Little Lighthouse of Horror Review

Little Lighthouse of Horror

Release: January 28, 2025
Publisher: Codiwans
Developer: Codiwans
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PEGI:
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Little Lighthouse of Horror isn’t your typical jump-scare horror game. Instead, it offers a slow burn, a creeping dread that seeps into your bones as you manage the dwindling resources of a lonely lighthouse keeper. Inspired by the Flannan Isles mystery, the game excels at creating a thick, oppressive atmosphere that clings to you long after you’ve closed the game.

You play as Lawrence, a man tasked with maintaining the light in a remote lighthouse. The core gameplay loop revolves around resource management: keeping the lamp fueled, food stocked, and the structure maintained. However, this isn’t just a survival simulator. The true horror lies in the psychological toll of isolation, the strange occurrences, and the growing sense that something is deeply wrong.

What Makes it Work:

• Atmosphere: Little Lighthouse of Horror nails the atmosphere. The pixel art, while simple, is effective in creating a desolate and unsettling environment. The sound design is crucial here, with the creaking of the lighthouse, the howling wind, and the subtle, unnerving sounds that hint at something unseen. It’s a masterclass in building tension.
• Psychological Horror: The game doesn’t rely on cheap jump scares. Instead, it focuses on the gradual descent into madness. As Lawrence’s sanity deteriorates, the player experiences his paranoia, his hallucinations, and his growing desperation. This psychological approach is far more effective than any monster could be.
• Resource Management with a Twist: Managing resources isn’t just about survival; it’s intrinsically linked to Lawrence’s sanity. Neglecting the lighthouse, running out of supplies, or failing to address strange occurrences directly impacts his mental state, leading to different outcomes and endings.
• Multiple Endings: The game offers multiple endings based on your choices and how well you manage both the lighthouse and Lawrence’s sanity. This adds replayability and encourages you to explore different paths and unravel the mysteries of the lighthouse.

Where it Falls Short:

• Pacing: The slow burn approach, while effective for building atmosphere, might not appeal to everyone. The game can be slow at times, and some players might find it lacking in immediate action.
• Limited Scope: The game world is confined to the lighthouse and its immediate surroundings. While this reinforces the feeling of isolation, some players might find it restrictive.
• Clunky UI: The UI, while functional, could be more intuitive. Managing resources can sometimes feel a bit cumbersome.

Overall:

Little Lighthouse of Horror is a compelling and unsettling experience. It’s not a game for those looking for constant action or jump scares. Instead, it offers a chilling exploration of isolation, madness, and the unknown. Its atmospheric presentation, coupled with its focus on psychological horror and resource management, makes it a must-play for fans of the genre. While it has some minor flaws, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.

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