Cinders is a witty young woman living with an overbearing stepmother and her two daughters, as if she was reenacting a certain well-known fairytale. But unlike its protagonist, Cinders is not afraid of taking fate into her own hands. Even if it means breaking the rules…
The game takes a look at four women and what made them who they are. It’s a story about balancing freedom and dreams with circumstance and harsh reality. About growing up and finding out the true meaning of independence. Distancing itself from the judgmental simplicity of the original, Cinders tries to explore the more complex nature of oppression, responsibility and innocence.
Choices shape the flow of narrative as well as protagonist’s personality in Cinders. With over 120 decisions points and 300 options to pick from, players may choose to follow the original story or turn it around completely. Maybe instead of becoming the Queen, Cinders would prefer to run away and start a new life or poison the Stepmother and take her place?
Cinders was very warmly received by the press and player alike upon its release. IndieStatik named it as the “Finest Example of Word Science” in their yearly indie game awards. The game was also praised for its feminist overtones and believable characters. Kotaku wrote: “MoaCube focuses on the women of the tale. The game is about nuance, is about understanding the motivations of another human being.”
Cinders is currently available on Steam and MoaCube’s website for $19.99. Review copies are available upon request.
Links:
Website with more info: http://moacube.com/games/cinders/
Cinders on Steam: http://store.steampowered.com/app/293680