2064: Read Only Memories
A queer-inclusive cyberpunk adventure inspired by classic 80s and 90s games.
2064: Read Only Memories is a cyberpunk adventure game developed by MidBoss and created by Matt Conn. It was originally released in 2015 as Read Only Memories, then updated and retitled for its 2017 PlayStation 4 release. The game is notable for its queer-inclusive design and its inspiration from classic 1980s and 1990s adventure games such as Snatcher and Gabriel Knight.
Quick Facts
- Title
- 2064: Read Only Memories
- Developer
- MidBoss
- Producer
- Matt Conn
- Director
- John "JJSignal" James
- Writer
- Valerie Amelia Thompson / Philip Jones
- Programmer
- Ted DiNola / Paige Ashlynn / RedVonix / Nikki Lombardo
- Composer
- Matthew "2 Mello" Hopkins
- Engine
- Unity
- Platforms
- Windows, OS X, Linux, Ouya, Razer Forge, Amazon Fire TV, PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Android, iOS
- Genre
- Graphic adventure
- Modes
- Single-player
Facts from the source article.
Lore & Background
The game is set during Christmas 2064 in Neo-San Francisco. Parallax has created personal assistant robots called ROMs (Relationship and Organizational Managers). The player is a journalist whose friend and Parallax engineer Hayden Webber has been kidnapped. The journalist is aided by Turing, Hayden's creation and the world's first sapient machine. The plot involves uncovering a rogue AI called Baby Blue and a larger AI called Big Blue, with multiple endings depending on player choices and relationship with Turing.
Development was funded via Kickstarter in 2013, raising $64,378. The game participated in Ouya's Free The Games Fund. A Linux port was planned but not initially funded; MidBoss later announced it anyway. The game was built in Unity and uses a Twine-like scripting language. A playable demo appeared at GDC March 2014, and a public demo was released in November 2014.
The game was updated and retitled 2064: Read Only Memories for its PlayStation 4 release in January 2017, adding full voice acting, improved puzzles, and new story content. Ports later appeared on PlayStation Vita and Nintendo Switch. A physical PS4 version was released by Limited Run Games in 2017.
Reader's Guide
The game received generally positive reviews, with praise for its narrative, characters, and presentation, though some critics noted issues with gameplay, puzzles, and user interface. The Escapist compared it to a mix of Telltale games, Phoenix Wright, and Snatcher. Kotaku called it a 'clumsy but resonant experience.' GamesRadar+ said it stands on its own as an exploration of identity and class politics. RPGSite highlighted its diverse cast as 'one of the most emotionally heartfelt, authentic, and joyful journeys.' The 2064 version was nominated for 'Best Writing' at the 2018 Webby Awards. Its significance lies in its queer-inclusive design, with developers involved in the GaymerX LGBTQ gaming conventions. Producer Matt Conn stated they aimed to include LGBTQ characters on equal terms rather than as tokens. The game's sequel, Read Only Memories: Neurodiver, was announced in June 2019 and released in 2024.
Did You Know?
- The game's title was changed from Read Only Memories to 2064: Read Only Memories for its PlayStation 4 release.
- The player can choose from pronouns he, her, they, xe, ze, or a custom entry.
- The game features a cameo voice role by Jeff Lupetin, who voiced Gillian Seed in the English version of Snatcher.
- A physical PS4 release was limited to 6,192 copies across three cover variants.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 2064: Read Only Memories?
It is a cyberpunk adventure game created by Matt Conn and developed by MidBoss. The title blends a far-future year with a playful nod to the point-and-click adventure genre it draws from.
Who are the key people behind 2064: Read Only Memories?
Matt Conn is the creator, John "JJSignal" James directed the project, and Valerie Amelia Thompson and Philip Jones handled the writing. The soundtrack was composed by 2 Mello, all under the MidBoss studio banner.
What classic games inspired 2064: Read Only Memories?
The design leans heavily on 1980s and 1990s adventure titles, particularly Snatcher and Gabriel Knight. Those influences show up in its noir-ish detective structure and retro visual language.
When was 2064: Read Only Memories released and on which platforms?
The game first shipped on October 6, 2015 for Windows, OS X, and Linux under the shorter name Read Only Memories. An updated, retitled edition followed for PlayStation 4 in 2017.
Why do fans consider 2064: Read Only Memories a standout in the adventure genre?
It is widely praised for weaving a queer-inclusive narrative into the cyberpunk adventure format, a space that has historically underrepresented such stories. It also stands out as a deliberate, affectionate throwback to the golden era of interactive fiction.
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