Orwell is one of those incredibly unique productions that introduce many of their own mechanics. While entirely new, it’s not overwhelming when you get used to it - which is why I recommend beating the game in 1-2 sittings (3H), so the tempo can organically grow without hindering the user’s experience with its mechanics.
In the beginning, I got used to the characters being complex but still didn’t expect them to be so unique from each other. Maybe their personalities fit into some stereotypes or tropes, but that doesn’t take away from their overall vibe. Story-wise, wow, very much wow. I thought I knew what I was getting myself into, which maybe made me less likely to expect something more original. The plot and the gameplay go so well together that I forgot that I was not the one working for Orwell…. Maybe saying this out loud is embarrassing but it’s true!
So as not to spoil the game, all I can say is - with all of Orwell’s twists and turns I thought I was at least prepared for them, but they still managed to surprise me. This is a detective story that's fun in every way, so any amateurs out there go get it, seriously.

this is a part of my personal challenge for myself; to write an honest, story-focused review of every game that's been sitting in my library, unplayed or unfinished