This summer, I had the chance to play “Boku no Natsuyasumi.” This game was the main reason I started researching video games about childhood and Japan, particularly those with a cozy and slow-paced feel. The original game, which was released in the 2000s, was never officially localized, so the only language available was Japanese ๐ฏ๐ต. However, thanks to a fan-made Spanish translation, I was able to play it in my native language. Futhermore, I’ve been playing it following another player’s recommendation: one day in real life (play time) equals one day in the game (game time). In other words, I only play Boku no Natsuyasumi’s August days during my own August ๐ . I found that this method made the in-game atmosphere feel more authentic. It’s why I felt so sad when Boku’s father came to get us on August 31st ๐ญ.
While trying to compose myself, I wrote these words, along with the ones for a future book. There’s no rush to finish this personal project, though, because I’m intentionally “playing the calm”.
Playing the Calm 