Dollmare

Dollmare is a compact yet engaging indie horror game that revolves around repairing haunted dolls and uncovering two different endings. Players appreciate its clever, macabre atmosphere and the subtle changes in gameplay and environment that keep the experience fresh on subsequent playthroughs. The game’s short length, around 3 to 5 hours for both endings, makes it accessible and suitable for casual gamers. It offers a spooky but not overly frightening experience, avoiding jump scares while maintaining suspense.

The price point is widely praised for being affordable and delivering good value. Many players enjoy the achievement hunting and the game's smooth performance with minimal bugs. However, some report crashes when attempting to unlock the second ending, and a few criticize the AI-generated voices, which detract from immersion. Overall, Dollmare is considered a fun, atmospheric horror game with a unique premise and a well-executed main mechanic.

Highlights

Players particularly praise the game's atmospheric and creepy yet subtle horror elements, avoiding jump scares while building suspense. The two distinct endings and dynamic day-to-day changes in the environment keep the gameplay engaging. The storyline is appreciated for its originality and plot twists involving haunted dolls. The game is also noted for its smooth performance and lack of bugs, enhancing the overall experience. Additionally, the affordable price combined with quality content is a frequent highlight.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include occasional game crashes, especially when pursuing the second ending, which disrupts gameplay. Some players find certain puzzles or objectives, like using the crowbar, unintuitive or requiring external help. The AI-generated voices have been negatively received for reducing emotional impact and immersion. A few users mention the game could benefit from improved save mechanics and longer day durations. Lastly, the absence of credits was noted as a disappointing oversight.