SCP: Secret Laboratory
- December 29, 2017
- Northwood Studios
- 79h median play time
Get on Steam"SCP: Secret Laboratory" is a free, multiplayer game set in the SCP Foundation universe. Players can assume the role of various SCPs, foundation personnel, or chaos insurgents, each with unique abilities and objectives. Gameplay involves exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving in a procedurally generated facility. Cooperation and betrayal are essential to success in this tense and immersive game.
PC
Windows
Cloud
NVIDIA GeForce NOW
Reviews
- humor3,672 mentions
- 98 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 2 % negative mentions
The humor in "SCP: Secret Laboratory" is a standout feature, with players frequently highlighting the game's ability to create hilarious moments through its chaotic multiplayer interactions and voice chat. Many reviews emphasize the comedic potential of the community, where players engage in absurd roleplay, share memes, and often find themselves in ridiculous situations, making the game more about laughter than fear. However, the humor can be inconsistent, as some players report encountering toxic behavior and unfunny mic spammers, but overall, the game's blend of horror and comedy is well-received, especially when played with friends.
“Ridiculously fun, stupidly hilarious, I love it so much.”
“There you can find a bunch of medical items on the ground, use them all, and either die in a funny way (such as having your hands fall off) or become a god!”
“10/10 hilarious moments are guaranteed every time you play.”
“There's not even any enjoyment in talking to other people, since I end up muting half the lobby anyways because they're just blasting unfunny music or using their unfunny soundboards.”
“The community is either really funny, really unfunny, or racist, but overall a pretty nice game.”
“The complete lack of effort from teammates is certainly not funny anymore, and the dev team has a terrible understanding of the meta and seemingly deliberate 'unbalancing' of the game.”
- gameplay2,461 mentions
- 39 % positive mentions
- 55 % neutral mentions
- 7 % negative mentions
The gameplay of "SCP: Secret Laboratory" is characterized by its chaotic, asymmetrical multiplayer experience, where players can take on various roles, including SCP entities and foundation personnel, each with unique mechanics. While many players find the gameplay fun and engaging, especially with friends, it can also feel repetitive and unbalanced at times, particularly with certain SCPs being overpowered. The community interactions, often enhanced by voice chat, significantly contribute to the overall enjoyment, making the game more about social experiences than just the mechanics themselves.
“Just pure SCP excitement with an amazing gameplay loop that creates some of the most fun and unique rounds out of any game.”
“The gameplay is fun if you are looking to socialize, and the combination makes it a fun experience with variation in every round.”
“The gameplay itself was fairly straightforward and easy to understand, which helped me get used to it without feeling overwhelmed, but still almost every match felt completely unique thanks to the unpredictable, ever-changing map layouts, item spawns, and interactions with other players.”
“The gameplay is honestly pretty okay, but if you put 20 players with proximity chat into anything, it is gonna be fun.”
“If you want to spend your first 20 hours of gameplay not knowing what is going on, this game is for you!”
“The gameplay is kind of boring, and the only thing that's really fun is the community, but that all depends on the server.”
- graphics1,448 mentions
- 37 % positive mentions
- 54 % neutral mentions
- 9 % negative mentions
The graphics of "SCP: Secret Laboratory" receive mixed feedback from players. Many appreciate the game's visuals, noting that they are impressive for a free indie title, with detailed environments and character models that enhance the horror atmosphere. However, some players report performance issues, particularly on lower-end systems, and express frustration over the lack of support for integrated graphics, which limits accessibility for many potential players. Overall, while the graphics are generally well-received, optimization and compatibility remain significant concerns.
“The graphics are stunning, even if you have to lower them for better performance.”
“This game is absolutely amazing; the graphics are great (though you might need to turn them down if you don't have a really good PC), the audio is great, and the community is absolutely hilarious.”
“Scp: secret lab is possibly the most fun I've had with an asymmetrical multiplayer horror game since project playtime; the graphics are great, the game is extremely well balanced, each SCP has a great design and is modeled very well, the environments, especially the new HCZ, fit the SCP lab theme and look excellent for this game.”
“I cannot play this free game anymore as Intel integrated graphics are no longer supported.”
“This game used to run fine on my machine before, but after recent updates overhauling graphics and models, I constantly suffer from stutters and rarely total game freeze, not to mention the absurdly high loading times for a game running on an SSD.”
“The graphics are abysmal, resembling a low-budget indie project from the early 2000s.”
- story607 mentions
- 12 % positive mentions
- 78 % neutral mentions
- 11 % negative mentions
The game's story is largely minimal or non-existent, with many players noting that it primarily focuses on gameplay rather than a cohesive narrative. However, some reviews highlight the potential for player-driven storytelling, where each match can create unique experiences and interactions reminiscent of a horror movie. While the game draws from the SCP lore, its fragmented delivery and lack of a structured storyline leave much to be desired for those seeking a rich narrative experience.
“The game’s fidelity to the SCP lore and its atmospheric storytelling enhance the immersion and intrigue for players exploring the facility.”
“With its compelling gameplay, engaging storyline, and well-crafted atmosphere, SCP: Secret Laboratory stands as a top choice for horror game enthusiasts looking for a thrilling and immersive experience.”
“Every match turns into a great story of trust, betrayal, and amazing plays that you'll remember forever - in particular when playing with friends, with whom you can grind an axe 'till death does you apart.”
“The scattered lore elements add depth to the narrative, though the delivery of the story can sometimes feel fragmented.”
“A more cohesive narrative arc or additional story elements could help to provide a clearer sense of progression and purpose throughout the game.”
“The story is simple and has only a couple main points, where it really glows is in gameplay, but I'll go over the story quickly.”
- optimization537 mentions
- 17 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The optimization of the game has received overwhelmingly negative feedback from players, with many citing severe performance issues, frequent frame rate drops, and crashes, even on high-end systems. While some updates have aimed to improve performance, players still report that the game is poorly optimized, making it difficult to enjoy, especially for those with lower-spec PCs. Despite these challenges, many players still find the gameplay enjoyable, indicating a strong potential if optimization issues are addressed.
“While the game does have its share of bugs and optimization issues, they haven't significantly impacted my enjoyment.”
“This game is a masterpiece in my opinion, it might not have the best graphics but it can be really fun playing with 20-30 people on a server, makes the game experience very fun and funny at times.”
“Despite occasional bugs and performance issues, the constant updates and active community keep the experience fresh and engaging.”
“The game is horribly unoptimized and they say that they can't optimize it further (it can get optimized. they're simply lazy.)”
“Game was really fun until this new update, new heavy containment area is clustered and I see the vision with trying to make the game more realistic but with how poorly optimized this game is, it just absolutely destroys FPS and makes performance unbearable at times.”
“This game is so unoptimized it's literally unplayable for anyone who doesn't have even a decent PC.”
- stability523 mentions
- 3 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 97 % negative mentions
The game's stability is frequently criticized, with many players reporting numerous bugs, glitches, and performance issues that can disrupt gameplay. While some find the chaotic nature of these bugs adds to the fun, others describe the experience as frustrating and unplayable at times, particularly during server connection and loading. Overall, the game is seen as a work in progress, with potential for improvement as developers continue to address these stability concerns.
“Other than that, the game is practically bug free.”
“Currently, the game is almost bug free; after playing 70 hours, I haven't found any.”
“The game runs great; I haven't had any bugs, and it greatly relies on in-game chat and uses Steam voice.”
“Game was working fine the other day, but today it only loads me into a black unresponsive screen before crashing 2 minutes later. I don't recommend this buggy mess.”
“Unstable, buggy, confusing, and loves to crash.”
“Game is unplayable, buggy, and toxic.”
- music482 mentions
- 24 % positive mentions
- 72 % neutral mentions
- 4 % negative mentions
The music aspect of the game is a mixed bag, with many players enjoying the atmospheric soundtracks that enhance the horror experience, while others express frustration over the overwhelming presence of players blasting loud, often inappropriate music through their microphones. The chaotic community often leads to humorous moments, but the constant mic spam can detract from immersion and gameplay. Overall, while the official soundtrack is praised, the player-generated music can be both entertaining and annoying, depending on the server dynamics.
“The soundtracks are really good, and the game is fun, though it can be tricky to learn at first.”
“The music in the title screen makes your ears get an orgasm.”
“The sound design, including the music and sound effects, effectively heightens the tension and fear.”
“The community is absolutely chaotic, often blasting anime music or gorilla screaming over the intercom, but it definitely enhanced the experience.”
“You often can't hear anyone because of 5 different people playing songs loud as hell, and the SCPs will torture you in multiple ways.”
“The only problem is the music in the main menu is very loud and the first lobby you join will most likely not connect, but other than that it is a great and amazing game.”
- atmosphere251 mentions
- 54 % positive mentions
- 41 % neutral mentions
- 5 % negative mentions
The atmosphere in "SCP: Secret Laboratory" is widely praised for its immersive and tense qualities, effectively capturing the eerie essence of the SCP universe through sound design, lighting, and environmental details. Players often describe the experience as both chilling and engaging, with moments of genuine fear heightened by the unpredictability of multiplayer interactions. However, some reviews note that the atmosphere can be disrupted by player behavior, leading to a mix of comedic and serious tones depending on the lobby dynamics.
“The atmosphere is tense, and the lore behind the SCP universe adds a unique layer that keeps you on your toes.”
“Each sound—the creak of metal, the distant hum of machinery, and sudden, eerie noises—plays a crucial role in maintaining an atmosphere of tension.”
“The attention to detail in replicating the atmosphere of the SCP universe is commendable, from the eerie sound design to the dimly lit environments that keep players on edge throughout their gameplay experience.”
“There have been many updates, some of which were great and some of which, for me, ruined the atmosphere of the game.”
“The character and environment models are rudimentary and poorly detailed, with often monotonous textures and lighting that fails to create the eerie atmosphere that the game tries to evoke.”
“The atmosphere was ruined in an engine update.”
- replayability216 mentions
- 57 % positive mentions
- 41 % neutral mentions
- 1 % negative mentions
The game boasts exceptional replayability, largely due to its randomized maps, diverse roles, and engaging community interactions, ensuring that no two matches feel the same. Players appreciate the endless variety of scenarios and the fun dynamics introduced by proximity chat and teamwork, making it particularly enjoyable in larger groups. However, some users express a desire for more playable SCPs and content updates to maintain long-term interest.
“The proximity chat, the teamwork (or lack thereof), the distinct play style of each class, and the overall different feel compared to other games, along with the fact that the game still gets major updates after all these years, all increase the replayability of the game immensely.”
“This game is amazing! I recommend it because it never gets boring and is always randomized for insane replayability, as the map is randomized every round and the roles are as well, providing a never boring online SCP experience.”
“The game’s procedural generation of levels ensures that no two playthroughs are the same, which adds a layer of unpredictability and replayability.”
“The game has only one real flaw: there is no real replayability in the game.”
“This game is very fun for newer players but as you get too used to the game it just gets too lackluster. The thing that makes this game enjoyable is the community, but without any new updates adding any new SCPs, it's been kind of meh and boring after 300 hours.”
“Ultimately the argument of going competitive versus keeping things goofy is another subjective one, as the game is still growing in popularity regardless. However, between lower replayability, toxic communities, and unfriendly devs, I view the game fundamentally different in 2023 than I have in 2020 in a bad way.”
- grinding194 mentions
- 2 % positive mentions
- 78 % neutral mentions
- 20 % negative mentions
The reviews overwhelmingly indicate that grinding in the game is excessive and often tedious, with many players feeling it requires an unrealistic time commitment, likening it to needing "a second life." While some mention that grinding can be a bit manageable or necessary for leaderboard progression, the general sentiment leans towards it being a frustrating aspect that detracts from overall enjoyment.
“You'll need a second life for grinding.”
“A bit grindy sometimes.”
“One long, tedious grind.”
“The gameplay of Secret Lab has grown tedious since the 11.0 update, staying alive has become borderline impossible without an SCP or a guy with a gun murdering everyone in the first seconds of the game, and waiting a whole 5 minutes for a respawn for the same process to happen...”
“It's as if the characters have been injected with molasses, moving at a snail's pace and turning even the most thrilling moments into dull, tedious affairs.”
“This is easily one of the shittiest games that you can find, sluggish and grindy movement, poor gunplay, and has a lack of necessary informational icons to let you know what's happening in your own game.”
- emotional110 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The emotional aspect of the game is a complex blend of humor, horror, and heartfelt moments, leading players through an emotional roller coaster that includes laughter, tears, and intense drama. Many users highlight the game's ability to foster emotional attachments to teammates and the community, often oscillating between wholesome interactions and toxic behavior. Overall, players report a unique experience that evokes a wide range of emotions, making it both memorable and impactful.
“I cried in a corner while I heard my friends dying one by one.”
“This game has made me feel heartbreak, trauma, relief, despair, and power all within the time frame of 5 rounds.”
“You will live through the most stressful and also the most wholesome moments in your life while playing this masterpiece.”
- monetization69 mentions
- 14 % positive mentions
- 61 % neutral mentions
- 25 % negative mentions
The game is praised for its truly free model, with no microtransactions or in-game purchases, providing an equal experience for all players. Reviewers appreciate the absence of pay-to-win mechanics and excessive monetization, highlighting it as a refreshing change in the gaming landscape. However, some concerns have been raised about potential future monetization plans, which could affect the game's integrity.
“It's a fantastic game without any microtransactions, and you won’t regret it.”
“What an amazing game, most fun I've ever had, 100% free, no microtransactions, just pure fun with friends.”
“One of the best free multiplayer games out there with zero microtransactions, which not very many exist nowadays.”
“The developer obviously wants to turn this into some pointless cash grab.”
“Trust me, it's such a cash grab with the in-game transactions and the lack of diverse servers for people with different interests.”
“Devs have been teasing a megapatch for over a year and have mentioned adding loot boxes or some type of monetization to the game because 'it's what everybody is doing now'.”
- character development9 mentions
- 44 % positive mentions
- 22 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
Character development in the game is a mixed bag; while many players appreciate the unique and detailed character designs, including notable appearances and abilities, some feel that the lack of deeper character development detracts from the overall experience. The graphics and design are praised, but there are calls for improvement in the stability and refinement of character models. Overall, the potential for engaging character interactions exists, but it is not fully realized.
“The detailed character designs, including the unexpected appearances of Rick May and Payton Harold, contribute to the game's unique charm.”
“Good character designs; each character has something unique that they can do, and you can really get into the characters.”
“Met a guy named Biggie Cheese, and me and him had character development until he got shot by MTF.”
“No character development is also a very lacking factor that killed the experience for me, personally.”
“It is a very good game, has a lot of room for improvement though, the game is also not that stable, character designs need to be revised.”
“Met a guy named Biggie Cheese and me and him had character development until he got shot by MTF.”
