Nour: Play with Your Food, developed by Terrifying Jellyfish and published by Panic, serves up a unique, experimental experience that celebrates the artistry of food. Unlike conventional games, Nour doesn’t adhere to scores or time limits, instead inviting players to unleash their creativity in a series of surreal culinary scenes. From a symphony of toasters to a bathtub filled with ice cream, Nour transports players to a whimsical foodie fantasyland – we explored that world on a PlayStation 5.
The game’s premise revolves around 20+ vignettes, each one a canvas for players to craft their own gastronomic masterpiece or orchestrate delightful chaos – the latter of course being the most fun. The visuals are a true standout, boasting very realistic 3D models that are affected by a decent physics model. With an assortment of tools and spells at your disposal, you’re given free rein to transform food into vibrant works of art.
Nour excels in providing an amusing free-form gameplay experience, allowing for a wide range of interactions. The integration of the DualSense controller’s features is also commendable, adding an extra layer of immersion. The dynamic soundtrack, reactive to your actions, contributes to the overall experience as well, making this is a title where it’s easy to lose track of time.
However, while Nour offers an initial burst of fun, it’s more of a quick snack than a full-course meal. The lack of a clear end goal means that the experience can be devoured in just a couple of hours. While additional ways to interact with each level are introduced and playing with food is actually encouraged here, the game might leave players feeling a bit unsatisfied in the long run. The novelty factor, though delightful, may not sustain everyone’s interest indefinitely.
The visuals in Nour are a feast though, showcasing meticulously detailed food items in vibrant, sleek environments. The level of granularity and the ability to get up close and personal with the creations is a testament to the game’s attention to detail. As such, each vignette invites players into a world where food is not just a feast for the stomach, but also a spectacle for the eyes.
The game’s musical mechanics, while ambitious in the way they react to player interactions, occasionally stumble in execution. The idea of creating music through interactive elements is intriguing, but the timing and sound design could benefit from a little bit of refinement.
Ultimately, Nour: Play with Your Food is a visually stunning, experimental art piece that encourages players to explore the playful side of food. Its aesthetic charm and engaging interactions make it a worthwhile experience, especially for those with a taste for the unconventional. However, the lack of clear objectives might leave players wanting more. Nour is a delightful appetizer, but it may not be a main course for everyone.
Score: 6.6/10
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