By Ben Wright (@iamzavagno | www.xgeeks.co.uk)
This review is spoiler-free.
Devil’s Hideout marks the fourth game I’ve played by Cosmic Void, also known as Aviv Salinas, and it’s clear that in just a handful of releases, he’s become one of my favourite indie developers. From the pixel art style and narrative themes to the cleverly designed puzzles, each element resonates with me on a deep level. These games aren’t just fun to play; they transport me back to my childhood days of point-and-click adventures. Playing them always feels special, and with Devil’s Hideout, Salinas has truly hit his peak – it’s an incredible achievement.
While the game is entirely its own, the horror influences in both the story and gameplay are evident. It pays respectable homage to classic horror properties while blending them seamlessly into its own twisted and unsettling narrative. Some references are more obvious than others, but even the overt nods add to the game’s charm and enjoyment. The game can be completed in under two hours, but if you take your time to explore and immerse yourself in its world and characters, you can extend the experience. The puzzles are never overly complicated, and thoughtfully designed to strike the perfect balance, making the game accessible to both veteran point-and-click fans and newcomers. The puzzle logic remains consistent throughout – challenging but never frustrating.
Visually, the art style is stunning, capturing dark, eerie environments with stunning precision. The use of a torch mechanic intensifies the exploration aspect, especially when paired with a few well-placed jump scares. Each character has a distinct design, and the overall aesthetic feels like an artistic signature of the creator, much like how you can instantly recognise a Tim Burton film, Cosmic Void’s games have a unique beauty and aesthetic that’s unmistakable. One standout detail is the subtle character movements during dialogue scenes, like seeing them breathe. While not essential, it adds a level of immersion that truly brings the characters to life.
It’s not just the visuals that shine – sound plays a huge role too! Eric Matyas’ score perfectly complements the visuals and narrative, creating a sinister, unnerving atmosphere throughout the game. The voice acting is equally impressive, with a full cast delivering standout performances. Ivy Dupler (Lauren) excels in the lead role, portraying empathy and determination that draws you into her character. The supporting cast, including Gerald Hill (Atticus), Thomas Pratar (Stranger), Savy Des-Etages (The Medium), and Joe Gaskill (Callum), adds depth to the experience, while the contributions of Sean Madsom (The Clown), Karenna Foley (Beth/Clerk), Emily Brewer (Ophelia), Luke Alphonso (News Reporter), and Max Herzfeld (Cultist) round off a wonderful and talented ensemble.
Does Devil’s Hideout offer replayability? Absolutely! I love that many of the achievements are intentionally vague, encouraging exploration and creative thinking. While I’ve uncovered some hidden achievements, I’m still missing a fair few, so I’ll be diving back in soon to unlock the rest. The combination of its gripping story and well-crafted design makes it especially enticing to revisit – this game is perfect for spooky season!
From its captivating narrative and beautifully dark visuals to the stellar voice performances, Devil’s Hideout is a chilling point-and-click horror adventure – best played with the lights off and the sound turned up…
X-Geeks 