Tenebris Somnia is unusual, and I think that’s a good thing. In promotional materials, the most boasted accolade is that of the award-winning film crew behind the cutscenes. The team did a wonderful job of making the live-action segments feel cinematic and synchronizing them nicely with the actual gameplay sections, but on occasion the other parts of the game can feel neglected as a result. The game advertised was an incredibly scary experience, but I found the fear factor a little underwhelming. If you want a game that feels almost like a digital escape room with the way its puzzles are presented, Tenebris Somnia is the game for you. But if you’re looking for a genuinely horrifying experience, fumbling to survive while fighting something straight out of a nightmare, maybe give the game a pass or at least temper your expectations.
Wax Heads is the new game for those who enjoy cozy life/job simulator games, with heartwarming stories and stunning visuals woven throughout. I can truly see this game becoming a huge part of discussions around cute, stylized, relaxing video games, as well as a big name in the cozy gaming community. Patattie Games is definitely one to watch, and I can’t wait to see what dynamic duo Somerwolff and Tome create next.
Project Songbird is a game I think anyone in a creative industry should play, whether you’re a musician, a painter, a writer, a game developer, or someone in any field that is about making something. The game shares a prominent and important message about how many artists will push themselves so much farther than could ever be sustainable. This felt especially relevant in today’s world, where artists are being forced to compete with the existence of generative AI. In publishing Project Songbird, Rush and FYRE Games have made me want to create. Playing this game made me want to make the things that I want to make, and to not allow anyone or anything to make me resent doing the creative things I love.
Resident Evil 7: Biohazard is an incredibly well-rounded addition to the survival-horror genre. It successfully reimagines the Resident Evil franchise while helping series newcomers begin their RE journey without the intimidation of pre-established lore or the need to play older, fixed-camera games (such as the original Resident Evil, or Resident Evil 0). Nearly 10 years later, the game still holds up incredibly well.