In the unpleasant city of Gravoy where the heavy darkness hangs, Saturnalia Dare to survive long enough to uncover the village’s hidden skeletons. Reminiscent of good old survival horror games from the ’90s, this artistic yet deeply disturbing indie horror will make your bones rattle after the credits hit.
Don’t let the game’s small settings fool you. Because that’s the heart of the title and it’s destiny. Lacking guidance, Saturnalia forces you to rely on your memory and a scanty in-game map board to navigate the maze-like passages. As nightmarish creatures hunt you down, exclusive items like disposable matches will not only heighten the tension, but will also test your wits.
When you’re not avoiding creatures, you’ll be tasked with collecting various items and clues. However, there are certain mechanics that make Saturnalia stand out. When all four characters die, the entire town layout is rebuilt. This provides a new challenge to your survival skills.
Unique minimalist setting induces claustrophobia. Sound design, such as the rattle of creatures, helps get your soul moving every step of this town. Also, the hand-drawn art style boosts the disturbing setting. However, the sketchbook-like visuals drop your framerate here and there, but nothing to distract you. If you want to play around with the intensity, the game enhances a considerable arsenal of accessibility.From infinite stamina to multiple difficulty levels, you have the freedom to choose your playstyle.
Ultimately, Saturnalia is one unique horror experience that combines with the developer’s own use of limited resources to create something compelling and unique.
