Title: World of Horror: A Terrifying Adventure That Reflects Our Modern Post-Covid Existence

Release date: October 19, 2023

Review by Pierre Herubel

In a world filled with countless video game options, World of Horror stands out as a truly unique and captivating experience. Developed by Polish dentist Pawel Kozminski, this game blends various genres to create a hauntingly relevant narrative. Set in a fictional Japanese town in 1984, World of Horror manages to capture the sense of alienation and anxiety that characterizes our current post-Covid existence.

World of Horror is a roguelike adventure that incorporates elements from RPGs, choose-your-own-adventure books, and hidden-object games. Its gameplay resembles an experimental Fighting Fantasy campaign, where players navigate through loosely connected mini-scenarios involving evil cults, deranged killers, and malevolent deities. With 24 different scenarios and multiple endings, each playthrough offers a unique experience.

To progress in the game, players must solve paranormal mysteries and reach the ominous lighthouse overlooking the town before an elder god awakens. The gameplay involves exploring different districts, engaging in combat or attribute checks during encounters, and deciding whether to pursue optional quests for valuable information. Recruiting allies, purchasing equipment, and learning spells are essential for surviving the impending darkness.

While World of Horror may seem like a static premise, it is brought to life by its striking presentation. Inspired by the art of manga legend Junji Ito, the game features masterfully drawn nightmarish creatures that symbolize contemporary anxieties and fears. The use of Microsoft’s ancient MS Paint graphics editor adds to the uncanny aura, complemented by a mesmerizing 1-bit palette.

However, the game’s true brilliance lies in its ability to subvert its own mechanics and constantly keep players disoriented. Each scenario introduces unique twists and challenges that break away from the standard gameplay. From navigating a forest taken over by cultists to guiding a needle into a friend’s eye using the mouse, World of Horror continuously surprises and tests players’ resolve.

Beneath the surface narrative choices and encounters, the game is filled with hidden interactions and secret connections waiting to be discovered. Opening a sigil-marked locker or persuading a classmate to share their secrets requires meticulous exploration, note-taking, and multiple playthroughs. World of Horror masterfully captures the confusion and uncertainty of facing unimaginable power, leaving players with endless questions even after 30 hours of gameplay.

Furthermore, the game effectively portrays a sense of isolation and mistrust, familiar feelings in our own contemporary world. Every sanctuary, including the protagonist’s own home, becomes besieged by the paranormal. The unique and haunting atmosphere created by World of Horror lingers in the mind long after the game is turned off.

In terms of accessibility, World of Horror offers mouse-only gameplay with optional controller support. Players can choose from various 1- and 2-bit palettes and can scale the size of the main window. Additionally, the game is playable in multiple languages, including French, German, and Japanese.

In conclusion, World of Horror is a truly remarkable game that successfully captures the essence of our modern post-Covid existence. Its innovative gameplay, striking visuals, and thought-provoking narrative make it a must-play for horror game enthusiasts. World of Horror leaves players with a genuine sense of relief, albeit temporary, as the call for a new game beckons and evil stirs once again.

For more thrills, check out our curated lists of the best horror games and best indie horror games you can play right now.