Dead Format

Dead Format is a unique and entertaining game that does a good job at standing out from its contemporaries in the survival horror genre, which is hard to do with the proliferation of Resident Evil-likes. Conversely, while the atmosphere is great, in my view, the enemy AI and a repetitive gameplay loop have kept this game from its true potential. If you’re on the lookout for an inexpensive 3-8 hour horror-action experience with character, then I’d say it’s worth a punt.

Dead Format is, quite simply, a title that leaves an impression—though not always a positive one in the traditional sense. It isn’t perfect, it isn’t technically stunning, and it’s definitely not for everyone. Yet it offers something that isn’t always a given in the horror genre: a strong artistic vision and a willingness to experiment. This game will be most appreciated by players who enjoy a slow pace, ambiguous storytelling, and an atmosphere that builds gradually. If you’re expecting an action-packed horror game full of combat, Dead Format will likely disappoint you. But if you’re looking for an unsettling, disturbing experience that will linger with you even after you turn off the game, this title is the right choice for you.

Dead Format is clearly inspired by classic horror games and film, blending both in a visually striking manner. Though it has room for improvement, the potential is there, and it's overall a fun time.

Dead Format starts off strong with the mystery and worlds, but quickly ends up tedious and the story lacking. Which does suck some of the fun. The stalker is too aggressive at times, and with the amount of portals for her to enter the world from, it seems rather annoying to avoid. Especially during the end segments of the game. I’d probably say the highlight of Dead Format is definitely in the presentation, rather than its game-play. Although the game-play is fun with the minor puzzle moments it has. Yeah, I Would suggest checking Dead Format out, as the game has a noticeable amount of love in it. And I feel it deserves the Thumb Culture Gold Award.

Dead Format is host to excellent ideas. The “haunted VHS” concept of opening up new worlds to explore sounds genuinely exciting in theory. To add to this, Katanalevy has a masterful grasp on the aesthetics of the past, using the constraints of VHS and film to create a genuinely unsettling atmosphere, but the poorly implemented stalker mechanic drags the experience down.

There are glimmers of brilliance in Dead Format, and a lot of it shines through. Unfortunately, the whole thing is uneven. Parts of it needed more refinement, or rather, needed to be rethought. Just brought entirely back to the drawing board. It’s breaking my brain trying to reconcile the high highs and low lows. I’d like to compare it to a B-movie, but it’s difficult. It’s mostly like Street Fighter: The Movie where I’m glued when Raul Julia is on-screen and then pull out the Rubik’s Cube every time he isn’t.