Overview

Information is Power. In Memory Thief, players have the opportunity to see just how powerful that information is. As a detective investigating a series of crimes in a futuristic utopia, players witness firsthand this power. The ethical nature of 'memory theft' is questioned as players both use and investigate this powerful technology, and the effect it can have on society as a whole.

Core Mechanics

Memory Thief is a 2-D sidescroller presented as a cross between a typical point-and-click and a platformer. Memory Thief utilises dialogue systems similar to P&C games, while also using platforming for chase sequences and limited combat. The game is presented as a nonlinear series of stages (similar to FEZ) which are accessed through the police station, which functions as a 'hub world'. The game uses a number of real-world constraints - for example,. players cannot jump up or fall very far. Instead, ladders, stairs, and elevators are used to move up and down levels. This also allows the level design to mimic rooms and buildings similar to the game Gunpoint. As players progress through their assigned missions, their technology, items, and clothing can all be customised in order to better suit future missions. Similarly, players can also choose from a number of skill trees that affect their performance in missions. Many of these focus on memory manipulation and conversation, allowing players to further interact with NPCs in different ways.

Narrative

Memory Thief is a game that chooses to focus on delivering a lesson in the dangers of technology. Namely, the issues that can arise from a person losing their memories, calling into question who they really are. At the same time, the game attempts to portray the ethical issues surrounding it. As a supposed 'lawful' representative, players are given numerous situations where they can employ the same technology in order to 'fast-track' their way through situations. However, this can lead to narrative-constructed penalties, with their story changing depending on how well they 'toe the line'. It also opens the window for more strategies; players with information 'stolen' from suspects or criminals can also be used to the main character's advantage. Similarly, players may also find that some criminals have advance warning of their presence or intentions, due to their use of the same technology.

Memory Thief utilises a similar level design system to Noir Syndrome, albeit differing in the navigation between levels.