Nightsoil invites players into a peculiar slice of Victorian London, centered on the life of a gong farmer—a rather unfortunate vocation that involves collecting human waste. Set against the grim backdrop of the 1854 cholera epidemic, the game melds macabre history with a surprisingly introspective narrative. Our protagonist, nearing the end of his grueling career, works alongside his steadfast companion, a carthorse named Ol’ Boy. The setting is dark, steeped in the realities of the time, but there’s an odd charm about this earnest little adventure.
As you guide the gong farmer through his final shift, there’s a palpable sense of resignation mixed with nostalgia. The mechanics feel simple yet effective, primarily revolving around the grim task of waste collection, which you undertake after sunset to spare the sensitive souls of London’s wealthier citizens. It’s a task that bears a heavy weight of societal disdain, and yet, the dialogue and setting allow for moments that spark laughter amidst the absurdity.
While the humor doesn’t come from the game’s core premise, moments like tenderly patting Ol’ Boy provide unexpected levity. These brief instances of connection with the horse humanize the experience, offering a rare glimpse of warmth in a job that’s anything but endearing.
Despite my own struggle to find enjoyment in the core mechanics, the sheer strangeness of the game’s premise kept me engaged. It’s a stark reminder of how far we’ve come in gaming, from dumpster fires to virtual pet care. Nightsoil might not be for everyone, but it certainly carves out its own niche in the expansive tapestry of indie games, one oddly humorous moment at a time.
Source: rockpapershotgun.com
