I think it’s obvious when something has been created out of love. Maybe it’s in the garnish delicately placed atop fluffy, steaming rice. Maybe it’s in the subtle differences you see on a living room wall as it reflects the passage of time.
In the case of Venba, it’s both. If you’ve played the demo, the care and attention to detail of the game’s opening level is clear. Now I’ve seen more, courtesy of a preview presentation and roundtable interview with game designer and creative director Abhi. I came away appreciating how Venba wears its heart on its sleeve, regardless of whether or not you pick up on every single reference.
Venba takes place across three decades, and follows the story of a couple – Venba and her husband Paavalan – after they’ve emigrated from South India to Canada. Venba touches on themes of immigration, family, culture and assimilation, and food is the language it uses to navigate these conversations.