SEVERANCE
" Innovative asymmetrical co-op horror with strategic ghost mechanics but buggy early access "
SEVERANCE Review
SEVERANCE is an early access investigative horror game with a unique twist: players can take on the role of the ghost. Despite being in a very early stage of development, the game offers a refreshing and engaging gameplay experience combining ghost hunting and social deduction mechanics. Players appreciate the asymmetrical gameplay and the fun of scaring friends while gathering evidence.
The solo developer is highly praised for active communication, rapid bug fixes, and frequent updates that show a strong commitment to improving the game. Although the game has a number of bugs and some rough edges in UI, controls, and multiplayer stability, the community is generally patient and optimistic about its future. Players see huge potential in the concept and are excited to see new content, improved balance, and additional features in upcoming updates.
Highlights
Players particularly praise the innovative gameplay mechanic of playing as both ghost and investigator, which adds a fresh layer to the ghost hunting genre. The graphics and map details receive positive remarks for their quality, especially given the early access state. The jump scares and tense atmosphere are noted as effective and fun.
The developer's dedication to the community through constant updates, bug fixes, and responsiveness is highly appreciated. Many reviews highlight the game's potential to become a standout title in the co-op horror genre with more content and polish.
Criticisms
Common criticisms focus on the game's buggy and unfinished state, with issues in multiplayer connectivity, UI glitches, and voice chat problems. The ghost's abilities and energy mechanics feel unbalanced or slow, leading to downtime during matches. Some players find the evidence gathering too easy or random, reducing challenge and immersion. The lack of tutorials and unclear controls create a steep learning curve for new players. Additionally, some desire more interaction options, better ghost powers, and more maps or modes to increase replayability.
Pros
- • Innovative asymmetrical gameplay allowing players to be the ghost or investigator.
- • Developer is highly active and responsive to community feedback and bug reports.
- • Engaging jump scares and tense atmosphere enhance the horror experience.
- • Good graphics and detailed maps for an early access title.
- • Fun multiplayer experience with friends, creating memorable moments.
- • Unique concept that revitalizes the ghost hunting genre.
- • Frequent updates and patches improving gameplay steadily.
Cons
- • Game is very buggy with frequent crashes and glitches in early access.
- • Multiplayer lobbies and voice chat often unreliable or nonfunctional.
- • Controls and UI are not intuitive, lacking tutorials or explanations.
- • Ghost energy regeneration and abilities have long cooldowns and feel slow.
- • Evidence gathering can be random and sometimes too easy or confusing.
- • Lack of variety in maps and ghost types limits current replay value.
- • Some players experience frustrating latency and connection issues.
Rating Criteria
Severance is an online co-op horror game for 1-5 players. One becomes a ghost, the others are investigators. Stalk players, throw objects, lock doors, and drain their sanity and hunt them. Or choose to work as a team with paranormal tools to uncover the truth.