Atuel: Climate Crisis Game Arrives on Android

Independent Argentine studio Matajuegos has released its surreal documentary game, Atuel, on Android and PC via Steam. Launched initially on itch.io in September 2022, Atuel gained attention for its documentary style, experimental mechanics, and captivating visuals.

The title has already won several honors, including the Innovation in Experience Design Award at IndieCade 2022. It has also been showcased globally at festivals and art venues—from the Marché du Film in Cannes to the Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington, D.C.

What is Atuel About?

Atuel delves into the relationship between people and the ecosystem of western Argentina—specifically the Cuyo desert region. It interweaves genuine testimonies with fluid, dream-inspired gameplay.

Players traverse sprawling surreal landscapes, echoing the real geography of the Atuel River Valley and Cuyo desert. You inhabit this world, transforming into creatures, elements of nature, and even the river itself.

As you journey, voices of historians, biologists, geologists, and residents offer insight into the region’s past, present, and future. The story reflects on the global climate crisis and humanity’s bond with land and water. Watch the game in action below.

Here’s an interesting detail: the Atuel River begins high in the Andes, at glacial Atuel Lake. As Mendoza’s longest river, it has carved the impressive Atuel Canyon, a narrow gorge in Valle Grande—this majestic landscape deeply influenced the game.

Now Available

The game was co-developed with international filmmakers from The 12.01 Project. Lead artist and developer Santiago Franzani describes it as a project intended to evoke a dream, not a typical documentary.

Instead of strict realism, Atuel offers a poetic, emotional space where tales unfold through movement, form, and audio. You’ll experience a kaleidoscopic story of the fragile, intimate bond that connects humans and nature.

Atuel is free to play and includes full controller support. Download it now on Google Play Store.

You may also enjoy our coverage of Disney Speedstorm Season 14.