Lempo review (PS5)

Lempo, developed by One Trick Entertainment and published by PID Games, takes players on a psychological horror journey inspired by Finnish mythology. As Paul, an ordinary worker with a 9 to 5 job, you find yourself lost in the eerie forest of Metsänpeitto, tasked with uncovering the stories of those who were trapped before you and escaping the malevolent grasp of the woods. We checked out this dark horror game’s PlayStation 5 version.

One of the striking features of Lempo is its departure from the usual horror game formula. Instead of constant jump scares or guided narratives, players are left to explore the mysterious forest with minimal hand-holding. This encourages a methodical approach, examining documents and items meticulously for clues. The sense of danger and the thrill of exploration are skillfully interwoven, making it an engaging experience for those who enjoy venturing off the beaten path – though perhaps a bit too daunting for those who enjoy a carefully directed horror experience.

The game effectively creates tension through an ever-present feeling of danger rather than relying solely on traditional scares. Dark forests, navigated by landmarks rather than having a waypoint on a map, add to the atmosphere of dread. The combination of traditional folklore and modern perspectives offers a unique blend of horror, enriching the narrative with depth and complexity.

Puzzles play a significant role in Lempo, often proving to be challenging and requiring thoughtful consideration. While the game’s level of difficulty may deter some players seeking a more casual experience, the satisfaction of solving them is immensely rewarding. The puzzles are logically integrated into the game world as well, so they don’t break the immersion.

Visually, Lempo excels in creating a tense and striking ambiance amidst often dark environments. The attention to detail, particularly in elements like rock formations and waterfalls, is exceptional and adds immersiveness to the experience – as does the fact that some aspects of the environment can be better seen with your flashlight turned off. The gameplay mechanics, including movement and interaction, are mostly fluid and intuitive.

For those new to this style of game, some in-game cues may be overlooked initially, but perseverance is rewarded with a rich and engaging experience. Lempo sets a high bar for indie horror games, offering a visually striking, atmospheric, and intellectually stimulating adventure through Finnish mythology. It’s a standout psychological horror game that diverges from convention, delivering an experience rooted in exploration, atmosphere, and challenging puzzles. With its attractive visuals, attention to detail, and immersive gameplay, Lempo is an easy recommendation for horror fans looking for something different – though a fair warning is that it’s far less cinematic than most games in the genre.

Score: 7.7/10