Bloom, by Caelyn Sandel, presents the interactive story of a someone discovering a new identity and wholeness later in life than most. As Sandel puts it, “I started writing Bloom because there are some wonderful stories out there for trans women coming out in their teens and twenties, but few good ones for those of us who came out at thirty or older.”
I happened across Bloom via Kiva Bay, who’s drawn for the project, and after playing just the prologue, decided I’d stick around for the rest. Already there are the seeds of a story that’s new to me, beautiful and sad, but heartfelt, a game of life-exploration and interaction that nonetheless leads the player on a path of discovery.
So far, the game consists of a prologue and episode one, with some moments of choice and others with none. The lack feels stark, and very purposeful; sometimes, there is no choice. No matter how you wander and hem and haw, the story is hurtling toward a very specific outcome, and in that, the game feels very realistic, and for now, very painful. The title (and subject matter) implies a new beginning, though getting there may be an emotional ride.
Bloom features a straightforward style and original music, and is free to play via Sandel’s site. The entire experience doesn’t take much in terms of time spent, but will probably stick with you longer.
