We Are OFK

We Are OFK incorporates elements of a visual novel and a televised biopic to tell an emotionally rewarding story about a band coming together.

Teen angst, a diverse cast, and simplistic interactivity accompany a real life music EP.

An uncomfortable blend of vulnerability and brand consumption.

An heartfelt biopic that explores the highs and lows of breaking into the music industry.

Impressive efforts with a few noticeable problems holding them back. Won't astound everyone, but is worth your time and cash.

Life blows up sometimes, especially if you’re trying to make a living as a creative. Art is extremely volatile under capitalism. But through support systems that uplift us, whether that’s pushing us to do better or joining our indie pop band, we come to find out that we are o-fucking-kay.

We Are OFK is an incredibly well-written game that stretches the boundaries of the medium. There's not a lot of traditional gameplay, but the characters are so well-realised and the writing so strong that even though there's not much for you to do during each of the episodes, the act of being there and listening remains highly engaging. Between the strong art and soundtrack, there's a lot to like, even if there's not a lot to play.

We Are OFK is a wonderful debut in both the video game and pop music scenes.

We Are OFK does not propose the dynamic kind of gameplay that most games do. Rather, We Are OFK is more akin to a biopic where the player follows the tribulations of a burgeoning music group, and it knows how to deliver on that. Its characters are fun to follow, and the dialogues are well written to keep the player's attention focused. Coupled with a stunning looking visual environment and art style, We Are OFK is certain to appeal to those willing to embrace an experience that's not based on interactive gameplay. Even so, more ramifications and consequences for the few plot choices available would be very welcome.

In the same way that films like Nope and La La Land are about films, We Are OFK feels like it’s about creating music, or perhaps more broadly but also more accurately: how painful and hard it is to create art with people you love, including yourself. And I played and replayed We Are OFK about a dozen times from its release to this chilly day. It wasn’t intentional for me to have such a long time with the game but it was ultimately for the better, I think. Life kept interrupting not only my review but my memories of We Are OFK.