11-11: Memories Retold review – a first world war game in which no shots are fired

PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC
Aardman's painterly primer illuminates the war with sensitivity and poignancy while putting story at the frontline

Creating a commemorative first world war game is bold, given the traditionally blunt approach to warfare that video games have, but boldness is to be expected of Wallace and Gromit creators Aardman Animations. The mission of 11-11: Memories Retold, released before the centenary of Armistice Day, is to provide insight into the war, particularly for younger generations.

Aardman Animations' first full-length game takes an impressionistic approach, with its visuals - which employ a "living painting" effect inspired by the likes of Turner and Monet - seeming to boil and flow. It is a clever ploy, and is in keeping with the game's contemplative tone. The game avoids explicit bloodshed, but still communicates the grim nature of trench life. It also heightens your attention to the story, which has a fable-like quality, as if vividly but distantly remembered.