Lost Phone Stories is a game that uses the voyeurism of finding a stranger’s phone in order to educate gamers on difficult topics. This is not the first game in the series. Rather, it is a collection of two games with the same mechanic. One of which, Another Lost Phone: Laura’s Story, has been reviewed here already. I will be looking at both games as a holistic collection. That said, I recommend taking a peek at the other review for a different perspective.

I found Lost Phone Stories to be a charming, though imperfect, collection. The concept coupled with distinct visuals and a dreamy soundtrack results in a game that is unique and fresh. Some players may find the short completion time, limited replay value, and lack of nuance when tackling challenging themes to be disappointing.

Both games begin with the player finding a lost phone and receiving a message. At this point, the snooping begins. Players are able to read through the owner’s text messages. The “game” mechanic starts as players attempt to connect to WiFi and unlock applications; all of which are password protected. Using the owner’s text messages, calendar, and other applications, players become detectives who look for clues concerning the phone’s security. These puzzles are never particularly difficult, however this game’s quality isn’t hinged on challenging puzzles. It is more about the experience.



A look at Laura’s text messages at the beginning of her story

Lost Phone Stories’ mechanics transcend the game itself by allowing players to hold their Switch as a phone. Though I felt silly doing this at first because a Switch is so much bigger than a normal cellphone, I slowly found myself immersed as I used the touchscreen to scroll through messages. At many points during my playthrough, it felt as if I had really found a stranger’s phone.

The game uses this immersive mechanic as an educational tool to explore heavy topics. The first story, A Normal Lost Phone, allows players to explore the life of Sam, who is in a process of self-discovery and exploration of their identity. The second, Another Lost Phone: Laura’s Story, tells of a woman going through trials and tribulations in her close relationships.

I have a deep appreciation for games that are willing to tell the stories of marginalized people. People who often don’t get their stories told. For that, I applaud Accidental Queens. That said, there are points in both stories where the presentation of these difficult, nuanced topics are handled with a heavy hand. Video games are medium where you can present things in almost any way. Therefore, it was disappointing that these themes were told, not shown, to me. That said, as an educational tool, I feel like both of these games have a lot of value because these concepts are simply presented.



A screenshot from a fictional dating app found on Sam’s phone

Lost Phone Stories’ soundtrack impressed me thoroughly. Though the soundtrack for both games was exceptional, I was especially in love with the dreamy tunes of A Normal Lost Phone. The music is presented as if it is simply what the phone’s owner listens to, thus immersing players even further into the story of the game. The music never felt like “video game” music. It was just good music.

In a similar vein, I found the art charming. Photos of characters are digitally drawn and give the game a lot of individuality. Naturally, the decision not to use “real” pictures breaks the phone illusion. However, that is ultimately not important because it gives the game a fresh sense of life.



One of the many hand-drawn photos you can find on the phones

It is because I enjoyed this game that I found myself a little disappointed in how quickly I was able to complete it. Perhaps it is partially because I am a fast reader, but I was able to finish both games, having thoroughly explored the phones, in under three hours. I find that there is little replay value in the game, save for sharing it with friends. For some, it will be difficult to justify the almost $10 price tag. On the other hand, this is one of the few games on the Switch that makes a genuine effort at elevating the experiences of people who often do not get their stories told. For some, that will make the price point worth it.

Ultimately, Lost Phone Stories is a charming little collection of games that I’m happy is on the Switch, regardless of its issues. It is a fresh change of pace from a lot of the games currently available. If you’re looking to learn about experiences that are, perhaps, different from your own, I’d recommend giving it a try.





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