Realms of the Haunting
- April 24, 2014
- Gremlin Interactive
Get on Steam"Realms of the Haunting" is a horror-themed first-person adventure game that combines action, puzzle-solving, and supernatural elements. The player assumes the role of a protagonist who explores a haunted mansion and uncovers its dark secrets while battling occult forces and uncovering a mysterious artifact. The game features a deep and immersive storyline with live-action video sequences and full-motion video cutscenes.
PC
Windows
Reviews
- The game features beautiful environments and a captivating atmosphere, enhanced by impressive FMV cutscenes.
- It successfully blends FPS, adventure, and survival horror elements, providing a unique and immersive experience.
- The story is intriguing and deeply rooted in mythological themes, keeping players engaged throughout the gameplay.
- The controls are clunky and difficult to master, which can frustrate players accustomed to modern gaming mechanics.
- Some puzzles can be overly obscure or require pixel hunting, leading to potential confusion and frustration.
- The combat mechanics are often criticized for being repetitive and lacking depth, with enemies sometimes feeling like bullet sponges.
- story50 mentions
- 44 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 6 % negative mentions
The game's story is a captivating blend of horror and mystery, deeply rooted in Judaic and Christian lore, with a plot that gradually unfolds over time, requiring player interaction to fully explore its intricacies. While the narrative is delivered through nostalgic full-motion video cutscenes and engaging dialogue, it is both intriguing and occasionally absurd, drawing players into a richly atmospheric experience reminiscent of classic 90s adventure games. Despite some criticisms regarding gameplay mechanics and graphics, the story remains a standout feature, offering a unique and immersive journey.
“I found the story intriguing, the main hook being the mystery surrounding the house and the characters who seem to be manipulating you into their grand scheme.”
“The story is intriguing and through a series of FMV, letters, scrolls, and books you will find a world of mysterious lore.”
“The story, however, is where it's at and it delivers a good dose with some mostly good acting.”
“The plot starts really bonkers; you'll have to wait a long time (about 10 hours) to understand what is happening.”
“As for the storyline, one has to wonder what kind of drugs the developers were on when they created this game.”
“I mean, some parts of the story are so over the top and make no sense at all; without spoiling too much, if you want some fun times and a good laugh in between, make sure to try out this game.”
- graphics36 mentions
- 31 % positive mentions
- 56 % neutral mentions
- 14 % negative mentions
The graphics of this game, while considered first-class at its release in 1996, are now viewed as dated and limited, particularly in resolution and detail. However, many players appreciate the retro aesthetic and atmospheric design, noting that the visuals still hold up well for their age and contribute positively to the overall experience. Despite some criticisms regarding the graphical quality, the game's engaging story and gameplay often overshadow these concerns.
“Replaying Roth in 2023, the visuals are wonderfully retro, holding up very well considering their age, and the game positively oozes atmosphere.”
“The graphics are also well drawn, and the 3D modeling that is present really helps the atmosphere throughout the game.”
“I was amazed by its graphics, the well-acted FMV scenes, and the very well-written storyline.”
“As for the graphics and the FMV quality... well, this is a very dated game, and this is what the systems were capable of at that time.”
“Yes, the graphics are absolutely horrendous - and generally I'm not a fan of retro pixelation.”
“Graphics: one disappointing thing straight out of the gate: this game's maximum resolution is 640x480.”
- atmosphere27 mentions
- 63 % positive mentions
- 26 % neutral mentions
- 11 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is consistently praised for its evocative and eerie qualities, enhanced by a haunting soundtrack that fosters a sense of mystery and tension. Players appreciate the retro visuals and unique level design, which contribute to a captivating and immersive experience, despite some criticisms regarding graphics and controls. Overall, the game's atmosphere is a defining feature, providing a chilling and engaging backdrop that keeps players invested.
“Replaying Roth in 2023, the visuals are wonderfully retro, holding up very well considering their age, and the game positively oozes atmosphere.”
“The atmosphere is what really defines this game.”
“The music is also extremely good and creeps around you, keeping a constant atmosphere of mystery and restlessness.”
“The atmosphere is really eerie and mysterious.”
“The graphics are also well drawn, and the 3D modeling that is present really helps the atmosphere throughout the game.”
- gameplay23 mentions
- 30 % positive mentions
- 57 % neutral mentions
- 13 % negative mentions
The gameplay of "Realms of the Haunting" is a unique blend of point-and-click adventure and first-person shooter mechanics, offering a mix of action and puzzles that remains engaging despite its outdated graphics and janky controls. While some players find the gameplay repetitive and the AI lacking, many appreciate its imaginative plot and nostalgic retrogaming feel, highlighting its functional design and entertaining dark atmosphere. Overall, it is considered a solid experience that has aged well, with a call for potential updates to enhance its visual appeal.
“The plotline is imaginative, the characters are likable, the gameplay is more than just shooting.”
“I wasn't sure how this game would turn out when I first bought it - but I have to say I was extremely impressed by the gameplay which is full of action and puzzles.”
“At the time, it was one of the best examples of fusion gameplay and it is still a great game.”
“The game is indeed outdated, but it does contain better gameplay and more detail than today's games.”
“See past the graphics of today's games and you would notice that the gameplay is quite simple and doesn't feature anything amazing.”
“Sure, the gameplay can be a bit repetitive and the enemies have very stupid AI.”
- music12 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 42 % neutral mentions
- 25 % negative mentions
The music in the game is widely praised for its ability to create a mysterious and tense atmosphere, enhancing the overall experience, especially when played with headphones. Reviewers note its effective sound design, which includes a brooding MIDI soundtrack and realistic sound effects that contribute to jump scares and a haunting ambiance reminiscent of classic horror titles. While some mention occasional issues with the intensity of the music lingering too long, the overall consensus is that the soundtrack significantly elevates the gameplay.
“The music is also extremely good and creeps around you, keeping a constant atmosphere of mystery and restlessness.”
“The sound design, from the brooding MIDI soundtrack to the audio samples, makes the game well worth playing with headphones on.”
“One of the big standouts of this game is its music, which does a fantastic job setting up the mood of the area, even if it sometimes forgets to turn off the intense music after the intense stuff is long gone.”
“The music, sound effects, and ambience are very nice and set the mood, keeping you on edge.”
“The OST and sound design, on the other hand, are actually quite good.”
“AI is clunky, controls are stiff, music is sub-par, but still it not only succeeds, but passes with flying colors as a game wholly unlike any other.”
- humor2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is generally well-received, with players finding it amusing and enjoyable. Notably, the performances of the amateur actors are highlighted as a standout element, adding to the overall comedic experience.
“The overall game experience is enjoyable and filled with humor.”
“The funniest part is that the actors were complete amateurs, yet their performance is excellent!”
- optimization1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's optimization is generally well-received, particularly highlighting that the full-motion video (FMV) sequences are well-executed and feature commendable performances.
- monetization1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The monetization model is generally viewed positively, with users appreciating it as a significant improvement over the prevalent cash grab tactics seen in many contemporary games.
- grinding1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players find the grinding aspect of the game to be mostly enjoyable, with engaging puzzles that evoke nostalgia for classic titles like "Thief," though some late-game mazes and switch mechanics can feel tedious.
