Sorry We're Closed

The gameplay of "Sorry We're Closed" is a unique blend of classic survival horror mechanics reminiscent of titles like Resident Evil and Silent Hill, enhanced by innovative features such as the "third eye" mechanic that allows players to reveal hidden elements and weak points in combat. While some players noted occasional clunkiness and simplicity, the overall experience is engaging, with a satisfying combat system and a variety of puzzles that keep the gameplay fresh and enjoyable. The game's vibrant art style and strong narrative further complement its mechanics, making it a compelling choice for fans of the genre.

The music in "Sorry, We're Closed" has received widespread acclaim for its incredible soundtrack, which features a mix of ambient tracks and catchy boss themes, often incorporating unique elements like rap and pop. Players have noted that the music enhances the overall atmosphere and gameplay experience, making boss fights particularly memorable and engaging. Many reviewers expressed a desire to listen to the soundtrack outside of the game, highlighting its quality and the emotional resonance it brings to the narrative.

The graphics of the game have received widespread acclaim for their stunning and unique art style, which blends retro PS1 aesthetics with vibrant colors and intricate character designs. Reviewers highlight the game's ability to evoke nostalgia while maintaining a fresh and engaging visual identity, often comparing it to classic survival horror titles like Silent Hill and Killer7. The overall aesthetic, characterized by its queer themes and imaginative visuals, is celebrated as a standout feature that enhances the storytelling and gameplay experience.

Character development in the game is widely praised for its depth and uniqueness, with players highlighting the stunning and diverse character designs that enhance the storytelling experience. The art direction and character aesthetics are noted as standout features, contributing to a rich narrative filled with engaging conflicts and emotional arcs. Overall, the combination of captivating visuals and well-crafted characters creates a memorable and immersive gameplay experience.

The atmosphere of the game is widely praised for its immersive and captivating qualities, combining stunning visuals, a haunting soundtrack, and a unique art style that enhances the overall experience. Many reviewers highlight the game's ability to balance tension and humor, creating a rich environment that supports its themes, particularly its unapologetic queerness. While some critiques mention issues with gameplay or writing, the atmospheric elements consistently stand out as a major strength, contributing to a memorable and engaging experience.

The humor in the game is widely praised for its sharp wit and clever dialogue, seamlessly blending dark comedy with poignant moments. Players appreciate the unique character interactions and the balance between spooky and funny elements, which create an engaging and entertaining experience. Overall, the humor is described as both charming and thought-provoking, enhancing the game's narrative and character depth.

The emotional aspect of the game is widely praised for its depth and relatability, with players feeling deeply invested in the characters and their journeys. Reviewers highlight a blend of heartfelt, humorous, and poignant moments that create a touching narrative, often exploring themes of love, vulnerability, and personal struggle. The writing is noted for its emotional nuance, making the experience both engaging and memorable, resonating with players long after they finish the game.

Overall, the game's replayability is generally praised, with many players appreciating the multiple endings, side quests, and decision-making elements that encourage revisiting the story. However, some reviewers noted that the inability to skip dialogue can hinder the experience on subsequent playthroughs. Upcoming updates, such as a new game+ mode, are anticipated to enhance replay value further.

Players find the grinding aspect of the game to be a mixed experience; while some sections, like sidequests, are engaging and involve light problem-solving, others, particularly boss encounters and certain puzzles, can feel tedious and frustrating. The lack of save slots and the difficulty of executing specific actions contribute to a sense of grind, which detracts from an otherwise enjoyable gameplay experience. Overall, the balance between enjoyable content and tedious tasks leaves players with a bittersweet impression.

Overall, the game demonstrates impressive stability, running smoothly on both PC and Steam Deck with minimal glitches reported. While some users experienced occasional lag during combat, the developers are responsive to issues, contributing to a generally positive experience. Players have praised the game's performance, especially for a debut indie title.

The game "Sorry We're Closed" is noted for its smooth performance on the Steam Deck, providing a seamless experience throughout its approximately 7-hour playtime. However, some players feel that the game lacks engaging rewards, particularly in the survival horror genre, which could detract from overall enjoyment.