A Foretold Affair (2017)

In a world dominated by vast, endless deserts, the survivors of this barren land live their lives on massive floating land fractions, far above the desolate surface. Within this harsh world, two distinct types of people exist: Normals and Abnormals. The Abnormals are born with extraordinary abilities, whereas the Normals are those without any form of magic. This segregation forms the backbone of the society where each group leads a very different life, but both are equally affected by the overwhelming isolation and desolation of their environment.

One such Abnormal is Buffalo Seer, a peculiar individual with a rare and coveted ability: the power to see the future. In a society where every Abnormal possesses a unique power, future-seeing is regarded as dangerous and, in many ways, forbidden. Despite these warnings, Seer is determined to use their ability to glimpse into what lies ahead, yearning for the answers that only their power can provide. After much resistance and persuasion, Seer is reluctantly granted permission to peer into their future, but what they discover shocks them beyond belief.

The revelation is nothing short of extraordinary: Seer, despite all odds, has left the Abnormal society behind and is now married to a person they have never even met. The future promises them happiness, a life they had never imagined. Filled with visions of this joyous life, Seer makes a bold decision—leaving everything behind in search of the stranger who is destined to become their spouse. This stranger lives in the fraction of the land where those without magic reside: the Normal society.

Armed with nothing but the knowledge of a future shared with an unfamiliar person, Seer embarks on a journey to convince this individual that they are fated to be together. Their journey will not be easy, as Seer must navigate the complexities of Normal society while proving their love and commitment. But even more daunting is the discovery that the future Seer envisioned may not be as perfect as it seemed. The closer Seer comes to their spouse, the more they realize how far from that bright future they truly are.

A Foretold Affair presents a unique and customizable narrative, where the choices you make significantly shape the journey. The story is driven by over 150,000 words of dialogue and interaction, offering players the chance to choose their pronouns (he, she, or they) and a 'Normal' name for Buffalo Seer. The game includes three potential spouse options: a male, a female, and an agender character, each offering their own distinct relationship dynamics and challenges.

Throughout the game, players will be presented with a variety of decisions, each one altering the direction of conversations and interactions. The choices you make are not just superficial but have real consequences that impact the narrative, ensuring that every playthrough feels fresh and dynamic. While the plot remains consistent, the specific details and character interactions shift based on the path you choose.

The game also features light animation effects and over 20 beautifully illustrated CG images, enhancing the immersive experience. The soundtrack, a soothing piano-based composition, complements the mood of the game, providing an emotional backdrop to the unfolding story.

It’s important to note that A Foretold Affair is not a fully branching story. Rather, it offers a more flexible approach to storytelling, allowing for a rich variety of interactions without completely altering the main plot points. However, these changes help craft a deeply personal experience, making each decision feel meaningful and impactful.

As with many stories of love and destiny, A Foretold Affair is not without its darker elements. The game contains moments of violence, blood, and occasional swearing, offering a raw and emotional journey that reflects the complexities of relationships and the struggles inherent in striving for happiness in a fractured world.

Verdict: Recommended

A Foretold Affair offers a unique blend of fantasy, romance, and choice-driven storytelling. The world-building is intriguing, with a setting that feels both mysterious and expansive. The concept of future seeing and the conflict between "Normals" and "Abnormals" sets up a compelling backdrop for a personal journey of discovery. The ability to customize your protagonist and the inclusion of multiple romantic options adds replayability and personal touch to the narrative.

While the plot may not have fully branching paths, the game's dynamic interactions based on your choices create a satisfying and immersive experience. With an emotional soundtrack, engaging artwork, and an unpredictable journey, this is a game that will appeal to those who enjoy stories with emotional depth and a touch of fantasy. However, be aware of the occasional violence and mild swearing.