Developer: Digital Happiness
Publisher: SOFT SOURCE
Genre: Adventure, horror,
Price: $29.99
Release Date: January 16, 2025
Where to buy: Switch, PSN
The horror genre has always been a fertile ground for experimentation, with developers constantly seeking new ways to unsettle and terrify players. In this landscape, the DreadOut series emerged, drawing inspiration from Indonesian folklore and blending it with gameplay reminiscent of classic survival horror titles like Fatal Frame. Now, with the release of the DreadOut Remastered Collection on Switch and PSN, a new audience can experience this unique take on horror. This essay will delve into the gameplay mechanics and overall quality of this collection, examining whether it successfully delivers both scares and a worthwhile experience.
At its core, DreadOut’s gameplay revolves around exploration, puzzle-solving, and survival. Players control Linda Meilinda, a high school student trapped in a haunted environment. Unlike many modern horror games that emphasize combat, DreadOut focuses on evasion and using Linda’s smartphone as a defensive tool. This mechanic is heavily inspired by Fatal Frame’s Camera Obscura, with Linda using her phone’s camera to exorcise ghosts and reveal hidden clues. This “digital exorcism” adds a unique layer to the gameplay, forcing players to carefully frame their shots and manage their phone’s battery.
The Remastered Collection includes both the original DreadOut and its DLC, “Keepers of the Dark.” The first game introduces the core mechanics and sets the stage with its eerie atmosphere and unsettling creature design. The DLC expands upon this, offering new challenges and further delving into Indonesian mythology. While the core gameplay loop remains consistent, the variety of ghostly encounters and environmental puzzles keeps the experience engaging.
However, the DreadOut Remastered Collection is not without its flaws. One of the most common criticisms of the series is its somewhat clunky controls and occasionally awkward movement. This can lead to frustrating moments, especially during tense encounters with aggressive spirits. Additionally, while the game’s visuals have been enhanced for this release, they still show their age. Character models and environments can appear dated, which can detract from the overall immersion.
Despite these shortcomings, the DreadOut Remastered Collection offers a unique and genuinely unsettling horror experience. The reliance on Indonesian folklore provides a fresh perspective compared to the more common Western or Japanese horror tropes. The game’s atmosphere is thick with dread, and the ghostly encounters are often genuinely frightening. The “digital exorcism” mechanic, while not perfect, adds a distinct flavor to the gameplay that sets it apart from other horror titles.
In conclusion, the DreadOut Remastered Collection is a mixed bag. It offers a unique and atmospheric horror experience with its blend of Indonesian folklore and Fatal Frame-inspired gameplay. However, it is held back by some technical limitations and dated visuals. Despite these flaws, the collection is still worth considering for horror fans looking for something different. It provides a chilling glimpse into Indonesian mythology and offers a distinct take on survival horror that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
