Looking Up I See Only A Ceiling
" Authentic psychological indie adventure with unique art and mood but short base game "
Looking Up I See Only A Ceiling Review
Looking Up I See Only A Ceiling is a short, atmospheric point-and-click visual novel that deeply explores themes of social anxiety, stress, and academic burnout. Players follow a medical student’s claustrophobic day, where mundane routines slowly unravel into psychological horror and surreal experiences. The game’s minimalist interaction, painterly art style, and melancholic soundtrack effectively convey the protagonist’s emotional state, immersing players in a raw depiction of mental health struggles.
The base game is brief, often completed within two hours, but the DLC "Relapse" significantly expands the story, adding depth, new endings, and more engaging gameplay elements. While the DLC is considered essential for the full experience, some players felt it should have been included with the main game. Overall, the game resonates strongly with those familiar with anxiety and perfectionism, offering a unique, introspective narrative that is both haunting and relatable. Its low price point and impactful message have earned it high recommendations despite minor flaws.
Highlights
Players praise the game’s emotional storytelling and its authentic portrayal of anxiety and stress. The hand-drawn, painterly art style and melancholic soundtrack create a powerful, immersive atmosphere. The point-and-click mechanics are simple yet effective, emphasizing exploration and reflection over complexity. The DLC "Relapse" is often highlighted as a valuable extension that deepens the narrative and gameplay. Many find the multiple endings and symbolic visuals thought-provoking, making the experience memorable and meaningful for those interested in psychological themes.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include the game’s short length and the feeling that the DLC should have been part of the base game. Some players found the English translation to have grammar issues and typos. The vertical, mobile-style screen ratio leaves much unused space on PC, which some found awkward. A few noted that the story and visuals occasionally over-explain symbolism, which can feel slightly patronizing. Achievement hunting, especially in the DLC, was described as tedious by some. Additionally, a small number of players experienced minor bugs and found some puzzles frustrating or unclear.
Pros
- • Authentic and relatable depiction of social anxiety and academic stress.
- • Beautiful, unique hand-drawn art style with a painterly aesthetic.
- • Melancholic and fitting soundtrack that enhances the atmosphere.
- • Simple, intuitive point-and-click gameplay focusing on exploration.
- • DLC significantly expands story and gameplay, adding value.
- • Multiple endings offer varied narrative perspectives and replayability.
- • Quiet, introspective mood creates a powerful emotional impact.
Cons
- • Base game is very short, feeling incomplete without the DLC.
- • DLC required for full experience but sold separately, which frustrates some.
- • Mobile-oriented vertical screen ratio wastes space on PC.
- • English translation contains grammar errors and typos.
- • Some puzzles and achievements in DLC are tedious or frustrating.
- • Occasional over-explanation of visual symbolism can feel condescending.
- • Minor bugs reported, including a frustrating kitchen puzzle.
Rating Criteria
A short psychological adventure about a stressed girl who wants to explore her ceiling.