The Order of the Snake Scale (PS5) | REVIEW | Dystopian Survival Horror of the Lovecraft Kind!!!

Developed by FM Simple Games Studio and published by Ultimate Games S.A., The Order of the Snake Scale is a Lovecraftian survival horror title that immerses players in a chilling alternate reality.

The game's plot unfolds in a dystopian world dominated by corporate overlords and shadowy unions, where religion is outlawed, populations are sterilized en masse, and human rights are trampled underfoot by entities like the NML Corporation. At its core, it's a tale of investigation gone awry, as you delve into a bizarre murder in the isolated town of Happy Rock. This setup cleverly weaves in Lovecraft's signature cosmic horror, manifesting through eldritch entities, ancient cults, and an overwhelming sense of primordial dread that suggests humanity's insignificance against incomprehensible forces lurking in the shadows.

Players step into the shoes of Seth Vidius, a grizzled detective anti-hero with a cynical edge. His role drives the narrative forward as the primary investigator, piecing together clues amid growing paranoia and supernatural threats. Vidius's objectives revolve around unraveling the murder's secrets, navigating the town's twisted layout to gather evidence, and making pivotal choices that influence the story's branches. His predicament is dire leaving him stranded in a hostile environment riddled with grotesque monsters, booby-trapped rooms, and the constant threat of madness, he must balance survival with the pursuit of truth in a world that's actively unraveling.

The Gameplay ...

Visually, the game adopts a retro-inspired approach that shifts perspectives dynamically, including top-down for exploration and puzzle-solving, switching to first-person during intense encounters. This hybrid style enhances the gameplay flow, making traversal feel tactical while heightening immersion in action sequences. Core mechanics blend survival elements like resource scavenging and inventory management with logic-driven puzzles that require connecting environmental clues to progress. Combat is straightforward shooter fare, involving basic gunplay against nightmarish foes, though ammunition is plentiful enough to ease some tension. Platforming segments and arcade-like challenges add variety, demanding precise timing amid the horror.

The Presentation ...

Presentation-wise, the game stands out with its distorted lens filter that frames every scene as if viewed through a glitchy security camera, amplifying the feeling of constant surveillance and unease. The aiming reticle in first-person mode is a simple yet effective crosshair that pulses subtly with tension, fitting the Lovecraftian theme by evoking instability. Other visual designs, such as handcrafted 3D models and pre-rendered backgrounds reminiscent of classic survival horrors, create a surreal, oppressive atmosphere filled with shadowy corners and grotesque details that scream cosmic insignificance. 

The soundtrack leans into retro synths and ambient drones to build a creepy sense of impending doom, though it can loop repetitively and lose impact over time. Conversations unfold through textual dialogues peppered with voice-overs in English or Polish, adding a layer of immersion without full narration, while sound effects like sudden mechanical clangs deliver occasional jumpscares.

The Verdict ...

Ultimately, The Order of the Snake Scale shines in its unique fusion of dystopian sci-fi and Lovecraftian elements, delivering solid psychological tension through its atmospheric world-building and investigative depth. It nails the frights in early moments with its eerie isolation and monstrous reveals, but the experience can wane as ample resources and predictable threats reduce the raw survival edge. Still, it captures the essence of mind-bending horror effectively, making it a worthwhile dive for those craving existential dread.

This game is best suited for fans of retro survival horrors like early Resident Evil entries, enthusiasts of cosmic horror narratives, and players who appreciate puzzle-heavy adventures with a dash of action, particularly if you're okay with some rough edges in exchange for an intriguing, budget-friendly indie gem.