The Fabulous Fear Machine
- October 4, 2023
- Fictiorama Studios
- 14h median play time
The Fabulous Fear Machine features a unique pulp art style and some straightforward ideas that make it a wonderfully addictive strategy title.
Get on Steam"The Fabulous Fear Machine" is a single-player horror strategy game with an intriguing narrative and beautiful gameplay. As the Master of the Machine, generate fear by playing Legend cards, such as creepy stories, urban myths, and conspiracy theories, while managing resources and dispatching agents to new locations. With over 80 Legends to choose from, craft a custom blend of terror and evolve horror in this narrative-driven strategy game with pulp horror style.
Mac OS
PC
Windows
Reviews
- The game features a captivating pulp art style that enhances the storytelling and overall atmosphere.
- The narrative is engaging, with dark and twisted stories reminiscent of classic horror comics like Tales from the Crypt.
- Gameplay is addictive and offers a unique blend of strategy and resource management, keeping players invested throughout the short campaign.
- The game is relatively short, with most players completing it in under 10 hours, leaving them wanting more content.
- Some players found the gameplay mechanics to be simplistic and lacking depth, leading to a feeling of monotony.
- The tutorial can be overwhelming, and the game may not provide enough challenge for experienced strategy gamers.
- gameplay181 mentions
- 37 % positive mentions
- 59 % neutral mentions
- 4 % negative mentions
The gameplay is generally described as straightforward and accessible, with a mix of resource management and strategic decision-making that keeps players engaged, though some find it lacking in depth and variety. While the mechanics are easy to grasp and often introduce new elements to maintain interest, many reviewers note that the gameplay can become repetitive and is overshadowed by the game's strong narrative and artistic presentation. Overall, it offers a fun experience for fans of the genre, but may not satisfy those seeking more complex gameplay.
“Brilliant gameplay and storytelling; from the moment I first launched the game, I could not stop playing. After an uninterrupted 9 hours, I managed to finally finish it, and all I can say is I want more. The game has such a satisfying finish to each story, and the overarching plot is so good.”
“The gameplay is solid and entertaining - never too difficult, rarely too easy - and the graphics are magnificent.”
“The gameplay loop is somewhat similar to outbreak sims like Plague Inc., where you play as several tragically flawed and/or demented masterminds who use the fear machine to manipulate the local populace by spreading various conspiracy theories and urban legends.”
“Gameplay-wise, it feels like someone took 'Plague Inc.', slowed it down, and made it far too complicated.”
“I did not like the gameplay mechanics one bit; I found them tedious and ultimately boring.”
“The interesting aspects of the game quickly lose their flavor as the monotony takes hold over the game's mechanics.”
- story161 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 71 % neutral mentions
- 4 % negative mentions
The game's story is a standout feature, praised for its immersive and captivating narrative that blends elements of horror, mystery, and conspiracy, often presented in a comic book style. While some players found the campaigns short and the gameplay simplistic, many appreciated the unique storytelling and thematic depth, with a desire for additional content and expansions. Overall, the narrative is described as engaging and thought-provoking, effectively tying together the gameplay mechanics with a strong sense of style.
“A hidden gem of smart storytelling: immersive, replayable, and pleasingly pulpy.”
“Brilliant gameplay and storytelling, from the moment I first launched the game I could not stop playing. After an uninterrupted 9 hours, I managed to finally finish it, and all I can say is I want more. The game has such a satisfying finish to each story and the overarching plot that takes place is so good.”
“The story plays out like a comic book and is genuinely captivating.”
“Maybe things change after the first scenario, but I found the story to be less paranormal and purely conspiratorial.”
“It feels like an overlong demo for a full game (I expected the 'real story' to come after the three provided campaigns finished) but there is no full game.”
“The story is okay, albeit likely the weakest aspect.”
- graphics119 mentions
- 59 % positive mentions
- 39 % neutral mentions
- 3 % negative mentions
The game's graphics are widely praised for their captivating comic book aesthetic, drawing inspiration from classic horror comics like "Tales from the Crypt." Reviewers highlight the art style as a significant selling point, enhancing the narrative and gameplay experience, while also noting its ability to evoke a range of emotions, from fun to disturbing. Overall, the visuals are described as incredible, engaging, and a perfect fit for the game's themes, making it a standout feature.
“The gameplay is solid and entertaining - never too difficult, rarely too easy - and the graphics are magnificent.”
“The aesthetic is imitating classic horror comics like Tales from the Crypt and pulls that off remarkably well.”
“This game combines the best of both worlds: a captivating art style that transports you to a mesmerizing world and gameplay that keeps you engaged for hours.”
“Some of the art is properly disturbing, not graphic, just in what it conjures up in your head about myths and legends of fear.”
“From the art style to the campy, over-wrought dialogue to the rather shockingly gruesome violence in the inevitable twist ending, it all feels so damn authentic and true to that genre.”
“The art style is a huge plus, just make sure you are ready for some gore, because the game doesn't pull any punches.”
- replayability14 mentions
- 21 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 29 % negative mentions
Overall, the game's replayability is limited, primarily due to its short length with only three campaigns and a lack of additional modes like skirmish or freeplay. While some players appreciate the potential for completionist challenges, such as collecting classic horror comic cards, many reviewers express disappointment in the absence of more engaging mechanics or difficulty options to encourage multiple playthroughs. The strong narrative and unique style are praised, but they do not significantly enhance replay value.
“A hidden gem of smart storytelling: immersive, replayable, and pleasingly pulpy.”
“Only 3 campaigns, though there is replayability for those completionists who want to get all of the classic horror comic cards.”
“I could also see the potential of a custom campaign with a custom deck for replayability.”
“Game basically plays itself on normal, and I didn't see an option to play a 'hard mode' - if it gets unlocked after beating the game, I'll pass; there's basically no replayability as there are only 10 missions total (12 or 13 if you count the tutorial, which you shouldn't), and nothing like a 'skirmish' mode that I could see.”
“A strong focus on narrative and lack of interesting game mechanics offer little to no replayability.”
“Great game, easy to learn, good if you like darker stories, but after finishing the 3 campaigns there isn't much replayability. I was hoping for a freeplay/custom mode to play around with after I finished the campaigns; still, it was fun while it lasted.”
- atmosphere13 mentions
- 54 % positive mentions
- 38 % neutral mentions
- 8 % negative mentions
The game's atmosphere is widely praised for its unique blend of cartoonish aesthetics and creepy undertones, effectively evoking a pulp horror vibe reminiscent of classic B-movies and comic magazines. Reviewers highlight how this atmospheric depth enhances the storytelling and gameplay experience, making it a standout title in the strategy genre. Overall, the combination of engaging visuals and a haunting ambiance contributes significantly to the game's appeal.
“Atmosphere and aesthetic is what really makes this game special, though.”
“I’m not an RTS guy typically, but this game’s atmosphere, challenge, and story really got me hooked.”
“The comic style is amazing and manages to evoke the pulp atmosphere of the magazines of the time; it reminds me of Creepshow and other B-horror movies.”
“As cartoony and over the top as the atmosphere is, some of the stories and tactics emerging are gut-wrenchingly real.”
- humor8 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is a mixed bag; while some players find it funny and engaging, appreciating its clever storytelling and art, others criticize it for being overly simplistic and focused on mocking human flaws without delivering deeper insights. Overall, it seems to appeal to those who enjoy lighthearted, satirical takes on human nature, though it may not resonate with everyone.
“Funny and thoughtful story, nice game mechanics.”
“Bought on a whim not expecting much, but this is a funny little strategy game.”
“I'm not actually a 'Tales from the Crypt' guy, but even I could enjoy the humor and art.”
- music4 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game is highly praised for its seamless integration with the gameplay and art style, creating a cohesive experience. Reviewers also highlight the fitting and engaging quality of the voiceover and music, enhancing the overall atmosphere.
“The gameplay, art style, and music tie together beautifully.”
“The voiceover and the music are fitting and interesting as well.”
- grinding4 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Overall, players find the game to be challenging rather than grindy, though some express frustration with the gameplay mechanics, describing them as tedious and boring.
“I did not like the gameplay mechanics one bit; I found them tedious and ultimately boring.”
- emotional2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players report that the game effectively evokes a sense of unease, creating an emotionally charged atmosphere that enhances the overall experience. This unsettling feeling is perceived positively, contributing to the game's depth and engagement.
“The game made me feel genuinely uneasy a few times, but in a good way.”
Critic Reviews
The Fabulous Fear Machine Review – Produce a little Panic
The Fabulous Fear Machine is a phenomenal narrative-driven strategy game that should hook you on its stories and keep you interested with its brain-stimulating gameplay. The phenomenal art compliments every aspect of the game, from its uniquely presented levels to its fantastic writing. Give into your desire for power and spread a little fear with this rare and fantastic title.
90%The Fabulous Fear Machine review
The Fabulous Fear Machine features a unique pulp art style and some straightforward ideas that make it a wonderfully addictive strategy title.
90%The Fabulous Fear Machine Review – Scary Good
The Fabulous Fear Machine is the perfect game for the spooky season. Beautiful art, satisfying gameplay, and an engrossing story. Put a quarter in the slot and let’s make mischief happen!
90%
