The Cat Lady

A murky, dark, and mature story in the first few chapters. It's quite unusual to find a video game like this; it's common in film and literature, but something like this in this industry is rare, as if it truly deviates from the mainstream. The problem is that as the story progresses, it becomes very diffuse, lacking focus. It jumps around, and it's unclear what it's really trying to say; it clearly loses its initial way. It's no longer so much a story about depression but rather a kind of detective/conspiracy plot that isn't all that different or special. [b]6.5/10[/b]

The writing and production in these games are, like, strangely competent given what other 2010-era horror adventure games I've played. The story lines themselves are definitely not as subtle or as reserved as something like Silent Hill or Amnesia, but the place that this game coming from is so eager and sincere that I really can't help but respect and admire it as a whole. I've played games like these that only really come off as corny or immature, but The Cat Lady, for whatever reason, manage to transcend that in my eyes. Again, there's an emotional core to this game that I really appreciate; That sincere, earnest, 2010-era perspective that seems completely alien in today's harsher, more post-modern climate. There's even a scene where this 20-something-year-old goth woman introduces Susan, the game's middle-aged, bitter protagonist, to the concept of "Facebook" and "Internet Trolls" (I get a real kick out of seeing scenes like these). It's a game that 's completely and utterly honest and direct in what it's trying to be about. And, after playing and watching so... so many games and movies like Silent Hill 2 or Mulholland Drive -- works that are more allegorical than outwardly explicit in it's thematic explorations -- it's really fascinating to play something so unapologetic in what it's trying to communicate and explore with the player. I also want to praise the visual aesthetics and tone of the game as well. Everything is grimy, dirty, and made of stock textures and free sound effects. It's looks and plays like a deluxe version of those flash horror games you'd find online. I love everything that's going on here. It's about an old cat lady who goes out and kills psychopathic murderers and kidnappers to scream-o music. Isn't that just metal as hell? There's a sequence in this game where Susan plays on this piano set she owns, and it starts this really fun cutscene where all these cats jump from rooftop to rooftop to eat the meals she's prepared for them as this gaudy music starts to play in the background. It's probably one of the most memorable gaming moments that I've seen this year so far.

The Cat Lady is one of those games that stays with you long after the credits roll. The story is gripping, emotional, and incredibly well written. The voice acting brings every character to life, and the soundtrack perfectly complements the game’s dark and haunting atmosphere. I also loved the art style it’s simple, but full of personality and charm, giving the game a unique identity that stands out. My only criticisms are that the controls can feel awkward at times, and I wish there had been a way to pause the game whenever needed. Even with those minor frustrations, the overall experience is excellent. The combination of storytelling, atmosphere, music, and memorable characters makes this a truly special game. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys story driven psychological horror.