how to fly a kite / cómo volar una cometa

how to fly a kite is a short interactive piece made in Ink, based on poem by Refaat Alareer. In it, you play as a spirit in a war-torn setting, crossing path with a young child. Being able to inhabit and move objects around you, you help the child to build a kite. While it is mechanically pretty repetitive, the poetic prose shines here. The way it contrasts the bleak environment, revealed bit by bit, with the child’s joy in gathering the materials and building the kite is both haunting and touching.

Ruber Eaglenest has made several games before with serious themes written in sensitive and poetic ways.

I found this game beautiful as I started it. The emphasis on colors and nature felt soothing, mixed with melancholy at being a ghost.

Interaction was confusing at times, perhaps to show what being a ghost would be like. You have three options most of the time, but they change as you select things, possibly in a pattern, possibly just based on how long you've waited. I never had too long to feel frustrated.

The ending was moving, and a reminder of (Spoiler - click to show)the horrors of war, and our responsibility to seek peace throughout the world. A very effective piece.