Over two years ago, we had the opportunity to meet with the passionate developers at Red Soul Games. Their dedication to crafting a modern homage to classic survival horror left a lasting impression, and we’ve been eagerly anticipating the release of Post Trauma ever since. Now, with the PlayStation 5 version in hand, it’s time to see how their vision has materialized.
Post Trauma immediately immerses players in a world reminiscent of late ’90s survival horror. The game opens with Roman, a middle-aged train conductor portrayed by Togo Igawa, awakening in an abandoned train, setting the stage for a journey through a surreal and unsettling dimension. The fixed camera angles, a deliberate nod to genre staples like Silent Hill and Resident Evil, are employed effectively to build tension and unease. These perspectives, combined with a lo-fi, VHS-style aesthetic, create a haunting atmosphere that keeps players on edge.
The game’s sound design further enhances its eerie ambiance. Composer Nicolas Gasparini’s score echoes the haunting melodies of Silent Hill’s Akira Yamaoka, complementing the game’s visuals and amplifying the sense of dread. Every creak, whisper, and distant echo contributes to an immersive horror experience.
Next to survival horror, puzzles are also at the heart of Post Trauma, challenging players to observe their surroundings meticulously and think critically. These environmental riddles often require a slow burn approach where you make notes of clues, reminiscent of classic survival horror titles. While some puzzles can be convoluted, they generally strike a balance between challenge and solvability, rewarding attentive players.
However, the game’s combat mechanics are less refined. Roman’s encounters with enemies often feel clunky, with basic AI and limited enemy variety diminishing the sense of threat. Combat seems to take a backseat to exploration and puzzle-solving, which, while perhaps intentional, may leave some players wanting more depth in this area.
Narratively, Post Trauma presents a story steeped in themes of trauma and guilt. While the game hints at deeper emotional undercurrents, the storytelling occasionally lacks coherence, with some characters only appearing briefly and plot points remaining underdeveloped. This ambiguity can leave players craving a more satisfying narrative payoff, or wishing some story beats were more developed.
In conclusion, Post Trauma is a commendable effort by Red Soul Games to revive the essence of classic survival horror. Its atmospheric design, challenging puzzles, and nostalgic presentation offer a compelling experience for genre enthusiasts. While it stumbles in areas like combat and storytelling, the game’s strengths and ability to tap into nostalgia showcase the developers’ passion and potential. For fans of old-school horror, Post Trauma is a journey worth undertaking.
Score: 7.0/10
Press Play Media 