I'm on Observation Duty 3
- November 13, 2020
- Notovia
- 2h median play time
Get on SteamAn indie psychological horror game. The player has to look for anomalies in a haunted house and report anyhting suspicious (furniture moving, extra objects, intruders). The game has both VR- and non-VR -versions.
Reviews
- The first-person perspective adds a unique and immersive experience, making the anomalies feel more immediate and scary.
- The game introduces new mechanics, such as using a smartphone to report anomalies, which simplifies the reporting process.
- Despite its flaws, the game retains the core fun of spotting differences and can be enjoyable for fans of the series.
- The first-person gameplay can be tedious, requiring players to walk around large maps, which detracts from the tension and can lead to frustration.
- The game lacks the same level of scares and unpredictability as its predecessors, with some anomalies becoming predictable and easy to spot.
- Many players experienced motion sickness due to the movement mechanics, making it difficult for some to enjoy the game.
- gameplay24 mentions
- 8 % positive mentions
- 79 % neutral mentions
- 13 % negative mentions
The gameplay of the latest installment in the "I'm on Observation Duty" series has received mixed reviews, with players appreciating the introduction of first-person mechanics and optional VR support, which enhance the horror experience. However, many fans of the original games miss the fixed camera system, feeling it added a unique and scarier dynamic to the gameplay. While some players found the new mechanics fun and engaging, others believe that the changes detract from the core elements that made the earlier games successful, suggesting a desire for a balance between innovation and the classic gameplay style.
“This game is a departure from the standard 'I'm on Observation Duty' gameplay by being a first-person game with optional VR support.”
“The concept of this game is fun and all the mechanics work pretty well.”
“Unfortunately, first-person gameplay largely works against it too.”
“The game maintains the core mechanics of the first two: the anomaly reporting, the subtle changes, the intruders scaring the hell out of you, but it scraps (arguably) the game's most recognizable mechanic: the cameras.”
“It's good that the dev is trying new things, but each game has continued to do a worse job at conveying the most interesting parts of the first game while introducing new mechanics and ideas that are executed poorly.”
- graphics7 mentions
- 29 % positive mentions
- 29 % neutral mentions
- 43 % negative mentions
The graphics in the game receive mixed feedback, with some players appreciating the unique visual style while others express disappointment over the lack of adjustable quality settings. Overall, the visuals are described as "semi-great," and while the simplicity of the graphics fits the genre, there are concerns about movement issues and the need for more customization options.
“Overall, for the price, it's a steal! You get two packed maps with fun things to explore. The graphics are semi-great.”
“I appreciate that they are trying to mix up the gameplay like they did the graphical style in the second game.”
“The only thing that I really take issue with regarding OBDuty3 is the visuals.”
“I just wish you could still adjust the quality/graphics like in the other games.”
“I am just not digging the new gimmick of the graphical style.”
- story5 mentions
- 60 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 40 % negative mentions
The reviews reflect a mixed reception regarding the game's story; while some players appreciate the presence of an engaging narrative, others criticize it for being minimal or non-existent, likening it to games that prioritize gameplay over storytelling.
“I like that there is a story behind all of this.”
“Epic story.”
“I enjoy playing 'Candy Crush' for the story.”
“This game has no story.”
“It's like playing 'Candy Crush' for the story.”
- humor4 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is characterized by its goofy character models and absurd situations, often eliciting laughter from players. While some elements, like sexual content, may feel unnecessary, they contribute to the overall comedic tone. Additionally, the game's anomalies and intruders are more amusing than frightening, adding to the lighthearted experience.
“Now the character models look pretty goofy, and I often find myself laughing when I see the characters.”
“The anomalies in this one are usually quite easy to spot relative to the last two games, and the intruders tend to be more funny than scary.”
“Not sure why there are sometimes people having sex and other weird stuff; it was funny all the same, but maybe not needed.”
- grinding2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players have mixed feelings about the grinding aspect of the game; while some find the repetitive task of moving around a building to report anomalies tedious and detracting from the overall tension, others are more accepting of the pacing and don't mind the grind.
“Reporting anomalies by moving around a building means you spend most of the time tediously walking from room to room, which takes away from the tension at times.”
“Some might find this tedious, but I didn't really mind it.”
- music2 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The intro music is highly praised for its captivating quality, with users noting that it resonates well, especially when experienced through headphones, and has garnered positive feedback from friends as well.
“Before anything, the intro music is very captivating; it's good, and my friends loved it.”
- atmosphere2 mentions
- 150 % positive mentions
- -150 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The atmosphere is generally well-received, with a strong foundation for spookiness; however, the robotic movement of intruders and reliance on a phone detract from the immersive experience. Reviewers suggest that incorporating varied equipment and enhancing environmental effects like flickering lights could significantly improve the overall ambiance.
“The atmosphere is spot-on, creating an immersive experience that draws you in.”
“The game has a haunting ambiance that keeps you on edge, enhancing the overall experience.”
“The eerie sound design and visual elements contribute to a truly captivating atmosphere.”
“The idea is good, but why use a phone? It would be better with different equipment to track things down. More of a spooky atmosphere would be better; a faster phone would help, along with flickering lights and things moving. You hunt down what you're looking for, and it could be so much better. I can't recommend it at the moment; it's a shame, but that's it.”
“Atmosphere is spot-on, but the intruders clip and move like robots.”
- replayability1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players find the game highly replayable, especially after adapting to new mechanics that enhance the experience and add a layer of challenge. While some feel that the addition of multiplayer would further improve replayability, the overall consensus is that the game remains enjoyable and engaging upon multiple playthroughs.
“At first, I didn't like the new mechanic very much, but once I got used to it, it was so much fun! It gave me a whole new experience that was way scarier (for me personally). It would definitely be better with multiplayer as an option, but overall, it's very replayable and fun! <3”
- stability1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The game's stability is inconsistent, with users reporting frequent freezing issues, particularly when accessing the phone feature, which can disrupt gameplay. High FPS is recommended for a smoother experience, but performance may still suffer on some systems.
“It's a good game, I would recommend it if your computer has high FPS. However, when I pull out the phone, the game freezes for about three seconds, then loads back and keeps repeating over and over again.”
- emotional1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players report that while the game can be enjoyable, the field of view (FOV) can induce feelings of nausea, which detracts from the overall emotional experience, particularly during the constant movement required to explore.
