Trigger Cut Game Reviews

As a former therapist, I was impressed at how sensitively this cartoony platformer approaches mental illness. Double Fine hired psychologists to help the writers approach these difficult subjects in a mature, informed way and it shows.  Like the first game you are entering people’s minds and essentially platforming your way through their traumas and insecurities.  For example, the first level is centered around a character’s deep fear of going to the dentist.  This leads to a gruesome yet fun level.  I won’t spoil any other levels but the rest are similar in that they approach dark subjects such as phobias and trauma in a way that remains colorful, creative, and fun.  Double Fine’s ability to walk this difficult tightrope of approaching serious issues while remaining light and fun is a truly amazing feat.  I’ve played a ton of 3D platformers in my life and this is the only one where I felt connected to the story.  I had a bit of a rocky childhood that left me with a substantial amount of trauma.  I also suffer from several diagnosed mental illnesses so while this sounds corny, I felt seen by this game. While the story and creativity on display is the main draw, the gameplay is no slouch.  The platforming isn’t as tight as something like the Mario games but it is good enough.  The collectibles come in the form of thoughts and it’s fun to find them all.  There is far more combat in this game than the average 3D platformer and it works well.  I play games to have fun, I don’t need to connect to a game in any emotional way to enjoy it. However, when I do connect to a game and it elicits emotion from me, it adds so much to my enjoyment and appreciation of a game.  Media that tackles difficult subjects such as depression, trauma and anxiety can be triggering to those that suffer from it however, it can also make you feel less alone.  I encourage anyone that suffers from these issues as well as any fan of 3D platformers to play this game.  I can almost guarantee you that you will feel something and that may be all you need.