Few indie games captivate with a blend of rich historical tapestry, intricate mystery, and chilling suspense as My Father Lied does. Developed by Lunar Games, this first-person point-and-click title immerses players in Huda’s haunting search — a young woman striving to decode the mysteries surrounding her father’s 20-year disappearance. This mystery dives deep, tracing through 7,000 years of history rooted within the myths and legends of ancient Mesopotamia, now known as Iraq.

Mysteries Beyond Time

For those who’ve ventured into the fog-laden worlds of MYST, deciphered the linguistic puzzles in Heaven’s Vault or felt the eerie ambiance of H.P. Lovecraft’s tales, My Father Lied offers a tantalizingly familiar yet distinct experience. Mesopotamia isn’t just a background, but instead it is a living, breathing entity, prompting players to ponder the line between reality and myth.

The gameplay is streamlined, boasting classic point-and-click mechanics that facilitate smooth player navigation and interaction. On-screen prompts direct every move, whether navigating with arrows or examining details through a magnifying glass. Important clues, reminiscent of life’s cherished moments, are kept in the player’s journal, awaiting their unveiling.

All the puzzles seamlessly integrate with Huda’s journey, adding depth, emotion, and meaning. Although the demo offers just a glimpse of a singular musical score, I'm hoping there will be more variety in decadent music in the full version to enhance the suspense further.

An Iraqi Indie Milestone

One unique feature about this title is that it holds the distinctive honor of being the sole game on Steam from an Iraqi indie game developer. Considering Iraq’s standing as the birthplace of civilization and written texts, this game beautifully pays tribute to its geographical lineage and the timeless power of narratives.

But from a philosophical standpoint, the game’s allure goes beyond an engaging plot and cultural deep dive. My Father Lied showcases the unparalleled potential of video games to unite people of all cultures and religions. While Huda’s journey is rooted in Mesopotamian tradition, its universal theme of loss, discovery, and familial ties resonate globally.

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The Universal Language of Gaming

My Father Lied is not just a game, but it somehow emerges as a beacon of cultural sophistication and narrative excellence. More than just an adventure, it’s a temporal voyage that resonates with tales from civilization’s onset, spotlighting the raw, universal human emotions. As players step into Huda’s world, they discover her personal enigma and the intertwined stories of humanity, underlining our shared bond through the wonderous world of gaming.

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