Hollow Cocoon - Game Review

Horror Game Review: Hollow Cocoon

Rating: 7.5/10

Overview and introduction:

In the atmospheric world of Hollow Cocoon, players embark on a first-person horror adventure set against the backdrop of beautiful 1980s Japan. The game presents a compelling narrative woven with intriguing plot twists, but it grapples with certain aspects that prevent it from achieving greatness. Despite its strengths, a few critical issues impact the overall experience, resulting in a commendable but not flawless gameplay journey.

Pros:

Compelling Story and Plot Twists:

One of Hollow Cocoon's standout features is its engrossing narrative. As players step into the shoes of Minato Jinba, a college student returning to his mother's hometown, they are thrust into a tale filled with mystery and shocking revelations. The plot twists are very well crafted, keeping players interested in the game and story as they uncover the layers of a dark truth lurking beneath the surface.

Multiple Endings:

The inclusion of multiple endings adds a layer of complexity to the game, encouraging players to make choices that significantly impact the narrative. This feature not only enhances replayability but also adds depth to the storytelling. The ability to shape the outcome based on decisions provides a sense of agency, allowing players to explore alternative paths and conclusions. There are also few secrect endings that i have yet to discover myself.

Difficulty Selection:

Hollow Cocoon caters to a diverse audience by offering three difficulty options. This thoughtful addition ensures that players of varying skill levels can enjoy the game at their own pace. The flexibility to switch to a lower difficulty during gameplay is a welcome feature, allowing players to adapt the challenge to their preferences without feeling locked into a specific setting.

Cons:

Dark Atmosphere:

While the game's dark and foreboding atmosphere contributes to its horror ambiance, it can be a source of frustration for some players. The lack of brightness, especially when combined with other challenges, hinders navigation and diminishes the overall gaming experience. Tight spaces become particularly problematic, making it difficult for players to see even with the assistance of a flashlight.

Repetitive Hide-and-Seek Mechanics:

One of the gameplay mechanics involves a hide-and-seek dynamic with a pursuing monster. While this element initially adds tension and excitement, it becomes repetitive as players become familiar with the strategies to evade the creature. The predictability of these encounters can diminish the overall sense of fear and immersion, impacting the game's longevity.

Text-Heavy Storytelling:

Despite the compelling narrative, the delivery through lengthy letters and descriptions may pose a challenge for some players. The abundance of text, though rich in storytelling, can be overwhelming, leading to a temptation to skip through and potentially miss crucial details. Balancing the storytelling to maintain engagement without overwhelming the player with excessive text could enhance the overall experience.

Final Verdict:

Hollow Cocoon successfully delivers a captivating horror adventure with a rich narrative, multiple endings, and flexible difficulty options. While the game's strengths make it a worthwhile experience for horror enthusiasts, the issues with its dark atmosphere and repetitive gameplay mechanics prevent it from reaching the pinnacle of excellence. A rating of 7.5/10 reflects a recommendation for players who can navigate these challenges, appreciating the game's strengths while acknowledging its limitations. Hollow Cocoon stands as a commendable addition to the horror genre, offering a exciting journey into the depths of unspeakable horrors.

Where can i play and buy the game?

The game can be bought and played through steam store. Link (https://store.steampowered.com/app/2414630/Hollow_Cocoon/)

My full game walkthrough and review footage of hollow cocoon on youtube: