Atuel is an experimental documentary game, developed by ex studio Matajuegos, now officially available on Android via Google Play, offering players a poetic and immersive journey through the Atuel River in Argentina. Originally released on itch.io in 2022, the game has now reached a broader mobile audience, blending interactive storytelling, environmental education, and surrealist visuals into a unique experience.
Named after the real-life river that flows through Mendoza and La Pampa, Atuel invites players to explore the region’s ecosystem by shapeshifting into animals, gliding over landscapes, and even becoming part of the river itself. The game features first-person perspectives, pastel dreamscapes, and real-life testimonies from locals and experts, offering insight into the cultural and ecological significance of the Atuel River.
Unlike traditional games, Atuel is more of an interactive documentary than a challenge-based experience. It aims to raise awareness about climate change and the fragile relationship between humans and nature, using Spanish voiceovers and subtitles in nine languages to reach a global audience. The atmospheric soundtrack, composed by Makunouchi Bento, enhances the meditative tone of the journey.
The game is free-to-play and also available on itch.io, making it accessible to players interested in eco-conscious storytelling and experimental game design. While it may not appeal to fans of fast-paced action, Atuel offers a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant experience that encourages reflection on the natural world. The game is also available on Steam.
