there wasn't an evident threat. the storyline was lackluster - if put in a position of caring for a young child it is unrealistic that one would leave them alone to go to the neigbours (especially when he is very afraid and there is a "threat"). regarding the threat - by having the young boy tell the player that he was just playing pranks, the threat dissipates, but does not return. i personally would have wanted to see the 'smiling man' or some eminent threat (e.g., the neighbours door partially unlocked and a glimpse of the bodies). furthermore, the use of the black screen with text disconnects the player and disruptes the flow. 'show don't tell' - i think the game would have been better executed utilising this concept.