After a long and exhausting day, some people might argue that winding down by immersing yourself in a grisly occult horror game is not the most conventional choice. However, against my better judgment, I stumbled upon the trailer for Tenebris Somnia, and my curiosity got the better of me. Developed by Andrés Borghi and Tobías Rusjan of Saibot Studios from Argentina, this game offers a putrid journey like no other.
In Tenebris Somnia, players assume the role of Julia, a young woman visiting her former filmmaker boyfriend to return their shared apartment key. Julia is struggling with the aftermath of their breakup, but it’s evident that her ex-boyfriend is faring much worse. His apartment is riddled with shattered glass, eerie red substances, and a collection of unnerving occult literature.
The game’s main twist is the seamless integration of two contrasting visual styles within the same frame. On one hand, players explore a vibrant and unsettling 8-bit world, where they must navigate and combine objects as one would in a traditional adventure game. However, it’s worth noting that Tenebris Somnia takes a more energetic approach, allowing players to equip and use weapons like a wrench, as well as incorporating a run button.
On the other hand, Tenebris Somnia surprises players with professionally shot and acted live-action sequences. This begs the question: which visual style is more terrifying? In my opinion, the 8-bit graphics, with their shadowy figures lurking behind shower curtains, evoke a greater sense of alarm than their live-action counterparts. Nonetheless, I find myself fascinated by the combined aesthetic. It reminds me of the golden era of full-motion video games.
Additionally, the grotesque monsters featured in Tenebris Somnia bear an eerie resemblance to the creatures that populate the Hellraiser universe. Their presence adds an extra layer of terror and intrigue, immersing players further into the game’s haunting atmosphere.
If you’re brave enough, Tenebris Somnia offers a demo version on Steam, allowing players to sample its unnerving delights firsthand. For those who prefer to keep their wrenches metaphorically clean, a captivating trailer is also available to give a glimpse into the game’s unique blend of visual styles.
Tenebris Somnia is a masterful combination of two contrasting visual approaches, seamlessly blended together to create an immersive and spine-chilling experience. The game’s 8-bit sections offer an energetic twist on traditional adventure games, while the professionally produced live-action sequences add a touch of realism to an otherwise unsettling world. Whether you’re a fan of horror or simply seeking an enthralling gaming experience, Tenebris Somnia is certainly worth exploring. Just be prepared for the horrors that await you within its eerie depths.
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