Dead Take

Dead Take is a short first-person psychological horror game by Surgent Studios that explores the dark side of Hollywood through the story of Chase Lowry, a struggling actor searching for his missing friend in a luxury mansion. The game excels in storytelling, bolstered by a star-studded cast including Neil Newbon and Ben Starr, who deliver compelling performances that elevate the experience. The narrative tackles heavy themes such as fame, exploitation, and mental health with subtlety, leaving much open to interpretation.

Gameplay is primarily exploration-based with simple puzzles and some FMV splicing mechanics, creating an atmospheric "walking simulator" feel. While the mansion's design and sound work build tension effectively, the horror relies heavily on jump scares, which many players found underwhelming. Puzzles are generally easy and linear, limiting challenge and exploration incentives. Overall, the game is praised for its immersive atmosphere, acting, and story, though some criticize its gameplay depth, puzzle design, and pacing.

Highlights

Players consistently praise the excellent acting performances by a talented cast, which deeply enrich the narrative. The game's atmosphere and sound design effectively create tension and paranoia within the mansion setting. The storyline is engaging and thought-provoking, exploring Hollywood's darker themes with nuance. The video splicing mechanic adds a unique puzzle element. Many appreciate the game's pacing and the way secrets are uncovered through exploration, making it compelling for fans of psychological horror and walking simulators.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include the overreliance on cheap jump scares that often fail to deliver genuine fright. The puzzles are too simple and linear, reducing challenge and exploration motivation. Some FMVs feel low-budget and occasionally disrupt immersion. The narrative, while interesting, can be convoluted or underdeveloped, with key emotional struggles only explained late rather than experienced. Technical issues such as lack of monitor selection and repetitive opening credits have also been noted. Finally, the mansion's modern, spacious design sometimes undermines the horror atmosphere.