Imprinted

Imprinted is a slow-burning psychological thriller presented entirely within a simulated desktop operating system. The player takes the role of Vince, a talented but jaded sound engineer who restores heavily damaged recordings, including botched live performances, forensic material and supposed audio ghosts. A new job brings him tapes belonging to Viola Fossati, a musician who disappeared in Northern Italy almost fifty years ago. What starts as routine restoration turns into an investigation into forgotten performances, impossible recordings and Vince’s own obsessions.

The game is played by working through Vince’s computer. Players restore audio using mechanics based on realistic workflows, and each repaired tape provides new leads while bringing up parts of Vince’s past. The investigation draws on files, obscure forums, emails and hidden archives. Players can also read Vince’s old emails and browser history to learn about his dating history and personal connections, and they can use a range of audio software.

Other features include live-action FMV and found media within the desktop environment. Players can compose original music in Nuvola, a music creation tool, using Vince’s unfinished ideas. The story spans several decades and is set between Northern Italy and Southern Germany. Pictures of dogs are also scattered across the computer.