Lazaretto
- May 19, 2017
- Iron Monkey
Get on SteamLazaretto is a first-person survival horror game, where you play as an urban explorer investigating an abandoned quarantine island. With a focus on atmospheric horror and combat-free gameplay, players must rely on their wits to avoid dangerous creatures and solve unique puzzles. The game features immersive audio, eerie sound design, and horrifying creatures modeled and animated by industry professionals.
Mac OS
PC
Windows
Reviews
- The game features a unique storyline and immersive atmosphere that keeps players engaged and on edge.
- Puzzles are well-designed and require critical thinking, making the gameplay more rewarding.
- The sound design and visual effects contribute significantly to the horror experience, enhancing the overall tension.
- The game suffers from poor lighting, making it difficult to navigate and see important elements.
- Many players found the story to be poorly explained and reliant on overused notes and clichés.
- The gameplay can feel repetitive and lacks originality, with some puzzles being frustratingly vague or random.
- story26 mentions
- 31 % positive mentions
- 58 % neutral mentions
- 12 % negative mentions
The story of the game is a mixed bag, with some players appreciating its unique and engaging narrative set in an asylum, while others criticize it for being overly reliant on notes and pamphlets for exposition. Many find the puzzles and atmosphere enhance the storytelling, though some feel the plot lacks depth and coherence. Overall, the game leaves players eager for more, particularly in future chapters, despite its shortcomings.
“The game features very unique puzzles that get harder as the game progresses, an abnormal storyline unlike many other games, many scares, and the game really makes you think.”
“The story of this asylum turned infectious nightmare is satisfying and I'm hoping that we will see more as this is just chapter one.”
“I really want more of this game's world and story as this is again a very spooky game with decent pacing between the scares and things that may lull you into a false sense of security.”
“Just another typical 2010s 'run and hide from the invincible monster' simulator in the vein of the vastly overrated Slenderman, where the majority of the story is told through pamphlets and notes.”
“- The story is boring and told almost exclusively through notes (which were heavily overused in this game).”
“You're not there on behalf of some organization, seeking an ancient treasure or driven by a personal quest burning in the depths of your heart; basically, you're just goofing off.”
- atmosphere12 mentions
- 83 % positive mentions
- 8 % neutral mentions
- 8 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is described as both spine-tingling and immersive, with tight corridors and effective audio that enhances the sense of dread without relying on cheap scares. While some users find it to be one of the most atmospheric horror experiences on Steam, others feel it falls short of its claims, highlighting a mix of opinions on its overall effectiveness in creating a creepy environment.
“The part that got me was when the ghost near the beginning of the game comes after you and you have to jump down the lift shaft. It's a very creepy game with an excellent atmosphere; it made my skin crawl most of the way through. The nurses' station is my favorite part; it is a really well-done game, I can't wait for part 2!”
“Lazaretto is a really great example of spine-tingling atmosphere used well.”
“There is an overall sense of dread in the atmosphere as you make your way through the world of Lazaretto, filled with excellent audio that doesn't go the normal route of blaring loud noises at you for a cheap scare or overused random pop-ups.”
- gameplay8 mentions
- 13 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 38 % negative mentions
The gameplay is criticized for being overly simplistic, with long stretches of walking that do not engage players meaningfully. While a few games attempt to introduce unique mechanics or environments, there is a call for more thoughtful integration of gameplay elements that reflect the urban exploration theme. The audio design is praised, adding an atmospheric layer that may serve as an intentional gameplay mechanic.
“Game has a lovely audio track but also amazing haunting sounds, so this may actually be an intentional mechanic.”
“Walking for a long time is not gameplay; when will indie devs realize this?”
“They could have spent some time thinking about what kind of gear an urban explorer would be carrying and worked that into the mechanics in different ways.”
“Some of them (although very few, unfortunately) have tried something different, be it a different mechanic or unique environment.”
- music6 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The music in the game is praised for its atmospheric quality, effectively enhancing the overall tone and experience. Many users express a desire for an official soundtrack, indicating that they would like to enjoy more of the music outside of gameplay.
“The tight corridors and atmospheric music really set the tone.”
“Either way, it works well; I would really like to listen to some more of the music.”
“Maybe an OST is in order?”
- character development4 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The reviews highlight that the character designs are impressive, with multiple users praising their quality. However, there is no mention of deeper character development or growth within the narrative.
“The character designs were great.”
“The character designs were great.”
