House of Ashes, the next game in Supermassive’s Dark Pictures franchise, just hosted a hands-off gameplay reveal and it seems as if the developers are focused as much on making up for missteps in previous entries as they are at telling a compelling story this time around. Given the content of the preview, I’d say they have a pretty good chance of accomplishing everything they’ve set out to do.
HIGH The classic ‘putting a broom in your pocket’ animation makes an appearance.
LOW Hint system, please.
WTF This interlude in the ancient Middle East is an odd diversion!
In the middle of the repetitive, largely incoherent story of People Can Fly’s Outriders, there is a moment that stood out to me.
HIGH Metal Gear Garbage.
LOW An inexcusable plot contrivance.
WTF So… does everyone know about the boulder punching?
HIGH A captivating opening movie exquisitely sets the mood.
LOW Every part of combat.
WTF Why does this town even have guards if they’re not going to kill the wolves that are chasing me around?
HIGH Finally defeating an enemy with one rifle shot.
LOW Getting randomly killed by enemies in mysterious ways.
WTF Wait… are those textures really hand-drawn? Wow!
HIGH Can be enjoyed ironically with friends.
LOW Lackluster presentation and choices.
WTF It’s a horror game that isn’t scary.
HIGH It nails that Lovecraft tone.
LOW An annoying chase sequence sucks the atmosphere out.
WTF The protagonist sounds like Paddington Bear at times.
HIGH The apartment building is genuinely spooky.
LOW Constantly backtracking is a nuisance.
WTF I bought a soda and I died.
HIGH The wrenching final battle.
LOW A puzzle built entirely around sound.
WTF The game’s cover reveals a huge mid-game twist.
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