Five Nights at Freddy's: Secret of the Mimic
" Atmospheric indie horror with immersive lore and tension but plagued by bugs and crashes "
Five Nights at Freddy's: Secret of the Mimic Review
Five Nights at Freddy's: Secret of the Mimic received mixed feedback from its player base, with a majority appreciating its lore and atmosphere but many frustrated by technical issues and gameplay design. The game presents a narrative-driven stealth horror experience set in a 1970s facility, revolving around exploring, puzzle-solving, and avoiding a rogue AI called the Mimic. Players praised the game's unique setting, engaging lore elements, and some well-crafted chase sequences, which brought back a sense of tension reminiscent of earlier franchise entries.
However, the game suffers from significant optimization problems, including frequent crashes, stuttering, and a restrictive 30/60 FPS cap. Controls, especially the hand interaction mechanics, were considered clunky and unintuitive, likely due to the game being originally designed for VR. The stealth gameplay was often described as repetitive and unbalanced, with AI inconsistencies and frustrating checkpoint systems. Additionally, many players found the puzzles tedious and the overall duration short relative to the price point, leading to dissatisfaction among fans expecting a fuller experience.
Highlights
Players lauded the game's atmospheric 90s aesthetic and detailed environments, which diverge from typical FNAF visuals. The storyline was appreciated for expanding the lore, especially for fans familiar with the books, and multiple endings added replay value. The voice acting and audio design were generally well-received, enhancing immersion. Gameplay mechanics involving manual mouse motions to simulate physical interactions were noted as innovative, and the stealth and chase sequences, while divisive, provided moments of genuine tension. The game’s graphics were regarded as a step forward in character and mascot design, creating a visually engaging world.
Criticisms
Common criticisms centered on poor optimization, including frequent crashes, stuttering, and a locked frame rate, even on high-end PCs. Many players encountered game-breaking bugs such as softlocks, missing objects, and progression blockers, with no manual save system exacerbating frustration. The gameplay was often described as repetitive, with simplistic puzzles and stealth mechanics that lacked depth or challenge. The AI was inconsistent, sometimes easily circumvented or glitching. Several reviewers pointed out the game felt rushed, with incomplete textures, audio dropouts, and a short overall length that did not justify the full price. The heavy VR design influence without VR support at launch was also a major point of contention.
Pros
- • Engaging lore expands the FNAF universe with multiple endings and secrets.
- • Atmospheric 90s aesthetic and detailed environments create immersive settings.
- • Innovative hand interaction mechanics simulate physical tasks with mouse.
- • Well-animated mascot characters add visual appeal and uniqueness.
- • Voice acting and audio design enhance tension and immersion effectively.
- • Stealth and chase sequences provide moments of genuine horror and suspense.
- • Puzzle variety, though simple, adds light gameplay diversity.
Cons
- • Frequent crashes, stuttering, and locked 30/60 FPS cap frustrate players.
- • Game-breaking bugs cause softlocks and lost progress with no manual saves.
- • Clunky controls and interaction mechanics hinder smooth gameplay experience.
- • Stealth AI is inconsistent, often easy to exploit or glitch.
- • Repetitive gameplay with simplistic puzzles and limited enemy variety.
- • Short game length does not justify the high price point.
- • Heavy VR design influence without VR support leads to awkward flat play.
Rating Criteria
About This Game
Enter the abandoned workshop of Murray’s Costume Manor and unravel the mystery left behind by the reclusive inventor, Edwin Murray. In Five Nights at Freddy’s: Secret of the Mimic, you’ll step into a world where every dark corner holds a secret and every flicker of light hints at an ever-present threat. The Mimic, a prototype endoskeleton, can adapt to any costume and become any character, including what you fear most. Armed with only your wits, a few gadgets, and a heavily redacted corporate briefing, you’ll attempt to retrieve Fazbear’s prized prototype technology while grappling with cryptic clues and a relentless shadow determined to dispatch all unwanted company.
Prepare for heart-pounding thrills as you explore the labyrinth of the deserted Costume Manor, discovering remnants of Edwin’s unfinished work and eluding the monster he’s created. Experience Five Nights at Freddy’s: Secret of the Mimic, and survive the mystery and madness. Five Night’s at Freddy’s: Secret of the Mimic will be available on June 13th, 2025.
Disclaimer: Fazbear Entertainment is not responsible for whatever you awaken in the dark.
Enter the abandoned workshop of Murray’s Costume Manor and unravel the mystery left behind by the reclusive inventor. In Five Nights at Freddy’s: Secret of the Mimic, you’ll step into a world where every dark corner holds a secret and every flicker of light hints at an ever-present threat.