85
Backbone’s narrative and character work are thrilling, complex, and thought-provoking, and the writing deserves all the praise it can get. That said, there is some feeling of the pacing being slightly off, since the final acts feel like they follow too quickly after the introductory ones. Whether it’s due to a lack of time or inspiration, the story could’ve done with at least two more chapters of narrative substance during the middle stretch. Any other issues I might raise with Backbone are mostly trivial. With its inspired script that accentuates themes of dystopia and desperation, this detective story delivers one of the most inspiring narrative-driven titles I’ve played in some time.
60
Uncover a grim conspiracy and sweet-talk snooty bears in this genre-hopping indie game.
75
Backbone has far fewer puzzles and stealth sections than you might expect after finishing the brilliant first act, but it will still keep you engaged thanks to the quality of its storytelling. [09/2021, p.40]
7
While Tails Noir stumbles as a traditional detective game, it carves out a niche as a moody, character-driven narrative experience. This visually striking title prioritizes story over gameplay, but a jarring tonal shift in its final act leaves the overall execution feeling uneven. The story starts as a grounded mystery but pivots abruptly into surreal, Disco Elysium-esque sci-fi in its final hours. While the existential themes are intriguing, the transition feels rushed. Gameplay is minimalistic to a fault. Investigations boil down to linear dialogue trees (which don't affect the outcomes in any meaningful way) sprinkled with some simplistic puzzles/minigames here and there. Fans of detective puzzles will be disappointed, but players craving a melancholic, dialogue-heavy experience – with beautiful visuals included – might forgive its flaws. Just don’t expect a cohesive narrative payoff.
6
Tails Noir starts with immense promise, drawing listeners into its dark, jazzy world with an evocative and atmospheric introduction. The music, especially in the opening sequences, stands out as a highlight, with several tracks still lingering in my playlist. The dystopian vision it presents is both intriguing and thought-provoking, weaving an intricate tapestry of themes and ideas.However, as the narrative progresses, the story seems to unravel. The conclusion feels rushed and convoluted, veering into absurdity as it attempts to create a utopia within the existing dystopia. This nested layer of idealism ultimately undermines the coherence of the initial premise, leaving a sense of dissatisfaction that the bold concept deserved better resolution. Despite its flaws, Tails Noir remains a captivating experience worth exploring for its unique atmosphere and compelling beginning.
2
No I’m sorry. This game is not finished.I played it for free but paid it with the most precious thing:my time. And I wasn’t rewarded.Reminded me of those endings on “culture” films that they leave a lot of questions to the audience but sorry,that wasn’t what I was here for.4 for the effort,dialogues and art design.
Tails Noir
Released On:
Jun 8, 2021
Metascore
Mixed or Average
72
User score
Mixed or Average
6.7
My Score
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Metascore
Mixed or Average
72
45% Positive
14 Reviews
14 Reviews
55% Mixed
17 Reviews
17 Reviews
0% Negative
0 Reviews
0 Reviews
Jun 7, 2021
100
Howard's journey ends far, far away from where it began and each step continuously develops the emotional investment for everyone in this world. While there are minor mechanical issues such as the "interact" input not always being immediately responsive, each element of Backbone is polished and expertly crafted. Backbone is a must-play GOTY contender that deserves every bit of mainstream recognition it receives, and exceeds the usual reach of its genre, making for a compelling experience that even those with little interest in point-and-click adventures will find difficult to put down.
Jun 21, 2021
80
Part noir thriller, part rumination on the human condition, and part ... something else, Backbone is stylish through and through, presenting more questions than answers but brimming with vibrantly realised characters.
User score
Mixed or Average
6.7
37% Positive
30 Ratings
30 Ratings
46% Mixed
37 Ratings
37 Ratings
17% Negative
14 Ratings
14 Ratings
Jan 6, 2024
10
This game is, to put it briefly, beautiful. Despite being a racoon, the main character is incredibly human. The story is powerful and surprising, not what I was expecting but rather much more. If you are looking for a story driven game with some light puzzle solving, than this is for you. It only took me a few hours to complete and was certainly worth every minute.
Mar 1, 2023
10
I love this game's world and characters. Really hit me right after 2020. Never seen a better game with better politics, obviously biased. Don't go into thinking it'll be like the demo or a traditional point and click adventure. Think more of a walking simulator but structured like a point and click.
Jun 15, 2021
78
I walked away from Backbone puzzled about the ending, and in truth, I was a little disappointed. The game kind of squandered the excellent setup it spent hours developing, but because the setup is so good, I don’t feel totally let down. I still enjoyed my time in this dystopian Vancouver populated by animals, and I would almost certainly play a sequel if one were ever developed. But there’s the rub. Backbone feels like it needs a sequel. The story just doesn’t feel complete right now, and given that the game is pretty short (you can probably beat it in about 5-7 hours), it’s hard for me to enthusiastically recommend it. If you’re still interested despite the issues I’ve outlined, make sure you’re prepared for an abrupt conclusion. If you’re on the fence, well… maybe wait for a sale.
Jul 17, 2021
70
This is a fine debut. Backbone uses its seductive looks to enrich a conceptually thoughtful and carefully plotted-out world, and delivers real surprises within a genre that is all about adhering to time-honoured conventions. [Issue#361, p.116]
Jun 7, 2021
70
Backbone is stylish but not exceptional. It’s a good time with an enjoyable story, but otherwise it’s just kind of routine. The visual style is great, but it’s offset by uneven audio design. There’s definitely a lot to love about Backbone, I just don’t feel it sticks the landing quite well. It will be worthwhile playing for most, but I’m more interested in what comes next from EggNut.
Sep 2, 2021
60
Uncover a grim conspiracy and sweet-talk snooty bears in this genre-hopping indie game.
Jun 8, 2021
60
Is Backbone worth a look? Yes, particularly if the idea of playing as an anthropomorphic animal appeals to you. There are times when it’ll have you on tenterhooks and there are several characters that are strong enough to stand out. It’s admirable that this was achieved on a small budget, but ultimately the developers have tried to cram too much in for Backbone to be truly successful.
Jul 3, 2021
10
Уважаю разработчиков как минимум за то что работали так долго и не бросили разработку! Я с видео хепи вульфа
Feb 21, 2025
7
While Tails Noir stumbles as a traditional detective game, it carves out a niche as a moody, character-driven narrative experience. This visually striking title prioritizes story over gameplay, but a jarring tonal shift in its final act leaves the overall execution feeling uneven. The story starts as a grounded mystery but pivots abruptly into surreal, Disco Elysium-esque sci-fi in its final hours. While the existential themes are intriguing, the transition feels rushed. Gameplay is minimalistic to a fault. Investigations boil down to linear dialogue trees (which don't affect the outcomes in any meaningful way) sprinkled with some simplistic puzzles/minigames here and there. Fans of detective puzzles will be disappointed, but players craving a melancholic, dialogue-heavy experience – with beautiful visuals included – might forgive its flaws. Just don’t expect a cohesive narrative payoff.
Feb 19, 2022
7
enjoable writing, atmosphere and visuals.. the pacing is not pleasant nor the gameplay .. but the ending was a bit refreshing
Jul 13, 2021
4
A lovely collection of pixel art pieces doing a very poor job of pretending to be a game. Dialogue is strung out and adds nothing to the experience. The decision to always give the player a choice of 3 different things to say was bafflingly stupid. This is the most on-the-rails narrative experience I've ever played - why did anyone think dialogue choices would help? Really, every game decision made here is pretty self-defeating. The only part of this game that holds up is the art and as magnificent as the art truly is, it's not nearly as good as the overall game is bad.
Summary Backbone is a post-noir roleplaying detective adventure. Become raccoon private eye Howard Lotor as you interrogate a diverse cast of characters, collect evidence, and explore dystopian Vancouver, BC inhabited by animals.
Rated Mfor Mature
