PC, PS4/5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox; Cozy Game Pals/Blumhouse Games

With its expertly crafted retro, low-poly visuals reminiscent of classics like Resident Evil and Silent Hill, this horror game is built around an emotionally gripping story.

Interview with Keith Stuart – Wed, Oct 23, 2024

As someone who recalls the birth of the survival horror genre, I find the recent resurgence of its aesthetic in indie games both thrilling and nostalgic. Titles like Crow County, The Closing Shift, and Murder House capture that eerie essence using low-poly 3D visuals and blocky textures. These games not only evoke memories of what made iconic franchises like Silent Hill and Clock Tower so engaging, but they also create modern supernatural adventures that resonate deeply. One standout in this movement is “Fear the Spotlight,” the debut from Cozy Game Pals and the new horror-focused publisher Blumhouse Games.

In the game, players follow two girls who sneak into their high school library late at night in search of a spirit board locked away in an occult exhibition display case. Vivian, a dedicated library volunteer, contrasts with Amy, a mysterious outsider with an interest in the supernatural. Their decision to conduct a séance leads them to not just contact the dead, but also to uncover a tragic event tied to the school’s recent history, culminating in Amy’s sudden disappearance.

As players step into Vivian’s shoes, they navigate through horror-laden corridors that have transformed into a nightmarish experience. Cozy Game Pals captures the quintessential horror setting of a school at night, complete with dark, locker-lined hallways, spooky bathrooms, and eerily silent gymnasiums and swimming pools. The game artfully plants classic horror elements, like a creaking door or a flickering light, hinting at the presence of something sinister lurking in the shadows. The meticulous use of 1990s technology—such as overhead projectors and old PCs—not only creates intriguing puzzles but also emphasizes that players are in a world that’s not quite modern.

Fans of horror classics will appreciate the game’s subtle nods to Resident Evil and Silent Hill, with important items shimmering for attention and Vivian’s gaze shifting towards intriguing artifacts. The familiar mechanics of solving puzzles—be it fuses for power generators or melodies for a piano—add to the nostalgic appeal, enhanced by low-poly visuals that feel both retro and artistically compelling.

What truly sets “Fear the Spotlight” apart, however, is its narrative depth. Unlike some older titles plagued by clichéd plots and stilted voice acting, this game weaves a heartfelt queer love story into its fabric, exploring themes of performance, observation, and the roles we play in our lives. The title’s spotlight serves both as a literal and metaphorical element, representing the complexities of human gaze—be it adoring, bullying, or obsessive.

Though the game is relatively short, allowing players to finish it within a few hours, its mild challenge makes it an excellent gateway for young adults into the horror genre. The concluding message is a touching acknowledgment of the players’ experience and a reminder that perfection is an illusion. While “Fear the Spotlight” may not be flawless, the time spent immersed in its eerie atmosphere is captivating and thought-provoking. It demonstrates how horror can serve as a unique lens to reflect on our lives, ultimately revealing insights into ourselves and the world around us. With love at its core, this game promises more than just scares; it offers an experience that lingers long after the screen goes dark.

“Fear the Spotlight” is now available on PC, PS4/5, Switch, and Xbox, starting at £18.