Javier Picazo Feliú |
Madrid (EFE).- Reanimal does not require deep dialogue, flashy cinematics or violence to instil fear; outstanding art direction, cooperative stealth mechanics and an oppressive atmosphere suffice. This game will be released on all consoles and is an evolution of the formula with which Sweden’s Tarsier Studios revolutionised the genre following the success of “Little Nightmares”.
This psychological horror game is full of anxiety and puzzles that must be solved quickly and skilfully, through a constant process of trial and error. On screen, two mysterious siblings must find a way to escape a nightmarish world alive.
Like other titles in the genre, such as Little Nightmares and Limbo, the game masterfully uses darkness, light, scares and child protagonists to give players the constant feeling that something is lurking around every corner. Something always giant and terrifying that is impossible to avoid.
Reanimal can be played perfectly well alone, as the other character is well managed by the game’s AI, but it is best enjoyed in co-op mode, either online or with a second controller. Collaboration is essential to advance, whether to reach an elevated area or activate a mechanism, uniting both players in the face of adversity and making them indispensable.
Facing fear in company
This new title adds some action to increase the pace, taking the mechanics of hiding, finding a key to continue, using a piece in a gear or escaping from a chase to their maximum expression.
The graphics are highly detailed with outstanding lighting and help create the atmosphere of an island full of surprises. There are forests, sewers, trains, water areas, dreamlike landscapes and terrifying surrealism.
The adventure takes about six hours to complete, and your descent into madness builds to a crescendo. Starting with discovery and mystery, it culminates in a wild and grotesque finale. The controls are typical of the genre: a button to light a match and save the darkness, or to run or jump. They are intuitive and suitable for everyone. Meanwhile, the music and sound effects are spot on, providing the perfect prelude to the most tense moments.
Unfortunately, ‘Reanimal’ feels very familiar, especially to those who have played similar games, as it replicates the atmosphere and mechanics of other titles from the same studio. This makes it seem like a release designed to extend a franchise that, despite being exceptional, has lost its appeal.
However, for those who have never played this genre before, this is one of those games that leaves a lasting impression. This is perhaps because it is full of memorable moments and the unique feeling of escaping a nightmare with the help of a partner.
