The indie game Unpacking charmingly portrays life’s transitions through the simple act of unpacking boxes. Each level represents a different year and stage in the protagonist’s life. The 2012 level, however, stands out for its poignant representation of heartbreak and the challenge it presents to players. This guide will walk you through Unpacking‘s 2012 level, offering solutions and insights to help you complete it.
Unpacking’s 2012 level reflects a time of heartbreak and transition for the main character.
Understanding the Significance of Unpacked 2012
In 2012, the protagonist returns to her childhood bedroom after a relationship ends. This context is crucial for understanding the level’s puzzle. The placement of items reflects her emotional state, requiring players to not just unpack but to empathize with her experience. This seemingly simple task of organizing belongings becomes a powerful narrative tool, showcasing the emotional weight of the situation.
Unpacking the Bathroom in 2012
The 2012 level features two rooms: the bathroom and the bedroom. Let’s start with the bathroom. Here’s a breakdown of where to place the items:
The bathroom in Unpacking’s 2012 level.
- Countertop: Place the brush, moisturizer, perfume, toothbrush, toothpaste, and bathroom mug on the counter. The toothbrush and paste belong in the mug.
- Drawers: The brush can also go in a drawer, as can the clippers, flat iron, tweezers, and razor.
- Under the Sink: Store the makeup bag, medicines, first aid kit, and tampons under the sink. You can move the trashcan to the left of the sink to create more space. Alternatively, use the shelves.
- Shower Shelf: Open the shower and place the body wash, shampoo, and conditioner on the shelf inside.
- Shelves: Lip gloss, additional medicine, and pads can be placed on the shelves.
Unpacking the Bedroom in 2012
The bedroom is where the emotional core of the 2012 level resides. The items here are more personal and require careful placement:
The bedroom holds the key to understanding the protagonist’s emotional state in 2012.
- Shelf: Place the bug figurine on the shelf in front of the boombox.
- Desk: The d20, Dungeons and Dragons mini, MP3 player, drawing tablet, and laptop go on the desk. The eraser and pen cup also belong here.
- Bookshelf: Move the trophies and knickknacks to the top shelf to make room for the books.
- Corkboard: Hang the first two photos and other drawings on the corkboard. The third photo is a key item in this level – more on this later.
- Under the Bed: Store the workout weights and yoga mat under the bed.
- Sliding Shelves: Open the sliding doors under the stuffed frog to reveal a hiding spot for the markers. The 3DS games also go inside these shelves, along with the chicken and her chicks.
- Wall: Hang the diploma on the wall and the rolled-up poster (this earns you a sticker!).
- Bed: Place the stuffed pig and the hot water bottle on the bed.
- Between Desk and Shelves: The purse fits here, and the filing box can go under the desk.
- Shelves Above Desk: The ukulele must be placed on one of these shelves.
The Mystery of the Third Photo
The third photograph in the 2012 level presents a unique challenge. It depicts the protagonist with her ex-boyfriend. Don’t hang it on the corkboard! Instead, hide it in the sliding shelves under the stuffed frog.
The third photo presents a poignant puzzle within the 2012 level.
If you try to hang the photo, the protagonist will damage it, indicating her unresolved feelings. This subtle detail highlights the game’s brilliance in conveying narrative through gameplay mechanics. Hiding the photo allows players to participate in the protagonist’s coping mechanism, offering a powerful message about heartbreak and healing.
Successfully completing the 2012 level allows players to move on to the next chapter in the protagonist’s life.
Completing the 2012 level in Unpacking is more than just placing objects; it’s about understanding the emotional context and participating in a story of heartbreak and resilience. This guide provides the solutions, but the true reward lies in experiencing the narrative power of this unique indie game.
