’s fleeting moments, and the blink mechanic perfectly captures the idea of moments slipping away before you’re ready to let them go.
A Story That Pulls at the Heartstrings
“Before Your Eyes” tells the story of Benjamin Brynn, a recently deceased individual who is being ferried by the Ferryman—a mysterious guide through the afterlife. The Ferryman wants to learn about Benjamin’s life, and to do so, he takes you back through Benjamin’s memories, from his childhood to his final days. The game’s story is beautifully written, focusing on the universal themes of love, loss, regret, and the passage of time. As you blink, you skip through key moments in Benjamin’s life. Some are joyous, like his childhood days with his parents or learning to play the piano, while others are sad or deeply reflective. The game doesn’t shy away from exploring tough subjects, and its narrative impact is heightened by the fact that you have little control over when a memory ends—you blink, and the moment is gone, just like in real life.
The Emotional Impact of Ephemeral Moments
The game’s design taps into a profound emotional reservoir by making you aware of your own blinking. You often find yourself trying to keep your eyes open longer to savor a particular moment or piece of dialogue, only to inevitably blink and move forward in time. This simple mechanic powerfully reinforces the themes of the game, such as the impermanence of life and the preciousness of every second. This mechanic also allows “Before Your Eyes” to explore a unique form of storytelling that feels more intimate and personal than traditional games. By directly involving the player’s actions in the narrative progression, the game creates a strong connection between the player and the protagonist. Every blink is a step closer to the end of the story, reminding players of the fleeting nature of time and the importance of cherishing the moments that matter.