Sorry We’re Closed is a fresh take on the survival horror genre, blending classic mechanics with a unique neon-punk aesthetic. Developed by à la mode games and published by Akupara Games, it follows Michelle, a London store clerk whose life takes a supernatural turn after being cursed by an enigmatic and love-obsessed demon known as the Duchess. The game, which launched on PC last year, has now arrived on PlayStation 5, and offers a mix of exploration, combat, and narrative-driven choices that shape Michelle’s fate.
The game’s structure alternates between everyday interactions in a stylized version of London and nightmarish journeys into the demon world. Michelle’s Third Eye ability allows her to perceive both dimensions simultaneously, influencing puzzles and combat. This mechanic adds an engaging twist, as it’s not just a combat tool but also a means of uncovering hidden truths. However, the overall difficulty balance may feel uneven – some players might find the game too easy, while others could struggle due to the lack of a more accessible/linear story mode. The multiple endings encourage replayability, with Michelle’s choices affecting not just her own story but the lives of those around her, reinforcing the game’s theme of personal consequences.
Combat is one of Sorry We’re Closed’s distinctive elements, using a first-person perspective where players must identify enemy weak points and chain attacks for maximum damage. While this almost rhythm-based approach makes for an interesting twist, it isn’t always as precise as it should be, particularly when facing multiple enemies. The hybrid control scheme (with fixed-camera exploration paired with first-person shooting) creates a mix of nostalgic and modern gameplay, but switching between perspectives can feel clunky at times. Having been originally developed for keyboard and mouse controls in the PC version, the PlayStation 5 controls don’t always offer the same level of precision.
Visually, the game embraces a retro aesthetic with low-poly character models, reminiscent of the PS1-era survival horror classics, but it enhances them with vibrant neon lighting and bold color contrasts. The fixed-camera angles add a cinematic feel, though they can occasionally make navigation frustrating. The character designs stand out, with Michelle, the Duchess, and supporting figures like the angel Benedict bringing personality and style to the world. The audio design is another highlight, featuring an unconventional mix of genres, even including rap and hip-hop tracks during boss battles. This unusual choice complements the game’s offbeat energy, making key moments even more intense.
Thematically, Sorry We’re Closed is more than just a horror story – it explores love, loss, and personal growth through its supernatural narrative. The game delves into toxic relationships and emotional trauma, using horror as a vehicle for introspection. Michelle’s journey is as much about self-discovery as it is about survival, and the game’s writing does a commendable job of making her struggles feel personal and relatable. However, the overall experience is relatively short, and while the multiple endings add some incentive for replays, the simplicity of the puzzles and occasional technical hiccups hold it back from reaching its full potential.
Despite some flaws, Sorry We’re Closed carves out its own space in the survival horror genre with a striking art style, intriguing mechanics, and an emotional core. Its fusion of retro influences with modern narrative depth makes it an interesting choice for fans of the genre looking for something unconventional. While the combat could be smoother and the difficulty balance more refined, the game’s originality and atmosphere make it a compelling experience, especially for those who appreciate horror with a more personal, introspective touch.
Score: 8.1/10
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