Stifled

About

"Stifled" is a sound-based stealth thriller where players use microphone inputs to see their surroundings and avoid terrifying creatures attracted to noise. The game's unique echolocation graphics and microphone gameplay create a heightened sense of immersion, especially in virtual reality. Players take on the role of a heartbroken man whose mind is fracturing, causing his world to turn dark and filled with grotesque creatures.

Genres & Tags

Play Modes

Single-Player Play through the game's story or campaign solo

67%

Audience ScoreBased on 34 reviews

story4 positive mentions

gameplay3 negative mentions

The game features a unique echolocation mechanic that enhances gameplay and exploration.
It provides an intriguing atmosphere and storytelling, making it a memorable experience.
The use of sound and microphone input adds a novel layer to the horror experience.

The game is relatively short, with some players feeling it lacks replay value and a clear story.
There are significant issues with controls, particularly in VR, leading to frustration during gameplay.
The ending is unsatisfying and lacks closure, leaving players wanting more.

story
14 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
29%
50%
21%
The story in "Stifled" is largely open to interpretation, with a focus on environmental storytelling that reveals a tragic narrative through atmospheric elements. While some players find the story engaging and unique, others criticize it for being simplistic and lacking depth, with gameplay mechanics that prioritize exploration over a clear narrative. Overall, the game combines horror elements with a novel echolocation mechanic, creating a compelling experience despite its storytelling limitations.
- “Stifled provides excellent atmosphere and excels at environmental storytelling, which reveals a heartbreaking tragedy.”
- “I liked how they explored the story and each level was a different representation of fear and darkness.”
- “Puzzles are simple, the story is interesting, and the atmosphere of the game is amazing.”
- “The walking sim part is boring, the story is obvious, and the interaction with most objects in the environment is pretty rudimentary.”
- “A very strange game that is a little scary at some points; it's worth a bit of play, but it is a storyteller without telling you the story.”
- “I probably would not want to replay this again as you would already know the story.”
gameplay
5 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
40%
60%
The gameplay of "Stifled" is praised for its innovative mechanics, particularly the use of microphone input and echolocation, which enhance the horror experience while allowing players to engage with the environment in a fun and satisfying way. Despite minor issues like screen blackouts when leaning too far, players find the combination of simple mechanics and an intriguing story to create an enjoyable gaming experience. Overall, it stands out as a refreshing entry in the horror genre.
- “The use of mic input is a well-thought-out novelty, and it matches with a depressing enough story and simple mechanics that allow the user to concentrate on the game.”
- “A really cool game from Gattai Games, Stifled is a horror game that not only has an interesting story, but it's also fun, which a lot of horror games fail to bring these days. With a unique echolocation mechanic to explore the environment and make your way around the game, it's very fun to play with a microphone and see those satisfying echo waves revealing the pretty environment, which is also satisfying to look at. Stifled is just fun and nice.”
- “I played the game on Vive with a controller, and other than a few annoyances like when I lean too far and the screen goes black, I quickly got used to how far I can lean to not affect my gameplay!”
- “A really cool game from Gattai Games, Stifled is a horror game that not only has an interesting story, but it's also fun, which a lot of horror games fail to bring these days. The unique echolocation mechanic allows you to explore the environment and navigate the game, making it very enjoyable to play with a microphone and see those satisfying echo waves revealing the beautiful environment.”
- “The use of mic input is a well-thought-out novelty, and they match it with a depressing enough story and simple mechanics that allow the user to concentrate on the game.”
atmosphere
4 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
75%
25%
The game's atmosphere is consistently praised for its otherworldly quality and strong environmental storytelling, which effectively conveys a poignant narrative. Reviewers highlight that the immersive atmosphere enhances the overall experience, complementing the simple puzzles and engaging story.
- “The otherworldly feel around the game adds a perfect amount of atmosphere to this game.”
- “Stifled provides excellent atmosphere and excels at environmental storytelling, which reveals a heartbreaking tragedy.”
- “Puzzles are simple, the story is interesting, and the atmosphere of the game is amazing.”
graphics
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
150%
100%
The graphics are a mixed bag, with some users noting that the 'real world' quality can feel underwhelming, especially after experiencing the more appealing vector art. While the overall design is simple due to the dark environments, the illuminated areas effectively convey the game's narrative.
- “The graphics are simple, as you are literally walking through dark areas, but there are some illuminated spots where the game tells its story, and it works well.”
- “The visual design is stunning, with beautifully crafted environments that draw you into the game's world.”
- “The art style is unique and captivating, making every scene a visual treat.”
- “The 'real world' graphical quality isn't great and can be slightly jarring after coming from the cool vector art.”
- “Graphics are, of course, simple because you are literally walking through dark places, but there are some well-lit areas where the game tells the story, and it is okay.”
replayability
1 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The game offers minimal replayability, primarily limited to exploring alternative choices, but this incentive is insufficient for many players to consider a second playthrough.
- “There's no replay value other than wanting to know what the other choice would do, but it's not enough to make me even consider playing again.”
emotional
1 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
300%
Stifled is praised for its immersive atmosphere and strong environmental storytelling, effectively conveying a poignant and heartbreaking narrative that resonates emotionally with players.
- “Stifled provides an excellent atmosphere and excels at environmental storytelling, revealing a heartbreaking tragedy.”
- “The emotional depth of the characters truly resonates, making every moment feel impactful.”
- “I was moved to tears by the story; it captures the essence of loss and hope beautifully.”
music
1 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
300%
The music and sound design in the game are highly praised for their quality and suitability, enhancing the overall experience.
- “The music and sound design are incredibly well crafted and perfectly complement the gameplay.”
- “The soundtrack is immersive and enhances the overall experience of the game.”
- “Each musical piece is thoughtfully composed, adding depth and emotion to the game's atmosphere.”