Sorry We're Closed

There's just something so peculiarly captivating about slipping into the skin of someone who fights against the wind, and Sorry We're Closed does just that. This indie game wraps players in a narrative cocoon of survival horror, where every choice feels like a step toward either salvation or damnation. Set against the backdrop of a haunted London borough, this game brings back classic vibes from survival horror games with a modern twist.

A World Where Every Shadow Tells a Story

In Sorry We're Closed, you follow Michelle, a woman cursed by a demon with a peculiar desire for love. Her journey is not just about survival; it's about breaking free from a curse that's ticking away her remaining days. The game's setting is a character in itself – a busy yet eerie London neighborhood where every resident could either help you or lead you astray. This setup gives the game a rich, layered narrative, much like the beloved Silent Hill series, where the environment is as much your enemy as any creature you encounter.

The game plunges you into a world where angels and demons aren't just metaphors but very real entities you interact with. Michelle's encounters with these beings, combined with her quest to understand her curse, keep you on the edge of your seat. The narrative is crafted so that your choices genuinely matter, leading to multiple endings that beckon multiple playthroughs.

Gameplay That Feels Both Familiar and Fresh

Sorry We're Closed nails the nostalgia with its use of fixed camera angles, a hallmark of classic survival horror. However, it's not just about looking back; the game introduces first-person combat scenes that feel like stepping into an arcade game. You've got to be quick, precise, and smart with your resources, particularly with Michelle's unique Hellhound pistol.

The introduction of the "Third Eye" mechanic adds a magical layer to both combat and puzzle-solving. This ability allows Michelle to see between worlds, stun enemies, and find hidden paths or items. It's a refreshing change from the usual inventory management seen in similar games like Resident Evil, where the focus might be more on managing your gear than exploring metaphysical concepts.

Review: 8/10

One of the game's strengths is how it humanizes its horror. Each character you meet in Michelle's world isn't just a plot device but a person with their own struggles and stories. This human touch makes the choices you make feel heavier, knowing that they could alter not just your fate but others' as well.

Pros:

• The game's sound and visuals create a genuinely eerie atmosphere
• The Third Eye ability adds a unique twist to both combat and exploration
• With choices affecting outcomes, the game offers a rich storytelling experience

Cons:

• The fixed angles, while nostalgic, can sometimes hinder gameplay
• Despite strategy, combat might get monotonous for some
• Certain parts of the game can feel slow, possibly disrupting the overall experience