Home Behind

I just successfully finished the story mode for the first time (on normal) and I loved it!
It took me 20 hours with 4 or so character restarts (last character died a couple times for stupid reasons but I could still load the last save and correct the mistake).
I hesitated a lot before buying this game, even though it is cheap on discount.
I wanted to buy the sequel for sure (I did, but have not played it yet) but I wasn't sure if I should buy this one too in a package, even though it meant just a dollar more or so. I just did not want to clutter my library with a game that is bad or not fun to play.
I usually check the recent negative reviews of a potential purchase to see if what disturbs people about a game is a deal breaker for me or not. A few things stood out for me even before the purchase:
- It is real-time, not turn-based as I usually prefer.
- It slows down but does not pause when you navigate the character menu to level-up or craft, and when interacting with npcs, reading dialogues, etc.
- Trade opportunities are fully random and unlikely to propose anything possible or useful.
- Some achievements are very grindy and are easier to achieve with the endless mode DLC.
- Some people think that this game promotes dictatorship (even though the sequel seemingly does the opposite).
It turns out that, for me at least, the time pressure element is perfect for this game, where everything else is quite simple and relaxing. I like randomness in games, and this game is a bit like an elaborate solitaire game or slot machine. However, the game gives you plenty of tools to deal with challenges: some meta progression to unlock jobs and improve stats for future runs, optional perma-death so you can decide when to save and come back to it if you die (or just start a new run if your overall situation is really bad anyway), knowledge of the game in general.
It's fun to start a new game, if you don't mind repetition, and failure motivates you to try again!
The country-rock music during combat is hilarious!
I love the overall style and atmosphere.
About the random trades, as you advance in the game you become more likely to be eligible because you carry more and more stuff, have more recipes and you are always able to access inventory and craft during NPC interactions. It might still be an uninteresting trade suggestion but I stumbled upon a few interesting ones in my last few runs and it gave me a nice boost.
Finally I just want to say that I appreciate the story content. I don't think they try to promote one system or side in particular, pretty much everyone in this game has negative aspects to them. I do feel that it is a criticism of war itself, and the state of the world, rightly so. Regime change is deadly, whatever justification or ideology is associated with it; and proxy wars are especially awful.

Hello there!
I like this game. A pretty simple gameplay after spending about an hour remembering the items and crafts. The only downside is the incomplete translation from Chinese and English. I mean, come on, I pay for this game. Isn't it supposed to be ready for global commercialization? What's with the confusing texts?
All in all, a decent game.

Home Behind is a gripping and emotionally charged tactical RPG that delves deep into the human cost of war and displacement. Developed by Winking Entertainment, this game offers a unique narrative experience that goes beyond typical combat mechanics to explore themes of survival, loss, and hope amidst the chaos of conflict. Set against the backdrop of a civil war-torn country, Home Behind challenges players to manage a group of refugees struggling to find safety, resources, and purpose, making it a standout title for those seeking a story-driven, morally complex tactical experience.
The game’s narrative is its strongest asset, unfolding through the eyes of multiple characters each facing their own trials in the midst of turmoil. Players follow the journey of the main protagonist and his family as they flee from war, encountering strangers and enemies alike while grappling with the harsh realities of displacement. The story does not shy away from difficult topics, including violence, loss, and the breakdown of social structures, delivering an emotionally resonant and often sobering experience. Character development is handled with care, giving depth to each party member through personal backstories, dialogues, and moral dilemmas that impact the unfolding events.
Gameplay in Home Behind revolves around tactical combat that blends turn-based strategy with survival management elements. Players must carefully navigate battlefields filled with hostile forces while managing limited resources such as food, medicine, and ammunition. The tension of combat is heightened by the scarcity of supplies and the need to make tough decisions about who gets what, balancing immediate survival against long-term well-being. This resource management adds a meaningful layer to the tactical engagements, forcing players to think strategically both on and off the battlefield.
The combat mechanics themselves are solid and satisfying, emphasizing positioning, cover, and the unique abilities of each character. Each unit in the player’s party comes with distinct skills and equipment, allowing for varied tactical approaches and encouraging players to experiment with different strategies. Enemy encounters are challenging but fair, requiring thoughtful planning and adaptation. The game’s pacing alternates between intense combat sequences and quieter moments of exploration and interaction, giving players time to absorb the story and develop attachments to their companions.
Visually, Home Behind employs a pixel art style that is both nostalgic and effective in conveying the bleak yet hopeful tone of the narrative. The environments range from war-torn villages to makeshift camps, each rendered with a muted color palette that reinforces the somber mood without sacrificing detail. Character sprites are expressive, and the animations during combat are fluid enough to keep battles engaging. The sound design complements the visuals well, with an atmospheric soundtrack that underscores the emotional weight of the story and immersive effects that bring the world to life.
While Home Behind excels in narrative and tactical gameplay, it does present some challenges. The difficulty can be punishing, especially for newcomers to the genre, as resource scarcity and tough enemy encounters demand careful micromanagement. Additionally, the game’s story-driven focus means that some players might find the pacing slow at times, particularly during dialogue-heavy segments. However, these aspects contribute to the overall sense of realism and urgency, reinforcing the game’s themes rather than detracting from them.
In summary, Home Behind is a powerful and thought-provoking tactical RPG that combines meaningful storytelling with challenging strategic gameplay. Its exploration of war’s impact on ordinary people, combined with its blend of resource management and tactical combat, offers a unique and emotionally engaging experience. For players looking for a game that goes beyond traditional war stories to explore the human side of conflict and survival, Home Behind is a deeply rewarding journey that lingers long after the final battle.
Rating: 8/10

I have ALS, What an amazing game to play with just the mouse

If you're having a bad day this is a great way to mellow out.

Very good game!

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