Do you remember the days back when we were kids, and when you went outside, you had to be so careful around flowers because of the number of bees present? When we go outside now, this same scenario isn’t repeating and it’s becoming very apparent bees are quickly disappearing from our world. Cue the introduction of APICO (Ah-peek-oh) – the utmost adorable Indie game by Whitethorn Games (Wytchwood, Calico) where it’s your mission to re-populate the bees.
Un-bee-livable? Hardly.
Gameplay and storyline
You’re introduced into the world with a note from your Grandfather asking you to come back to your town island.
Inclusion
One thing I love about Whitethorn Games is they put in a lot of effort for inclusivity in both the aspects of accessibilities for disabled players, and marginalised players. We’re introduced to a wide range of settings before we start the game to make the game not necessarily easier to play, but ease of use. I personally like that you have the ability to go through the trees rather than getting stuck as I know that can sometimes be a massive frustration.
As the game doesn’t have voice actors, we’re blessed with subtitles all the way through (Bee-utiful, if you ask me.)
Another massive win in the inclusion part is the really simple addition of adding the characters pronouns in. Friends, I know it’s not a big deal – but let’s be honest, how long did it take for the Sims to add pronouns in? Freaking years, right? And it’s just those tiny little things that help people feel included, and seen, and gosh bless the creators for it.
Graphics
If you’re a sucker for 8-bit and classic graphics, APICO is going to be right up your alley. The animations are downright adorable, and it’s picks the calm and sweet colour aesthetic just right. Going through the morning/day/evening/night transitions are seamless. Because it’s not physically demanding, you’re not going to need a super power PC to be able to play this game (which is always a strong win in my book!)
Quality
APICO has obviously had a lot of love and hard work put into it, and it shows.
My favourite features:
- Each of the characters in the game has their own pronouns which is such a simple but amazing feature
- A portion of the game proceeds go towards saving the bees
- It’s educational without feeling like it’s being overly pushy
- Whoever came up with the bee puns deserves a pay rise
You should buy this if…
- You love cute and cozy games
- Need something to just relax and unwind with
- Are a fan of stardew valley, but looking for something more simple
- Love bees and nature!
TL:DR
APICO is a game that you play to escape the world and know you’re actively helping it at the same time. Cute bees, planting trees, and the only stress is deciding where to build your hives.
9/10 coffees
