Despelote is a semi-documentary game set in Ecuador during the country's 2002 World Cup qualifying run, capturing the essence of childhood.
Developed by Julián Cordero and Sebastian Valbuena, Despelote is based on Cordero's childhood memories in Quito, intertwining soccer and nostalgia.
The game offers an authentic and immersive experience, following the protagonist, Julián, as he navigates through family life and soccer fever in Quito.
With a unique control scheme for football gameplay, Despelote combines memories of matches with personal experiences in a captivating manner.
Set in late summer of 2001, the narrative revolves around Ecuador's football frenzy, blending real-life events with childhood adventures.
Despite its small scale, Despelote effectively recreates the atmosphere of 2001 Quito through visual and audio elements, transporting players to a different time and place.
Through cinematic editing and narrative jumps, the game explores themes of adolescence, creativity, and the connection between sport and society.
Despelote serves as a poignant reflection on childhood, encapsulating the joy of kicking a ball and the nostalgia associated with growing up.
It is not merely a game but a meditative experience that delves into personal memories, societal dynamics, and the universal essence of childhood.
Despelote excels in portraying the essence of being a kid, blending personal anecdotes with broader reflections on life, culture, and the passage of time.