Finnish Cottage 8 Impressions
Finnish Cottage 8 is a new kind of horror experience, created and distributed by Savukivi Games. It has the creepy environment of a lone Finnish cabin but coupled with the captivating gameplay of anomaly-hunter games. This is what distinguishes the game:
The central mechanism is to observe the anomalies in what seems to be a very mundane environment. The players have to observe the interior of the cottage carefully, notice changes or disturbance, and choose to leave through the front door (if all is fine) or the sauna door (if there is an anomaly). This incorporates some tension and strategy, where each choice may lead to victory or defeat.
The game shines in presentation. A quiet ambiance of Finnish radio talk playing in the background provides an added touch of realism and loneliness sensations. Graphics are dense and the anomalies transition from subtle to downright creepy, keeping the player tense without relying on cheap jump scares.
Pros
- Addictive Mechanics: Gameplay of searching for anomalies is difficult and rewarding.
- Atmospheric Design: The visuals and sound design work well together to really immerse players in a secluded Finnish cabin.
- Balanced Horror: The game teeters fairly well between scary and enjoyable, never leaning too far into gore or perpetual fear.
Cons
- Repetitive Elements: A few players will find the anomaly-hunting mechanic tedious in the long run.
- Limited Story: Although the environment is intriguing, the story could be fleshed out more to make the experience better overall.
Finnish Cottage 8 is a welcome relief in the horror gaming genre, providing a mix of suspense, strategy, and immersion. It is most appropriate for players who appreciate atmospheric games that test their observation skills. Although it might not appeal to players who like rich narratives or action games, it excels as a different and memorable experience.