Scorn (Computer)
Official GBAtemp Review
Product Information:
- Release Date (NA): October 14, 2022
- Release Date (EU): October 14, 2022
- Publisher: Kepler Interactive
- Developer: Ebb Software
- Genres: Horror, puzzle
- Also For: Xbox Series X|S
Game Features:
“An object of extreme disdain, contempt, or derision.” This is one of the definitions of the noun scorn on Merriam-Webster; and this word has been appropriated as the title for Serbia-based Ebb Software’s fist title. Not a very auspicious nomenclature but Scorn the game isn’t meant to be a feel-good title. From the opening sequence through its five acts, the tone of the game and the tribulations our protagonist has to go through are a perpetual reminder of that.
But since its release, the literal definition of the noun scorn has seeped into the definition of Scorn the game itself. I’ve seen several comments and reviews highlighting the lack of clear direction or plot and an unbalanced combat mechanic. Without much of a backstory, Scorn throws you into the thick of things. The only thing that’s somewhat guiding is that you were on your way to a tower when you encountered an accident and need to find a way back there.
The journey will have our protagonist traverse the underground, barren lands and even the inside of a monster while solving puzzles and fending off otherworldly creatures. But that journey is a silent and often lonely one, with only the environment to tell the story of your location and to hint at your progress.
Such hints aren’t often very clear however, which can lead to some understandable frustrations. I often found myself just trying every glowing element until I could actually interact with one and see what it does. The game is laden with such instances of trial-and-error as its alien universe does not offer any written or audio cues, let alone tutorials in tackling its challenges. While not traditional game design choices and understandably divisive, I give it to the developers for being bold with their approach.
What is also strikingly bold is the biomechanical universe itself. Practically every scene looks and feels like a painting and evokes a sense of awe with the amount of detail laden within. Visually, the universe indeed does justice to its H. R. Giger inspirations with biological parts merging seamlessly with mechanical contraptions to make for a truly alien-scape. The animations, whether it’s for retrieving a key or performing a more gruesome act, are singular - even if sometimes recurring - and offer an amalgam feeling of gruesomeness and awe that bring the peculiar universe to life.
This is supplemented by the haunting, droning soundtrack which adds to the sense of uncertainty and ambiance of horror. And scorn is full of horror, mostly repulsive body horror, but also horrific creatures that, like most elements of the game, are hard to name or even describe. Indeed, interspersed between the puzzle solving and exploration segments, you’ll encounter inhabitants of the hellscape you’re venturing into. They can offer a considerable challenge given your limited ammo and often-underpowered weapons. The sense of being helpless is often felt and is probably one of the reasons attributed to the unfair combat.
However, combat isn’t actually encouraged in Scorn. As noted by YouTuber aleckermit, practically every creature follows a scripted path once you encounter them. You can wholly avoid combat by just backing up (or running away) and staying out of their vicinity and they’ll eventually crawl into a hole or nest, without bothering to chase you further. There are boss fights where you’ll have to actually engage in combat and they can be challenging but can be overcome by noticing the enemies’ patterns (recharging and such); and avoiding previous combat will help you save on the limited ammo. So really the approach in this alien land is mostly focused on avoiding combat and only taking up the arms when necessary or unavoidable. It's’ yet another bold approach to the gameplay that fuels the divisive reception of the title.
In a sense, the combat can be seen as another puzzle that populates the game. Figure out how to stay clear of a creature’s path and you’ll be able to move forward. Puzzles are indeed a major element of Scorn and are original, ranging from unlocking small doors to moving massive structures. However, some can prove to be unituitive tedious, if not monotonous. A sliding puzzle involving a crane from the first act clearly exemplifies this while the need to backtrack persists even in the fifth and final act.
Despite its occasional tedious puzzles and backtracking, Scorn stands out with its unique universe, singular animations and bold approach to its gameplay. It will surely remain divisive in its reception but this attests to its uniqueness. It’s not perfect but is worth trying out if you’re looking for something new; but be prepared to encounter some frustrating sessions. Luckily, it’s a rather short game lasting around 5 hours.
Scorn Official Launch Trailer
Verdict
- Captivating universe
- Bold approach to gameplay
- Mixture of fascinating and grotesque unique animations
- Backtracking
- Some unintuitive and tedious puzzles
- Divisive combat
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