34 Facts About Tacoma (Video Game)

What is Tacoma?

Tacoma is a narrative-driven adventure game developed by Fullbright, the creators of the critically acclaimed game Gone Home. Set aboard a high-tech space station in the year 2088, players explore the lives of the crew members through interactive storytelling and environmental exploration.

1. Tacoma was released on August 2, 2017. It became available on multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Xbox One, and PlayStation 4.

2. The game is set in the year 2088. This futuristic setting allows for a unique exploration of advanced technology and human interaction in space.

3. Fullbright, the game's developer, is also known for Gone Home. Gone Home is another narrative-driven game that received critical acclaim for its storytelling and exploration mechanics.

4. Tacoma's story revolves around a space station. Players investigate the abandoned station to uncover the mystery of what happened to its crew.

5. The game uses augmented reality (AR) to tell its story. Players can view and interact with AR recordings of the crew members' past activities.

The Crew of Tacoma

The crew members of Tacoma are central to the game's narrative. Each character has a unique backstory and personality, which players uncover through exploration and interaction.

6. There are six main crew members in Tacoma. Each character has a distinct role and background, contributing to the overall story.

7. The crew members include a captain, a medic, and a technician. These roles are essential for the operation of the space station.

8. Players can access personal logs and messages. These logs provide insight into the crew members' thoughts and relationships.

9. The characters' stories are interconnected. As players piece together the narrative, they discover how each crew member's actions impact the others.

10. The game explores themes of isolation and human connection. The crew members' interactions highlight the challenges of living and working in space.

Gameplay Mechanics

Tacoma offers a unique gameplay experience that combines exploration, puzzle-solving, and narrative elements. The game's mechanics are designed to immerse players in the story and environment.

11. Players can rewind and fast-forward AR recordings. This mechanic allows for a deeper understanding of the events that took place on the station.

12. The game features a non-linear narrative. Players can explore the space station in any order, uncovering the story at their own pace.

13. Environmental storytelling is a key aspect of the game. Players learn about the crew and the station through detailed environments and objects.

14. Tacoma includes light puzzle-solving elements. These puzzles are integrated into the narrative and help advance the story.

15. The game has no combat or enemies. The focus is on exploration and storytelling rather than action.

Development and Reception

Tacoma's development and reception provide insight into the game's impact and the creative process behind it. Fullbright's approach to storytelling and design has been praised by critics and players alike.

16. Development began in 2014. Fullbright announced Tacoma shortly after the success of Gone Home.

17. The game was initially set to release in 2016. However, the release was delayed to ensure a polished final product.

18. Tacoma received positive reviews from critics. Reviewers praised the game's storytelling, atmosphere, and innovative mechanics.

19. The game won several awards. These include the Excellence in Narrative award at the 2018 Independent Games Festival.

20. Tacoma was featured in several gaming conventions. These include PAX and E3, where it garnered attention from the gaming community.

Interesting Facts

Tacoma is filled with intriguing details and Easter eggs that enhance the player's experience. These elements add depth to the game and reward attentive players.

21. The space station's design was inspired by real-life space habitats. Fullbright researched NASA and other space agencies to create a believable environment.

22. The game includes references to Gone Home. Fans of Fullbright's previous game will notice subtle nods to its predecessor.

23. Tacoma's soundtrack was composed by Chris Remo. Remo is known for his work on other indie games, including Firewatch.

24. The game features diverse representation. The crew members come from various backgrounds and cultures, reflecting a future where diversity is the norm.

25. Players can interact with almost every object on the station. This level of interactivity adds to the immersion and realism of the game.

Behind the Scenes

Understanding the behind-the-scenes aspects of Tacoma provides a deeper appreciation for the game's creation and the team behind it.

26. Fullbright is an independent game studio. The team is known for its focus on narrative-driven experiences.

27. The game's development involved extensive research. This included studying space travel, technology, and human psychology.

28. Tacoma's voice acting was recorded remotely. The actors recorded their lines from different locations, reflecting the game's theme of isolation.

29. The game's art style is distinctive. It combines realistic and stylized elements to create a unique visual experience.

30. Fullbright used Unity to develop Tacoma. Unity is a popular game engine known for its versatility and ease of use.

Legacy and Impact

Tacoma has left a lasting impact on the gaming industry and continues to be a reference point for narrative-driven games. Its innovative approach to storytelling and gameplay has influenced other developers and games.

31. Tacoma is considered a pioneer in narrative-driven games. Its unique mechanics and storytelling have inspired other developers.

32. The game has a dedicated fanbase. Players continue to discuss and analyze Tacoma's story and characters.

33. Tacoma is used as a case study in game design courses. Its innovative approach to narrative and gameplay makes it a valuable learning tool.

34. The game's themes remain relevant. Issues of isolation, technology, and human connection continue to resonate with players.

Final Thoughts on Tacoma

Tacoma offers a unique gaming experience with its rich storytelling and immersive environment. The game’s focus on exploring a space station and uncovering the lives of its crew members sets it apart from typical action-packed titles. Players get to piece together a narrative through augmented reality recordings, making every discovery feel personal and impactful. The attention to detail in the game’s design, from the realistic setting to the diverse characters, adds depth to the overall experience. Whether you're a fan of science fiction or just enjoy a good story, Tacoma has something to offer. Its blend of mystery, exploration, and emotional storytelling makes it a standout game worth playing. So, if you’re looking for a game that’s both thought-provoking and engaging, give Tacoma a try. You won’t be disappointed.