Downward Spiral: Prologue
- March 30, 2017
- 3rd Eye Studios
Get on Steam"Downward Spiral: Prologue" is a single-player, story-driven psychological horror game. The player explores an abandoned spaceship as they uncover a narrative centered around trauma, guilt, and redemption. Gameplay involves solving puzzles and combat, with a focus on exploration and discovery.
PC
Windows
Cloud
NVIDIA GeForce NOW
Reviews
- The game offers a unique zero-gravity movement mechanic that is immersive and enjoyable.
- At its low price point, the game provides a fun, albeit short, experience that showcases VR capabilities.
- The atmosphere and graphics are praised, making it a visually appealing experience for players.
- The game is very short, with most players completing it in around 15-20 minutes, leading many to feel it should be free or bundled with a full game.
- There is a lack of narrative and depth, with simple gameplay and minimal puzzles, leaving players wanting more content.
- Movement can be difficult and frustrating, with some players experiencing issues with controls and navigation in the zero-gravity environment.
- story38 mentions
- 16 % positive mentions
- 74 % neutral mentions
- 11 % negative mentions
The game's story is generally perceived as minimal and underdeveloped, with many reviewers noting its short length and lack of exposition. While some players appreciate the atmospheric environments and gameplay mechanics, they express disappointment over the absence of a compelling narrative, suggesting that the experience feels more like a demo than a full game. Overall, the story mode is described as a brief but enjoyable introduction, leaving players eager for more content.
“I expected some decent VR space game and got a great atmospheric short story with very good gameplay and space feeling.”
“I can't wait for the story to continue.”
“I love the general concept and story a lot!”
“I wish there was a 'neutral' review option; because while this demo looks and plays alright enough, it ultimately feels like it should 100% be a free teaser for the full game instead of being sold for a price for what is a 15-20 minute demo with zero exposition - so you don't know what's the setting/story you're getting into at all.”
“There isn't really anything in the way of story here.”
“There seems to be a lack of story.”
- gameplay22 mentions
- 14 % positive mentions
- 73 % neutral mentions
- 14 % negative mentions
Gameplay reviews highlight a mix of unique mechanics and limitations. While the grab-and-push movement and zero-g mechanics offer an engaging experience, many players express disappointment over the short playtime, simplistic graphics, and lack of narrative depth. The cooperative play is praised, but the overall gameplay experience feels underdeveloped and lacking in content.
“The grab-and-push movement mechanics are somewhat unique and pretty intuitive (but might trigger slight motion sickness if you're sensitive to it, I'm not).”
“I expected some decent VR space game and got a great atmospheric short story with very good gameplay and space feeling.”
“The zero-g mechanic creates a whole new style of multiplayer deathmatch and I think it's amazing and really well suited for VR.”
“Bad graphics, simple gameplay, non-existent narrative.”
“I bought this for the zero-g mechanic and to experience the Earth from a space station, but it's been severely watered down (there is no transfer of kinetic energy to angular velocity when you touch something - you just stop!) and they have annoying flaps on each side (helmet I suppose) which restrict peripheral vision.”
“But here is the biggest negative, it's only 20 minutes of gameplay, come on guys, I want more, give me more.”
- atmosphere16 mentions
- 88 % positive mentions
- 13 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's atmosphere is widely praised for its immersive qualities, featuring slick visuals and engaging sound design that enhance the overall experience. Players appreciate the strong sense of place, even in a space setting, and many feel it has significant potential for a larger game. Overall, the atmosphere contributes greatly to the enjoyment and promise of the game.
“It's slick, dripping with atmosphere, incredibly immersive and shows real promise for a full game experience.”
“I expected some decent VR space game and got a great atmospheric short story with very good gameplay and a strong sense of space.”
“The game has a great atmosphere and has a lot of potential.”
- graphics14 mentions
- 29 % positive mentions
- 43 % neutral mentions
- 29 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game receive mixed reviews, with some praising the high-quality visuals and 80's inspired designs, while others criticize them as bad or merely decent. The zero gravity simulator aspect is highlighted positively, showcasing impressive graphical elements, but some players feel that the overall experience is hindered by limited movement options.
“The graphics are amazing.”
“Cool zero gravity simulator, very nice graphics, sort of 80's inspired enemies to shoot.”
“High graphics.”
“Bad graphics, simple gameplay, non-existent narrative.”
“Better graphics, but the lack of freedom in movement does not compare to the zero-g experience in Downward Spiral.”
“Bad graphics, simple gameplay, non-existent narrative.”
- humor2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is often highlighted through comparisons to other titles, with some users finding these comparisons absurd or amusing. Overall, the humor seems to stem from playful critiques and exaggerated reactions to the game's similarities with other games.
- emotional2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Users express a desire for a more immersive and realistic zero-gravity experience, highlighting that the current options may hinder emotional engagement for those seeking a true sense of disorientation and freedom in gameplay. The need for a balance between accessibility and emotional immersion is emphasized, suggesting that a more authentic experience could enhance emotional connection to the game.
- music2 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game is praised for its minimalistic style, which enhances the overall experience without being overwhelming. Players appreciate the subtlety and effectiveness of the soundtrack.
“I love the minimal music you sometimes hear.”
- replayability2 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players highlight the strong replayability of the game, particularly praising the deathmatch mode for its engaging content and value for money. This aspect contributes significantly to the overall enjoyment and longevity of the gaming experience.
“Having played the deathmatch now, I can seriously say this is a fantastic game, and a very justified price considering the content and replayability of the deathmatch.”
