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A Normal Lost Phone

Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), Linux, iOS, Mac, Android • 2017

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Quick resume

A Normal Lost Phone is a game about exploring the intimacy of an unknown person whose phone was found by the player.

Global score

89/100

Genres

Casual, Indie, Puzzle, Adventure

Pros

  • Well-written and emotionally impactful story
  • Unique and immersive phone interface gameplay
  • Meaningful lgbtq+ representation
  • Pleasant soundtrack and art style
  • Accessible puzzles integrated with narrative

Cons

  • Short length with limited replay value
  • Some puzzles can be cryptic
  • Heavy text may not appeal to all players
  • Lack of gameplay variety beyond reading and simple puzzles
  • No multiplayer or social features

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players freely explore the phone's contents and decide which messages or apps to investigate next, reflecting high personal control and freedom."

  • Competence
    2

    "The game includes light puzzles requiring reading and deduction, offering some skill challenge but overall accessible and not highly demanding."

  • Competition
    -5

    "No competitive elements; gameplay is solitary and focused on personal discovery without comparison to others."

  • Continuation
    -3

    "Short game with limited replay value; players tend to complete it in one or two sessions and do not return frequently."

  • Cooperation
    -5

    "Entirely single-player experience with no multiplayer or cooperative features."

  • Creativity
    3

    "Players creatively piece together story elements and solve puzzles by exploring and interpreting phone data, though no direct creation or modification."

  • Domination
    -5

    "No social dominance or power dynamics; interactions are with narrative content only."

  • Escapism
    4

    "Players use the game to immerse in an emotional narrative and escape real life through story exploration and empathy."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Engagement is voluntary and driven by intrinsic interest in story and themes, not obligation or external pressure."

  • Experimenting
    2

    "Players experiment with exploring different phone apps and messages to unlock new content, though within a guided narrative."

  • Exploration
    4

    "Core gameplay involves discovering new information and secrets by exploring the phone's contents."

  • Expression
    -3

    "Limited customization or self-expression; players interact with a fixed narrative and interface without avatar personalization."

  • Fantasy
    -4

    "Story grounded in realistic, contemporary issues and plausible scenarios without fantastical elements."

  • Fellowship
    -4

    "Primarily a solitary experience with minimal social interaction or community involvement."

  • Growth
    3

    "Players learn about complex social issues and personal identity themes, gaining insight and empathy."

  • Health
    -5

    "Sedentary gameplay with no physical activity or health-related mechanics."

  • Idle
    -4

    "Requires focused reading and attention; not designed for background or casual intermittent play."

  • Intimacy
    4

    "Strong emotional connection to characters and story, fostering empathy and personal reflection."

  • Leadership
    -5

    "No leadership or group management elements; purely individual experience."

  • Progression
    3

    "Progression through unlocking new phone apps and story segments, accumulating narrative knowledge."

  • Relaxation
    3

    "Calm pacing and soothing music create a relaxed atmosphere despite emotional story content."

  • Sensation
    1

    "Moderate sensory stimulation through art and music; emotional engagement more prominent than sensory thrills."

  • Status
    -5

    "No social status or recognition systems present."

  • Story
    5

    "Narrative-driven game with strong emphasis on story immersion and character development."

  • Strategy
    1

    "Minimal strategic or planning elements; puzzles require some reasoning but are straightforward."

  • Thrill
    0

    "Emotional tension present but no suspense or risk-based thrills."

  • Value
    4

    "Highly praised for delivering meaningful content at a low price, considered good value by players."

  • Violence
    -5

    "No violent or destructive gameplay elements."

  • Survival
    -5

    "No survival or threat avoidance mechanics; stable and safe narrative environment."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026