Jorge, a cynical wheelchair-bound ex-cop, teams up with the plucky journalist Melinda after they both witness a murder in Mi’pu’mi’s The Flower Collectors.
The game takes place in 1970s Spain, which was on the cusp of turning from a nationalist regime into a modern democracy. These things never happen without birthing pains, which is why the atmosphere is tense all around. Post-Franco Barcelona is a bit of a political powder keg. Besides, Jorge himself used to be a policeman during the old regime and has a deep dislike for “those leftists” that seem to be everywhere these days.
So, there’s a dead body in the street and Jorge is literally stuck on his second floor balcony, only able to survey his surroundings. Thus, gameplay mostly consists of using your binoculars to search for items or events that trigger the story to continue. You can also give orders to your partner in crime-solving. This feels somewhat simple, but what else are you to do when you’re wheelchair-bound?
Frustration can sometimes set in when you cannot find the next trigger. Carefully scanning the whole area usually helps. Still, this sometimes feels like you’re playing Where’s Waldo? instead of solving a thrilling murder mystery. The game is also very linear, making you look for hints in a set order.
In spite of these minor niggles, there is a lot to like here. The cast of characters is fairly small, but interesting enough. All of them seem to have something to hide and are definitely more than they let on. Even the nice old lady across the street has a secret! In the end, this isn’t just a game about solving a murder case. It is about people living their lives, community, and the old ways interfering with necessary change (Bonus points for getting unapologetically political!).
This article wouldn’t be complete without a Rear Window reference, so yes, of course this borrows heavily from Hitchcock’s masterpiece – right up to the point where you have to guide Melinda as she sneaks into another building. And that’s totally fine, as the game firmly stands on its own feet in every other regard.
The Flower Collectors couldn’t quite wow me like Mi’pu’mi’s previous game, the absolutely stellar The Lion’s Song. However, the mystery at the heart of this slow-paced political thriller is engaging enough for a wholehearted recommendation.
The Flower Collectors is available now on Steam.
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