Heartworm
" Atmospheric action-adventure with unique camera combat and PSX-era horror vibe, but short length "
Heartworm Review
Heartworm is a survival horror game that masterfully channels the spirit of classic PSX-era titles like Silent Hill and Resident Evil, blending nostalgia with modern touches. It features atmospheric, surreal environments with a pre-rendered aesthetic, dynamic fixed camera angles, and tank controls as an option, allowing players to customize their experience. The gameplay combines exploration, puzzle-solving, and a unique camera-based combat system reminiscent of Fatal Frame. The story is a personal, emotional journey through trauma, loss, and mental health themes, supported by strong writing and compelling voice acting.
Players praise the haunting soundtrack and sound design, the well-crafted level design, and the game's dedication to recreating the retro survival horror vibe. However, some note the game is relatively short, with a somewhat easy difficulty curve and occasional bugs. Despite minor criticisms, Heartworm is widely regarded as a polished, thoughtful homage that offers a fresh yet familiar experience for fans of the genre.
Highlights
Players especially appreciate the game's authentic PSX survival horror aesthetic, with environments that look pre-rendered yet are fully 3D and react to lighting.
The soundtrack and sound design receive frequent praise for enhancing the eerie atmosphere and mood.
The storyline is recognized as emotionally resonant, exploring themes of grief and trauma with subtlety.
Gameplay mechanics like exploration, puzzle-solving, and the camera-based combat system are lauded for being nostalgic yet innovative.
Options such as tank controls, modern controls, and accessibility settings allow players to tailor their experience.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include the game's short duration and relatively easy difficulty, with plentiful resources and simple puzzles reducing challenge.
Some players found the camera mechanics underutilized and occasional control bugs, especially with modern controls.
The story, while emotional, is sometimes seen as underdeveloped or lacking depth, with the protagonist's characterization receiving mixed reactions.
Visual effects and static enemies caused discomfort or eye strain for some.
Minor bugs and occasional frame rate drops on certain platforms were reported but did not majorly impact playability.
Pros
- • Authentic PSX-era survival horror aesthetic with well-designed environments.
- • Haunting and memorable soundtrack that enhances atmosphere.
- • Engaging storyline exploring grief and mental health themes.
- • Flexible control schemes including tank and modern controls.
- • Unique camera-based combat system inspired by Fatal Frame.
- • Well-crafted puzzles that are intuitive and rewarding.
- • Strong voice acting that adds emotional depth.
Cons
- • Relatively short game length limits narrative and character development.
- • Combat can feel simplistic and sometimes frustrating due to controls.
- • Some puzzles and enemies lack challenge, leading to easy gameplay.
- • Story pacing and writing occasionally feel undercooked or bland.
- • Visual effects can cause eye strain for sensitive players.
- • Camera mechanics not fully utilized in gameplay.
- • Minor bugs and frame rate drops reported on some devices.
Rating Criteria
Pass through the threshold and enter a world born of memories. Defend yourself with a camera while solving death’s mysteries in a reverent evolution of 90’s survival horror, integrating both fixed cameras and over the shoulder perspectives.