Ther Pawn Shop Dream
As someone who grew up watching “Pawn Stars” on the History Channel, I won’t hide that I
never imagined what it would be like to run a pawn shop. Finally, I had the opportunity.
A quirky second-hand shop simulator set in a dystopian future, No Umbrellas Allowed,
arrived on the Nintendo Switch courtesy of developer Hoochoo Games and publisher
Digerati. Originally launched for PC on Steam in September of 2021, the game garnered a
lukewarm reception from a niche audience. This port to the Switch retains the same
thought-provoking gameplay, but with a few minor drawbacks that might make the PC
version a more polished experience. But first some background.
Become the “Dystopian Pawn Stars”
“No Umbrellas Allowed” takes you on a rainy journey to Ajik City, a dystopian year 2080
metropolis shrouded in mystery. Stepping into the shoes of an amnesiac protagonist who
just washed ashore, you inherit Darcy’s, a struggling second-hand shop. Here, amidst the
allure of forgotten treasures and the weight of a curious past, lies a unique pawn shop
simulator with a captivating narrative waiting to be unraveled. Your task is to assess their
worth using a variety of tools: a magnifying glass to inspect details, a historical database for
reference, and even a haptic feedback system to gauge the item’s authenticity. This
appraisal minigame adds a layer of puzzle-solving to the experience, rewarding players who
enjoy the thrill of uncovering hidden gems.
Negotiation plays a crucial role. Customers have varying expectations, and you must haggle
for the best deal. While there’s an optimal selling price, the game encourages flexibility. Do
you prioritize profit or building customer rapport by offering a fairer price? These choices
can affect your reputation, attracting customers or influencing the story.
Just Say No To Umbrellas
Umbrellas are strictly forbidden in Ajik City, confiscated by the authorities. Their
connection to the Fixerain, a mysterious weather phenomenon that seems to manipulate
memories, creates a sense of unease. The story unfolds organically as you interact with
customers and explore the city. Environmental details and cryptic conversations offer
breadcrumbs, piecing together the truth about the Fixerain, Ajik City’s past, and your
amnesia.
The core gameplay loop of appraising, buying, and selling items, while initially engaging, can
become repetitive in the later stages. The lack of additional shop management features,
like store upgrades or inventory management mini-games, means the experience plateaus
after a while. The mid-game can drag a bit with repetitive customer interactions. The story
picks up again towards the climax, offering a satisfying payoff for those who persevered.
Another point of contention is the translation quality, particularly on the Nintendo Switch
version. Dialogue can feel clunky at times, potentially hindering the emotional impact of
certain interactions.
In The End, a Very Good Deal
Despite these shortcomings, No Umbrellas Allowed offers a unique and engaging experience for players who enjoy narrative-driven sims with a dash of mystery. The atmosphere of the rain-drenched city, the intrigue surrounding the Fixerain, and the act of uncovering hidden value in everyday objects all contribute to a memorable journey.
