Sorry We’re Closed review

Sorry We’re Closed review

As a seasoned gamer with over two decades of gaming under my belt, I must say that Sorry We’re Closed has managed to carve out its own unique space within the horror genre. With a nostalgic nod to classics like Silent Hill and a splash of vibrant, macabre charm, it’s a game that feels both familiar and fresh at the same time.


Apologies for the inconvenience, but we’re currently out of operation. The game in question revolves around a closed establishment and supernatural events. You assume the role of Michelle, who is running against time as an ominous figure called The Duchess threatens to take her. Although it falls under the horror genre, it carries elements reminiscent of Persona that offer a sense of comfort. It’s a blend of neon aesthetics and dark themes, creating its unique brand of fear while honoring classic survival horror games like Silent Hill. While it might not appeal to everyone, it’s undeniable that the developers have aimed to innovate within the realm of this traditional gameplay style.

The vintage camera within Sorry We’re Closed evokes a sense of nostalgia and never disrupts your experience with it. Occasionally, this method doesn’t succeed, but transitioning between scenes is done in such a way that recalls exactly why it was so suspenseful when experiencing classic horror games on the original PlayStation. Although the graphics aren’t as sharp or detailed as modern titles, the combination of vividness and grisly scenes is effective, and the fashionable presentation of cutscenes and investigating an alternate London is consistently captivating. However, I found it somewhat aggravating to move from one location to another without clear guidance. The objectives weren’t always obvious so I often didn’t know where I needed to go next.

Sorry We’re Closed review

In this game, you’ll encounter the classic aspects found in survival horror, such as managing your inventory and deciding what to collect and when. Fortunately, it doesn’t often become a burden, but it does require strategic thinking. The game retains that familiar feeling of movement, allowing you to run and make quick turns, just like the old days. However, two unique features set it apart from its predecessors. One of these innovations is known as the Third Eye, which allows you to perceive a brief section of the demonic world alongside reality. This ability assists in solving puzzles, bringing certain characters into existence, and discovering alternative paths through various areas.

With Third Eye activated, it’ll not only assist in identifying various adversaries but also aid in their elimination. If a creature ventures into your vicinity, a heart symbol will manifest on their body. Smaller foes possess just one heart; upon firing, they’ll be vanquished instantly. Larger opponents, however, carry multiple hearts. Successfully striking them in sequence won’t only obliterate them but also charge a unique gauge. This gauge enables you to deploy a powerful weapon that can eliminate the majority of monsters with a single shot. Some bosses employ this tactic for their defeat, and maintaining composure during battle will make it simpler to vanquish them.

The thing is, if you miss one of the hearts in the combo chain, the gauge won’t fill up as quickly, and the enemy will likely attack you before you’ve finished the chain. Sorry We’re Closed adds an exciting approach to the combat in ways that aren’t typical of the genre, especially as when you aim, the camera switches to a first-person viewpoint. This increases the tension as you can’t move when switching to the view, meaning you have to choose between remaining focused and taking the shot, or cutting your losses and running away.

Sorry We’re Closed review

I adore the aesthetic of Sorry We’re Closed. While horrors are often dark and grimy, this goes for a much more vibrant approach. There’s so much colour in most areas, but there’s also times when it does remind you of the dingy environments found in Resident Evil. What makes it feel less like a horror at times is the subtle humour and well-written characters who are easy to like but also easy to feel uncomfortable talking to. You’re never sure who to trust, whether they’re an angel or a demon.

This game, titled “Sorry We’re Closed,” offers a chilling experience reminiscent of David Lynch’s Twin Peaks. While not strictly a horror game, it manages to create an unsettling and unpredictable atmosphere. The vintage aesthetic has been cleverly modernized with innovative concepts, which I found intriguing. One standout feature is the versatile Third Eye mechanic. Navigation can be tricky at times, and it’s not always clear what actions are required, but I appreciated the well-developed characters and compelling narrative. A unique aspect of this game is the ability to enhance items by discovering artifacts and selling them for currency. Though it wasn’t exactly what I anticipated, I’m pleased I had the opportunity to play it.

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2024-11-14 20:16