Thanks to Ratalaika Games for the code for this game.

To describe Heal as depressing is an understatement. I was definitely not expecting a game about Alzheimer's to be fun and uplifting. But that is the focus of this game and that is what it is built up around.

Heal begins with you, the player, playing as an old man trying to solve various puzzles around his home. As far as I can tell, the old man lives alone and the setting is in the 1920s based on the surroundings and the watch puzzle which gives the date 1926.

Heal is a 3D touch and point adventure game. If you are playing on a PC, this would be a point and click game.The first puzzle has the player trying to open a document with 4 tabs on it. This was not immediately straightforward.  I finally found out that the tabs had to be completely black before going onto the next tab and then you are able to progress. 

Gameplay is simple; you are directed by the use of a pointer that is shaped like a hand and as you move from one puzzle to the next, progress is automatically saved. The controls are also straightforward. The control stick is used to point and A is the clicker. The other Nintendo Switch controls are not used at all.

There is no soundtrack to speak of; just sound effects. The opening area is called "Level 1- Desolation" and this is aptly named. All that plays is a dysphonic whistling sound that is very eerie. I suppose this is meant to display the feelings of hopelessness and despair of aging. This whistling sound is the main sound effect of the game, other than the noises the puzzles make. It truly does make you feel like you are caught in a hopeless environment with nothing to look forward to and no hope.

Heal just basically has you solving one puzzle and going to another as it progresses. None of the puzzles are very fun; in fact, almost all of them are tedious and had me tearing my hair out. The first one with the four tabs is not as easy as it sounds at all. The clicker sometimes doesn't work.

There are no moral warnings. There is no blood, violence, gore, language, occult references, or even crude humor. I just labeled this game is depressing because it really is, but I didn't think a game simulating Alzheimer's would exactly be a joyride.

Can or do I recommend Heal? Morally I can,yes. And the game play does look good. But it really is just a tedious and depressing puzzle game. At least for only 6.99, you aren't breaking the bank to try it.