Jaquenetta Berndt

Written by Jaquenetta Berndt

Published: 15 May 2025

27-facts-about-what-remains-of-edith-finch-video-game
Source: Theguardian.com

What Remains of Edith Finch is a game that has captured the hearts of many with its unique storytelling and immersive gameplay. Developed by Giant Sparrow, this narrative-driven adventure explores the mysterious history of the Finch family. Players step into the shoes of Edith Finch, the last surviving member of her family, as she uncovers the secrets hidden within her ancestral home. Each room in the Finch house tells a different story, revealing the tragic fates of her relatives. What Remains of Edith Finch combines elements of exploration, puzzle-solving, and emotional storytelling, making it a standout title in the world of video games. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the genre, this game offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you pondering long after the credits roll.

Table of Contents

What is "What Remains of Edith Finch"?

"What Remains of Edith Finch" is a unique video game that blends storytelling with exploration. Players uncover the mysterious history of the Finch family through a series of short stories, each with its own gameplay style.

  1. Developed by Giant Sparrow: The game was created by Giant Sparrow, the same studio behind "The Unfinished Swan."

  2. Released in 2017: It launched on April 25, 2017, for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Microsoft Windows.

  3. First-Person Perspective: Players experience the game from a first-person viewpoint, making the narrative more immersive.

  4. Anthology of Stories: The game is structured as an anthology, with each story focusing on a different family member.

The Finch Family and Their Curses

The Finch family is central to the game's narrative. Each family member's story reveals more about the supposed curse that haunts them.

  1. Edith Finch: The protagonist, Edith, returns to her family home to uncover her family's past.

  2. Family Tree: The game includes a detailed family tree, helping players keep track of the numerous characters.

  3. Tragic Endings: Each family member's story ends in tragedy, reinforcing the idea of a family curse.

  4. Unique Gameplay for Each Story: Every story features different gameplay mechanics, from flying a kite to transforming into animals.

Awards and Recognition

"What Remains of Edith Finch" has received critical acclaim and numerous awards for its storytelling and design.

  1. BAFTA Awards: It won the Best Game award at the 2018 BAFTA Games Awards.

  2. Game Awards: It also took home the Best Narrative award at The Game Awards 2017.

  3. Indie Accolades: The game is often cited as one of the best indie games of all time.

  4. Critical Acclaim: Critics praised its emotional depth and innovative storytelling.

The House and Its Secrets

The Finch house is more than just a setting; it's a character in its own right, filled with secrets and hidden passages.

  1. Detailed Environment: The house is intricately designed, with each room telling a part of the family's story.

  2. Hidden Passages: Players can discover hidden passages that reveal more about the Finch family's history.

  3. Interactive Objects: Many objects in the house can be interacted with, providing additional context and backstory.

  4. Photorealistic Graphics: The game's graphics are highly detailed, adding to the immersive experience.

Emotional Impact and Themes

The game tackles heavy themes such as death, family, and memory, making it a deeply emotional experience.

  1. Themes of Loss: The game explores themes of loss and how families cope with it.

  2. Emotional Storytelling: Each story is designed to evoke strong emotions from the player.

  3. Memories and Legacy: The game delves into how memories and legacies are preserved within families.

  4. Existential Questions: It raises existential questions about life, death, and what we leave behind.

Unique Gameplay Mechanics

The game stands out for its unique gameplay mechanics, which vary from story to story.

  1. Varied Gameplay: Each story features different gameplay mechanics, keeping the experience fresh.

  2. Innovative Controls: Some stories use innovative control schemes, such as tilting the controller to steer a kite.

  3. Narrative Integration: The gameplay mechanics are closely tied to the narrative, enhancing the storytelling.

  4. Short but Impactful: Each story is relatively short but leaves a lasting impact on the player.

Soundtrack and Audio Design

The game's audio design and soundtrack play a crucial role in setting the mood and enhancing the storytelling.

  1. Original Score: The game features an original score composed by Jeff Russo.

  2. Ambient Sounds: Ambient sounds and music change dynamically to match the mood of each story.

  3. Voice Acting: The game includes voice acting for each character, adding depth to the narrative.

Final Thoughts on What Remains of Edith Finch

What Remains of Edith Finch is a game that sticks with you long after the credits roll. Its unique storytelling, combined with stunning visuals and immersive gameplay, makes it a standout in the world of video games. Each family member's story is a piece of a larger puzzle, revealing the Finch family's tragic yet fascinating history. The game doesn't just entertain; it makes you think about life, death, and the stories we leave behind.

If you haven't played it yet, you're missing out on an emotional journey that's both haunting and beautiful. It's a game that proves video games can be art, offering a narrative experience that rivals the best in literature and film. So, grab your controller and dive into the world of the Finch family. You won't regret it.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.