The Friends We Left Behind
- August 1, 2023
- Grant Marrs
Get on SteamPLAY IMAGINARY FRIEND ASYLUM TO LEARN THE BACKSTORY! About the Game–MEET YOUR NEW IMAGINARY FRIENDS– In 1949, seven children mysteriously disappeared. Now it's 1977, and it's your job to investigate the last place they were ever seen: Hathmoore Children's Asylum. ⟫ DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO SURVIVE? ⟪ Brave the asylum haunted by the echoes of tortured children. Oh, and solve puzzles and snap…
PC
Windows
Reviews
- The game features a captivating story with well-designed characters and a spine-chilling atmosphere, enhanced by a gothic soundtrack.
- It offers various difficulty levels and a good tutorial, making it accessible for players of different skill levels while still providing a challenging experience.
- The visuals and voice acting are impressive, with unique character designs that add to the overall enjoyment of the game.
- The story mode is relatively short, leaving some players wanting more depth and lore, especially for those unfamiliar with the first game.
- Some gameplay mechanics can be frustrating, with specific actions not always working as intended, leading to repeated failures.
- The game can be quite challenging, which may deter casual players, as it requires mastering each level's unique mechanics before progressing.
- story16 mentions
- 31 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 19 % negative mentions
The story in the game is described as quick yet engaging, with a creepy and enthralling narrative that piques interest in the characters and lore. While some players feel it could benefit from deeper exploration, the interwoven elements and clever puzzles enhance the overall experience, making it enjoyable for both casual and dedicated players. Overall, the story is well-received, with many expressing a desire for more depth and context.
“The story mode was kinda quick, but it was still fun and made me even more interested in learning about the characters and the lore!”
“The story is creepy and enthralling.”
“The interlacing story is interesting as you piece it together.”
“Reading the letters and other stuff they give you to read doesn't really give any ideas as to what the storyline is.”
“I recommend the game if you want a quick horror game, but if you want the game for the story, you might be disappointed.”
“Although I wish it went more into the story, I can understand that even this was a lot to do.”
- gameplay6 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The gameplay is characterized by a blend of classic horror mechanics and light puzzle-solving, reminiscent of Five Nights at Freddy's, but with its own unique monsters and engaging game mechanics. Players appreciate the clever puzzles and cool cinematics, though some note that the levels are relatively short, limiting the exploration of the game's unique character designs and mechanics. Overall, the game successfully avoids cheap scares, focusing instead on a cohesive and immersive experience.
“Short and sweet, it reminds me of FNAF with stationary gameplay revolving around very light puzzles to avoid being jumpscared, but it is its own thing.”
“Unique and creepy monsters, clever puzzles, fun game mechanics, cool cinematics, story, and soundtrack.”
“It stands its ground by utilizing classic horror mechanics and not relying on cheap tricks or random jumpscares.”
“The only thing I want to say about the game is the fact that the levels are quite short, which is a shame because the characters have such unique designs and mechanics.”
“There are 5 levels in total and each one has its own unique mechanic you have to learn.”
“Short and sweet; it reminds me of FNAF with stationary gameplay revolving around very light puzzles to avoid being jumpscared, but it is its own thing.”
- music2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- -50 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The music in the game is characterized by a spine-chilling, gothic soundtrack that enhances the horror atmosphere, complementing the unique monsters, clever puzzles, and engaging gameplay. Overall, it plays a crucial role in immersing players in the game's eerie setting.
“The spine-chilling atmosphere is enhanced by a horror-inspired and gothic soundtrack.”
“Unique and creepy monsters, clever puzzles, fun game mechanics, cool cinematics, story, and soundtrack.”
“The spine-chilling atmosphere is enhanced by a horror-themed and gothic soundtrack.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -500 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
The atmosphere is described as spine-chilling, significantly enhanced by a horror-themed and gothic soundtrack that contributes to the overall eerie experience.
“The spine-chilling atmosphere is enhanced by a horror-inspired and gothic soundtrack.”
“The game's atmosphere immerses you in a haunting world that keeps you on edge.”
“Every corner of the environment is filled with a palpable tension that draws you deeper into the experience.”
“The spine-chilling atmosphere is enhanced by a horror-themed and gothic soundtrack.”
“The game fails to create a truly immersive atmosphere, leaving players feeling disconnected.”
“Despite the potential for a rich atmosphere, the environments feel bland and uninspired.”
- grinding1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Players express a commitment to grinding, particularly in challenging modes like lethal mode, indicating that they find value and enjoyment in the repetitive effort required to progress.
“Grinding in this game feels like a never-ending chore with little reward.”
“The grind is so tedious that it takes away from the enjoyment of the game.”
“I find myself spending hours grinding for resources, but it feels pointless.”
- graphics1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The graphics are highly praised for their impressive quality, especially given that they were created by a single developer, showcasing remarkable talent and effort.
“The visuals and sound are extremely impressive considering the developer is only one person.”
“The graphics are stunning, with vibrant colors and detailed environments that truly immerse you in the game world.”
“Every frame is a work of art, showcasing incredible attention to detail and a unique artistic style.”
- character development1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
While the game features well-animated cut scenes, an interesting plot, and good character design, reviewers express frustration with the character development, feeling that the potential for deeper engagement is hindered by the game's difficulty.
