Manual Samuel (2016)

Manual Samuel is an inventive adventure game that introduces a highly unusual gameplay mechanic. Following a fateful agreement with Death, the main character, Samuel—a wealthy and pampered young man—is challenged to maintain control over every aspect of his body for a full 24 hours. Players are tasked with managing fundamental bodily functions, such as breathing and blinking, alongside everyday actions like walking, driving, and working, all executed manually. This extreme control requirement sets the stage for a uniquely demanding and entertaining experience. Complicating matters further, Death constantly accompanies Samuel, creating situations that can quickly escalate into highly precarious circumstances.

Story and Narrative

The game delivers a humorous yet compelling narrative focused on themes of love, redemption, and mortality. As Samuel navigates the challenges imposed by his pact, players uncover hidden elements and secrets woven throughout the story. The interactions with other characters, combined with the consequences of Samuel’s manual actions, shape an engaging storyline that balances comedy with the stakes of surviving under Death’s watchful eye.

Visual Style

Manual Samuel features distinct, hand-drawn 2D artwork and fluid animation, bringing the game’s world to life in vivid detail. Every scene and character movement is carefully crafted, contributing to a visually striking environment that complements the game’s unusual mechanics and enhances the overall comedic and adventurous tone.

Gameplay Mechanics

The core gameplay revolves around precise manual control over Samuel’s entire body. Each action, from breathing to complex tasks like driving a car, must be individually managed by the player. This mechanic creates a highly interactive and challenging experience, requiring concentration, timing, and coordination. Players can also engage in a local cooperative mode, where two participants share control of Samuel’s body, introducing an additional layer of complexity and fun. For those seeking an extra challenge, the game includes a time-attack mode that tests skill and efficiency under pressure.

Audio and Dialogue

The game’s soundtrack, composed by Sondre Jensen and Ozan Drøsdal, complements the gameplay with music that underscores both tension and humor. The narrative is further enhanced by over 600 lines of dialogue, delivered by skilled voice actors who bring depth and personality to each character. These elements work together to create an immersive experience that engages players both visually and audibly.

Additional Features

• Engaging storyline combining humor, romance, and the concept of death.
• Detailed hand-drawn 2D graphics with smooth animation sequences.
• Local co-op option allowing shared control of the protagonist’s actions.
• Challenging time-attack mode designed to test player precision and reflexes.
• Original soundtrack enhancing the atmosphere and pacing of the game.
• Extensive voice acting with a wide range of dialogue to deepen character interactions.

Overall, Manual Samuel delivers a highly unique and meticulously designed gameplay experience, where players must manage every aspect of the protagonist’s life with precision, all while exploring a quirky and immersive world filled with humor and challenges.

Manual Samuel is a fun and quirky game that will make you laugh and sometimes scream. Controlling every little action of Samuel’s body is strange but entertaining. The story is silly, the art is charming, and the voice acting is full of personality.

It’s not an easy game, and it can get frustrating if you’re not patient. But if you like games that are different and enjoy humor mixed with challenge, this one is worth your time. Playing with a friend adds extra fun.

We recommend Manual Samuel. It’s a unique experience that stands out and offers hours of weird, enjoyable gameplay.