Desi Adda: Games of India

If you suggest that Desi Adda: Games of India sounds like a video game to spark cultural interest in the country, you wouldn't be too far off. The game was developed with the ambition to not only keep the Playstation 2 market afloat in India. However, it also showcases the unique physical games widespread in the subcontinent.

The whole concept is intriguing, yet most players outside of India may not get their heads around it. Still, Desi Adda: Games of India is a treasure for those cult game collectors. It's rare, it looks crazy, and probably one of the more esoteric pieces of media one could don in their library.

Lovingly Made in India, For India

We can tell you right away that Desi Adda: Games of India is one of the more fascinating concepts we've seen out there. Not because of the incorporation of indigenous games. More so that there is actually a narrative behind why you are competing. You, as the player, will return to your ancestral village to free it of an evil landlord, and there's only one way to do it. Beat his boys at traditional Indian games.

So here we are, stuck in a semi-open-world where you're tasked with beating these guys at games Westerners would have no idea how to address. Thankfully, the villagers educate you on how to play and tackle the village mob into submission. As you would expect - it plays like a bunch of outlandish mini-games.

It's difficult to describe the mechanics here as the games are still as non-sensical as they come. It's one of those things you just have to play to understand. While you won't really know how to take the game in, there is some analytical potential. We can make a few points about Desi Adda: Games of India that shed light on its critical perspective.

The visuals leave a lot to be desired, the narrative is comical, and the mechanics are simplistic. Without official recognition, it seems that Desi Adda: Games of India was developed for young gamers. But alas, it's a noble effort from a rare Indian developer who seeks to highlight the importance of gaming heritage.

Snakes and 'Addas

There are reasons to play and not play Desi Adda: Games of India. Why give it a go? It's simply one of the most unusual, unique games you would discover as a Westerner. It's a take on a game like Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games, exposing the culture and hidden games of the Indian subcontinent.

Pros:

• One of the most unique video games someone could play
• Learn about the fascinating traditional games of India
• A bizarre narrative that actually syncs mini-games well

Cons:

• Graphically not up to scratch with the hardware capabilities
• Control schemes feel unresponsive
• Games are simple - players will get bored quickly