Narrative Adventures: Exploring 'Inside' and 'Stray' – Are They Gaming Gold or a Wasted Investment?

In the realm of video games, two distinct experiences have emerged that captivate players through their unique narratives and gameplay mechanics. "Inside" and "Stray" share commonalities in their immersive storytelling and atmospheric world-building. In this review, we delve into the core elements of both games to assess whether they represent good investments for gamers seeking meaningful and engaging experiences.

As investors in the gaming industry, and on a weekly basis, do what is called "PlayWork", the team aligns on a game that we play and we come together to share our thoughts and learnings as players first and as investors second. Understanding what is "FUN" and finding what "FUN" means to us is a journey that we continuously iron out.

"Inside" Review: A Dive into the Depths of Ambiguity

Developed by Playdead , "Inside" is a cinematic platformer that seamlessly blends an enigmatic narrative with compelling gameplay. As the player takes control of a nameless boy navigating a dark and foreboding world, the game unfolds with minimal exposition. The lack of dialogue and explicit storytelling fuels the sense of mystery and intrigue that permeates the experience.

"Inside" shines in its ability to convey an emotionally charged narrative through environmental storytelling and visual cues. The dystopian setting is a masterclass in minimalist design, with hauntingly beautiful visuals that conjure a sense of dread and fascination. The game's puzzles, though not overly complex, complement the narrative, serving as metaphors that mirror the boy's journey through a world governed by authoritarian forces.

One notable aspect of "Inside" is its brevity. While the game can be completed in a few hours, it packs a profound emotional punch that lingers long after the credits roll. The concise experience is intentional, leaving players to ponder the game's themes and their personal interpretations.

The question of whether "Inside" is a good investment ultimately hinges on one's appreciation for artistic and narrative-driven experiences. If you seek a short yet impactful journey into the unknown, "Inside" is a game that offers a thought-provoking narrative and impeccable design.

"Stray" Review: A Feline Adventure Amidst Neon Alleys

"Stray," developed by BLUE TWELVE STUDIO and published by Annapurna Interactive, ventures into uncharted territory by placing players in the paws of a stray cat navigating a neon-soaked, cyberpunk city inhabited solely by robots. The game introduces an intriguing premise that promises a novel perspective on the traditional adventure game.

As a feline protagonist, players are tasked with exploring the intricacies of a sprawling, dystopian metropolis, replete with alleyways, rooftops, and enigmatic structures. "Stray" succeeds in immersing players within a meticulously crafted world, where the ambient sounds and visual details contribute to the game's atmosphere.

Where "Stray" truly excels is in its unconventional approach to storytelling. Dialogue is replaced by environmental cues and interactions with the robot denizens, allowing players to piece together the narrative as they progress. The bond between the cat and a small drone companion is heartwarming and contributes to the game's emotional depth.

The question of whether "Stray" is a worthwhile investment depends on one's penchant for unique and unconventional experiences. While the game's premise is captivating, some may find the gameplay somewhat divisive. Puzzles and traversal can occasionally be frustrating, and the game's pacing may not suit those seeking a fast-paced narrative.

Comparing "Inside" and "Stray"

Both "Inside" and "Stray" share common ground in their dedication to environmental storytelling and minimalist design. They challenge players to decipher the narrative through visual and experiential cues, rather than relying on traditional dialogue. This approach adds depth and intrigue to both games, encouraging players to engage with the story on a personal level.

However, the two games diverge in several aspects. "Inside" offers a compact, emotionally charged experience that prompts introspection, while "Stray" immerses players in a visually stunning, open-world setting. The former is known for its brevity, while the latter offers a more extended adventure.

In terms of investment, both games cater to a niche audience seeking unique and artistic narratives. If you value thought-provoking, brief experiences, "Inside" is a worthy choice. On the other hand, "Stray" beckons to those who crave immersion in a visually rich, unconventional world. Ultimately, the decision on their worthiness as investments depends on individual preferences and a penchant for distinctive storytelling approaches.

As VCs Would We Consider Investing in Either? And What Factors Would Influence Our Decision?

The ultimate question out of our weekly "PlayWork" is primarily, would we invest in the game or the genre. Answering that question, would involve a comprehensive analysis of these factors, including a deep dive into the financials, market potential, and development team capabilities. Additionally, assessing the long-term growth prospects, player engagement, and monetization potential will be critical in making an informed investment decision.

As a venture capitalist evaluating potential investments in any studios/games for that matter, I would consider several key factors and ask the following questions to determine which one to invest in if at all.

1. Market Potential:

• What is the current and projected size of the gaming market, particularly in the genre or category these games belong to?
• Can you provide insights into the growth trends for narrative-driven or indie games in the gaming industry?

2. Monetization Strategy:

• What monetization models have "Inside" and "Stray" employed, and how effective have they been in generating revenue?
• Are there additional monetization strategies that can be explored to further increase revenue from these games?

3. User Engagement and Retention:

• Both games have reported their average daily concurrent players. Can you provide more insights into the user engagement, player retention, and any in-game mechanics that encourage long-term play?

4. Critical and Player Reception:

• What are the critical and player reviews and ratings for both games? Are there any common themes in feedback that could impact their long-term success?
• Have either of these games won industry awards or accolades?

5. Development Team and Track Record:

• Can you provide information about the development team behind "Inside" and "Stray"? What is their experience and track record in the gaming industry?
• Have they worked on successful projects in the past, and how does this experience contribute to the potential success of these games?

6. Marketing and Promotion:

• What marketing and promotional strategies were employed for both games, and what was the impact on user acquisition and sales?
• Is there a plan for continued marketing and community engagement to sustain or grow the player base?

7. Profit Margins and Cost Structure:

• What are the current profit margins for each game, and how do these compare with industry standards?
• Are there any cost optimization strategies in place to improve profitability?

8. Gross Revenue and Sales Data:

• Can you elaborate on the breakdown of revenue sources, such as game sales, downloadable content (DLC), microtransactions, or other in-game purchases?

9. Roadmap and Future Content:

• What is the post-launch roadmap for both games? Are there plans for additional content, expansions, or sequels to maintain player interest and generate more revenue?

10. Investment Terms and Exit Strategy:

• What are the proposed investment terms for each game? Are there equity or revenue-sharing arrangements?
• What is the anticipated exit strategy for investors, such as acquisition or public offering?

As investors in the gaming space, investing in content and IP, software and engines, social and streaming services, we are closely monitoring the situation. We want to hear from developers and urge them to get in touch, if we can help, we will certainly do. Reach out to us!

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About Me

Tarek Fouad is a Partner at Shorooq Partners, the preeminent leader in tech investment and fund management across the MENAPT region. Renowned for his visionary leadership, Tarek spearheads Shorooq Partners’ Gaming and Gametech vertical, carving MENAPT’s pioneering path in the Gametech sector and channeling investments into groundbreaking gaming companies on a global scale.

Email: [email protected]