Concrete Genie (2019) is a running and jumping game about a young boy, who is isolated and bullied, in this exploration platform game with a twist. Using motion controls and buttons you can draw beautiful graffiti on the buildings, which come to life. These become the habitat for the creatures you create, who help you progress through the town. It’s a sad and dark setting for a small boy, but with the magical drawings you help him find hope, solve puzzles and gain courage.

Concrete Genie includes two optional VR modes. VR Experience is a quest to unlock a mysterious power, follow a genie while painting in a new way. VR Free Paint invites you to explore the town and paint with unlocked brushes.

There’s a power in this game. It presents a difficult situation – bullying, sadness, loss – in a gentle way that creates space to be hopeful and allows the emotions to be engaged.

Our examiner, Andy Robertson, first checked Concrete Genie 3 years ago. It was re-examined by Tyler Brinkman and updated 10 weeks ago.