In this Sorry We’re Closed review, I discuss why and how it ticks all the boxes for what a modern take on PSX survival horrors should be.
Check out the game for yourself and wishlist it on the official Nintendo Switch page or Steam page.
Sorry We’re Closed Review
I’m going to start off this review by saying that I absolutely love this game. It’s stylish, it’s LGBTQ+, it’s retro, it’s dark yet bright at the same time, and it ticks oh so many boxes.
An Artistic Achievement
Sorry We’re Closed is a psychological horror that utilises low poly graphics to replicate the PS1 style but with a fresh lick of paint. The story, environments and overall themes are dark, but then you have the colourful weapons and outfits, as well as the artsy UI that oozes style.
Is the game creepy? Yes. But is it also stunningly beautiful? Of course. The character designs are unique, with their own personal clothing styles, haircuts, and makeup. The monster designs are gritty and effective, even with the PSX style, reminiscent of Silent Hill 1.
Just like old survival horrors, you’ve got the forced camera that switches perspectives as you explore, as well as optional tank controls. This might not be for everyone, but I love it. Something is totally unsettling about not being able to naturally turn the camera around to see what’s ahead… or behind you.
The Mechanics of Michelle
You play as Michelle, who finds herself amid a story that involves demons, angels, and the ‘otherworld’. With her Third Eye, she can change the environment around her with a simple snap of her fingers. Aesthetically, this looks cool, but it’s also one of the game’s main mechanics!
By using her Third Eye, she can stun approaching enemies, but also shift the space around her to reveal objects and doors that are otherwise not there. The Third Eye even changes the appearance of characters, turning them into angels or demons.
There are also plenty of puzzles – it wouldn’t be a survival horror game if not. Luckily, they’re pretty straightforward, but still a challenge. The inventory management is top-notch, clearly showing you how much ammo you have, which types you’ve collected, consumables, and any items you’ve picked up. Said items may be a crucial part of an upcoming puzzle! You can even sell artifacts for ‘Yowzas’ to purchase upgrades.
Combat
When it comes to combat, you can wield guns and melee weapons. Make sure to pick up bullets and health packs as you go along though! You have to zoom into first-person mode when attacking enemies, which is a neat feature that puts you in the driving seat.
Striking or shooting the crystal hearts in combat stuns your enemies, and charges your weapon’s ‘Heartbreak’ mode, which has a high damage output and turns your entire screen pink! Very Barbie core.
Open for Business
Do I recommend Sorry We’re Closed? A million times yes! If you like old-school horror games and miss the PSX era, then this game is just what you’re looking for. It’s got a Y2K flare combined with the darkness of familiar survival horror titles.
On top of that, the storyline is engaging, the characters are likeable, the dialogue and relationships feel natural, and trying to uncover the mysteries of both worlds had me glued to my screen for hours.
The good
- Stylish, artistic, and gorgeous
- Perfect for fans of survival horror games, like Silent Hill
- The weapons are fun to use and combat is engaging overall
- The storyline had me hooked!
- Low poly graphics, with detailed environments and character designs
The bad
- The controls can be a little tricky to get used to on the Switch at first