Pros:
- Unique reload system that adds tension to combat encounters.
- Interesting asphyxiation mechanic which I think has a lot of potential for the story.
- Good use of certain fixed camera angles for effective jumpscares.
Neutral:
- The visuals, while it evokes a retro and nostalgic style, don't do much in terms of building the atmosphere for me.
- The health item/soda system has the clever effect of making sure players are never soft locked because they will always have full healing items on any save file. But on the other hand, it also lowers tension and disincentivizes players from exploring because there isn't any real gameplay benefits from doing so, considering there are unlimited tazer ammo and no health items outside of the save room. Though this is just a preference thing.
Cons:
- A lot of the camera placement are incredibly disorienting. I would constantly move forward only to be turned around because the cameras are placed at awkward angles which is frustrating during combat encounters. It also makes navigating the map very confusing, as I would often lose track of where exactly I am. My suggestion would be to make the camera placements and transitions more seamless, or add a classic RE/SH tank control option.
- The asphyxiation mechanic, while interesting conceptually, doesn't really make sense in practice to me. I just can't see why the character has to hold her breath to climb over a desk or how it allows her to predict where the teleporting guy will appear. Maybe once the story is fleshed out it will make more sense, but right now it seems a bit contrived.
Overall, this demo shows potential and I would really like to see more interesting gameplay scenarios and where the story goes in the full game.