Review: Shipwrecked Terminus is a reimagining of the widely acclaimed Shipwrecked 64 a couple years back that was not only a huge ARG/Analog Horror but one you can play yourself. It was very innovative and compelling and still holds up very well with how intricate and layered it's complexity in it's design demands the player to dig for the clues to solve the puzzle pieces in understanding this story.
Shipwrecked Terminus, while it may not retain those elements from the original, does a phenomenal job at capturing it's essence in a complete reimagined take on the pre-established media and lore surrounding it. It was eye-catching to see the polygonal graphics that we are used too, now rebuilt from scratch in new engine with a graphical overhaul that still encompasses the charm while still holding this foundation that is familial to the world of Shipwrecked.
I found the designs to be very appealing and cute in some instances but it wasn't enough to detract me from the subtle horror that is very much surrounding the player at every second. The subtle details in the environment are telling in how it can convey horror very well to remind you that the situation is psychologically tormenting with each step you take the more you venture into Broadside. I found much of the atmosphere ambient but in a horrific sense. It perfectly contrasts the eerie yet calm nature that could come off as safe but only for a moment.
Such instances like the other NPC's when you try to unravel what exactly is going on. They can become approachable due to their design that is appealing in their safety. But the dialogue is enough to come off as cryptic that gives this lonely dread and seeking more answers that yet to come.
Gameplay was barebones and simple, which may sound like a negative connotation but isn't necessarily a bad thing. Much like the original, it is very aligned in a puzzle-platformer masquerading as a psychological-horror game. The platforming is here and there but very simplified with grabbing ledges to higher platforms but without jumping. Puzzle solving is very complex and riddled with layers to understanding the process and figuring out a solution. It wasn't too needlessly difficult and felt rewarding at times (especially due to the Randomized puzzles alternating upon subsequent playthroughs) that allowed more variations to solve these puzzles. The use of sound and the environment was such a great detail that was appreciated that is done well and gives a sense of exploration.
The criticism that I have is directed toward the last section, 'Broadside Animation' as I felt it was too prolonged and filled with tedium with the hide and seek with Walter Walrus. On paper, it's an exhilarating-heart pounding event that is never-ending with only brief moments of serenity whilst hiding from the stalker enemy. And while this has plenty of advantages for the player, it feels tirelessly like a chore and much of a slog to have to go to Administration, figure out the room to insert the USB drive, solve a puzzle, run back to Administration, repeat. Having to do this process five times is asking a bit much, especially with the AI on Walter being very aggressive and always looming in your area. In some instances, it felt unfair when I felt like I underwent a task and then had to immediately run into Walter again. It was a cycle that saw me die many times and only made the sequence more tedious than scary, as it was initially presented to be. Please don't let these criticisms frame this as a negative connotation. I sincerely enjoyed this sequence, especially after finally finishing it without any deaths. But I do believe the problem here is pacing and letting the player have room to breathe. With some tweaking and balancing, I do think this sequence would be much more approachable without the tedium and still have that horrifying presentation.
Overall, I loved this reimagining to Shipwrecked 64. It does many creative liberties that pays homage to the original respectfully whilst also painting itself with it's own identity that feels like a companion piece that builds and expands upon the former with innovative gameplay, subtle yet haunting psychological horror, and a narrative that keeps you compelled to see what comes next.