Desta: The Memories Between review: Netflix scores another great mobile game

digitaltrends.com:

Netflix is not kidding around when it comes to mobile games. While its initial push into the space underwhelmed with a lackluster selection of titles, the subscription service has gone from 0 to 60 in the past few months. Subscribers have been treated to an excellent assortment of games, from exclusives like Poinpy and Lucky Luna, to ports of indie darlings like Into the Breach.

Now, it can add another hit to its list. Desta: The Memories Between is the latest game from Ustwo, the developer behind Monument Valley. It’s a cross between a narrative game about returning home, a grid-based tactics title, and a dodgeball game — all with some small roguelite hooks and live-ops support. It’s a unique experience that’s custom-built for mobile devices with tactile controls and quick levels.

It’ll come to Steam and Nintendo Switch in the coming months, but it’s launching exclusively on Netflix today. While it’s a brief experience at the moment with some overworked genre hooks, it’s a strong addition to Netflix’s growing library of gems. If you have a Netflix account, don’t be part of the 99% of users who are reportedly missing out on titles like this.

Desta: The Memories Between is about a non-binary protagonist named Desta who returns to their hometown after a long absence. Desta is understandably anxious about the trip, worried about what all the townie friends they left behind will have to say to them (not unlike the Tribeca Fest-winning Thirsty Suitors). Those fears begin creeping into their dreams, as their nights are filled with imaginary confrontations against old pals, teachers, and more.

Desta’s story is a relatable one, even if the short game doesn’t dive too deeply into their psyche. We see their worries projected onto