At its core, Amnesia: The Bunker is a monster of the week horror game that dips into the Amnesia lore pool but still feels more than accessible to someone who hasn't played or watched the games before. While the controls are rigid, the game shines in its use of atmosphere and survival elements which many will find enjoyable. The Bunker will have you running for your life in a deadly game of cat and mouse, even if the ending feels a little lacklustre.
As asymmetrical horror games go, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is on the shoulders of genre mainstays and still, it's an absolute ripper. Players are thrown in the deep end, which while frustrating at first leads to later games where things begin to click and make a lot more sense. Seeing iconic locations from the films and racing to find the way out as a chainsaw swings behind you is quite the thrill but it's as thrilling as it is unforgiving. Perks will aid you but understanding the perk tree is a little convoluted. Playing as the Family is a cruel spin on the game too for those feeling a little more sadistic. I do worry about how much runway the game will have into the future with limited films, not to mention the fate of the developer's other asymmetrical horror game. Perhaps this could see the game moving into more original content based on the IP it lives and breathes. And who knows? Maybe you'll be lucky and escape first try.
It's hard not to love the adorable Dusty's capers in Justice Sucks. It's a fun arcade game that isn't afraid to tell a story as well. Each new area brings its own obstacles to face, but in the end, Dusty has all the tools to rise above the bad guys in this sentient robot action romp. Being so replayable works heavily in the game's favour. It's a great time for anyone keen to jump into a challenge-orientated arcade game packed full of chaos.
As far as time loop games go, The Forgotten City has the Midas touch. It’s easy to see just how much care has gone into the story of the game so that it not only pulls the player in, but dares them to test the possible realities. The characters all feel real and they drive the player to find the truth before the Golden Rule is broken and the loop must reset. The developers have been careful to create a narrative that, while repetitive in practice, still keeps the player engaged in the wider narrative of the world through exploration and discovery. Combat in the game remains questionable, but the gold bow is its saving grace. If you’re after a game that will keep you guessing as you move closer to the truth, then The Forgotten City is fittingly worthy of your gold.
The Outlast Trials is a brutally fresh twist of the knife for the franchise. Cooperative play meshes seamlessly with the horror experience, allowing players to squad up and take on brutal trials that are as horrifying as they are fun to survive together. Solo play is more trouble for the same reward, so it's a good thing the game includes a matchmaking system. With more content on the way, it's clear Murkoff has struck gold with this new take on a loved IP!