As Long As You're Here

As you can see, As Long as You Here is far from being a traditional game, and that's one of its greatest qualities, addressing sensitive topics in a simple and lighthearted way, even with all the sadness surrounding Alzheimer's.

As Long As You’re Here is more of a social and human experience than a traditional video game. It places the player on an emotional journey that portrays the suffering of those living with Alzheimer’s in a sincere yet heartbreaking way. Despite its simple gameplay, the profound story and gentle music create a deeply emotional and reflective experience—one that stays with you long after it ends.

A triumph of interactive storytelling. It stands as a sensitive, intelligent, and deeply affecting piece of art that understands the unique power of video games to build empathy. While it is a somber and often difficult journey, it is an exceptionally beautiful and important one.

Some may criticize As Long As You’re Here for its short, sixty-minute runtime, and a few might even consider refunding it on Steam. Yet, those who appreciate it for what it truly is—a poignant interactive experience about the far-reaching impact of Alzheimer’s—should see its value. Play it again, perhaps with family or friends, to foster awareness. The unforgettable impression this game leaves reminds us how vital it is to cherish every precious memory before it fades away.

The subject matter is presented in creative, respectful, and effective ways, resulting in an ultimately cathartic experience, as challenging as it sometimes may be on a personal level.

As Long as You’re Here is a quiet, intimate experience that speaks through absence rather than spectacle. By placing the player in the role of the one who remembers, it transforms Alzheimer’s into something lived, not explained. Its strength lies in restraint: simple actions, careful silences, and a story that trusts you to feel rather than react. In just one hour, it creates a bond that lingers far longer than the playtime suggests. This is not a game about winning or overcoming, but about staying present. And in doing so, it proves how powerful videogames can be when they choose empathy over excess.

As Long As You’re Here does an excellent job of letting us see and feel what a person who has Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia is feeling. This one really struck home for me, as we are currently experiencing the same with my husband’s mother. When I wasn’t playing the game, it still stayed in my mind. I think it’s outstanding how creator Marlène Delrive managed this in what was initially an 8-week student project. She started working on this as a way of processing the grief and trying to understand her grandmother’s perspective in her final years, and you can experience it now, too. Often, we talk about the sons and daughters and their struggle to raise their own kids, and meanwhile, take care of their elderly parents. As Long As You’re Here goes into that angle as well, and I can sympathise with Annie’s daughter. But the main focus is Annie, not explaining her condition directly in the game, but letting you feel it yourself.

There is no question in my mind: this game earns a full 5 out of 5 stars. It’s thoughtful, beautifully crafted, and lingers with you long after you set down the controller. If indie games are where the heart of storytelling lives, As Long As You’re Here is proof that the genre is alive, thriving, and capable of something profound.