The game’s unique mechanics create a seamless blend of cinema and interactive gameplay. Rather than following a linear path, players explore hundreds of clips non-sequentially, rewinding, fast-forwarding, and jumping between scenes in search of meaning. This non-linear, clip-oriented system immerses players in the experience of film editing, where every artifact, glance, or subtle detail could unlock a new layer of the story. The game is flexible in its structure, allowing players to approach it either as a ten-hour, fragmented cinematic journey or as a true crime-style investigation, scanning every moment for hidden meanings and clues. Through this flexibility, Immortality offers players the chance to experience the content in a deeply personal way, encouraging them to piece together the story in a manner unique to their playthrough.

Immortality is innovative not only in its gameplay but also in its thematic depth. By using film as a narrative framework, Barlow tackles topics seldom explored in gaming, such as the exploitation of women in Hollywood and the oppressive forces in the film industry that span generations. The blending of film and game elements creates an experience that challenges traditional genre distinctions, placing Immortality in a category all its own—somewhere between cinema, gaming, and interactive fiction. The game’s immersive approach to narrative allows players to see behind the glamorous Hollywood facade, unveiling the control and manipulation that female actors often face. This focus on feminist themes within a gaming framework is groundbreaking, making Immortality a powerful example of how video games can engage with complex social issues.

The response to Immortality has been overwhelmingly positive, with critics and players praising its originality, narrative complexity, and emotional depth. Reviewers have lauded the game’s innovative use of film clips and nonlinear storytelling, which brings a new level of immersion and interaction to the gaming world. By combining cinematic techniques with investigative gameplay, Immortality has captivated audiences and solidified Barlow’s reputation as a pioneer in narrative-driven games. Its success highlights the potential for video games to be used as a medium for sophisticated storytelling and social commentary, setting a new standard for how interactive experiences can be used to examine real-world issues in ways that are both engaging and thought-provoking.