Crow Country

There are a few things you should know before buying this game (or just grab it if you're rich). First, the game uses tank controls, and they're definitely not for everyone, especially younger players who didn't grow up with them. Personally, I had no issues with it, and it's actually the reason I bought the game. Second, this is an old-school survival horror game, so expect lots of puzzle-solving. And by puzzle-solving, I mean wandering around completely lost because you have no clue where you're supposed to go next. The puzzles are all over the place; some are so easy they feel like the developers think you're just an idiot, while others are so absurdly difficult that the only way to solve them is to somehow read the developers' minds. Actually, the solutions for the puzzles are technically there, you'll find them in books, notes, and reports scattered throughout the game. BE PREPARED TO READ A LOT!!!! Well, the only problem for me is that the clues and the puzzles are occasionally NOT in the same place. For example, you'll read something in Area A, only to realize an hour later that it was the answer to a puzzle back in Area E. So be prepared to spend 20–30 minutes running around in circles wondering what you missed. It can get pretty frustrating. Actually, the game does give you 10 hints (as a fortune teller), but using them basically means saying goodbye to your S rank. Combat is pretty easy. Honestly, the regular enemies are more dangerous than the bosses. Resources are also generous, as long as you don't try to kill everything that moves, you'll have more than enough ammo and healing items for emergencies. However, just keep in mind that using more than 10 healing items is another easy way to kiss your S rank goodbye. The story is simple enough to follow. There's a little plot twist at the end, but it also creates a bunch of plot holes if you think about it for more than five minutes.

If you like Silent Hill and Signalis, this is for you. The puzzles were kinda easy, but that doesn't spoil the fun. I found the game's aim difficult, but it gives plenty of bullet, healing item etc. And using the hint machine when you can't find anything is a lifesaver.

This game is great. The stylisation is charming - I'd describe the experience as "cosy" horror. I think it actually made me jump only 3 or 4 times. Notably, I typically despise puzzle games, but I had a blast with all of them here. Besides a few very easy ones, they generally feel just difficult enough to still feel rewarding once solved. I actually had to write on paper twice. And if you struggle, there is a handy hint machine! (Though be warned, using it affects your rank at the end). It has replayability too; beating the game unlocks a neat additional find-em-all minigame (for cosmetics), and there are also rewards based on your final rank which you of course may want to try out. Big recommend if you are fan of the Resident Evil style of game. Engaging story too.