Call of Cthulhu – Switch Review

Paying homage to H.P. Lovecraft's cosmic horror has become something of a trend in gaming, but few titles truly embrace the madness quite like Cyanide Studios' "Call of Cthulhu." In a landscape where some games merely nod to Lovecraftian lore, this title dives deep into the eldritch abyss, emerging as a compelling experience from beginning to end.

Stepping into the shoes of Edward Pierce, a haunted former soldier turned private investigator, players embark on a chilling journey into the enigmatic town of Darkwater. The game meticulously crafts an oppressive atmosphere, capturing the essence of Lovecraft's works. What sets "Call of Cthulhu" apart is its emphasis on detective work. Edward's skills can be honed, and choices matter, impacting the unfolding narrative. Conversations are not mere dialogue trees; they are intricate puzzles where the wrong move can lead to unexpected consequences.

Unlike conventional protagonists with military backgrounds, Edward is not a fighter. Instead, players must navigate tense situations through investigation and dialogue, subverting expectations in a refreshing manner. The game's reconstruction system, reminiscent of "Detroit: Become Human," adds depth, allowing players to piece together events and choices, creating a tangible impact on the story.

In true Lovecraftian fashion, the game introduces a sanity mechanic, an enigmatic feature that subtly influences the narrative. Your choices, interactions, and confrontations shape Edward's fragile mind, affecting the game's outcome. While the full extent of the mechanic remains shrouded in mystery, it adds layers to the experience, encouraging players to delve deeper into the darkness.

"Call of Cthulhu" isn't without its flaws, though. Inconsistencies in voice acting and occasional awkward animations surface, but they seldom detract from the overall immersion. The plot takes its time to unfold, but patience is rewarded with a gripping crescendo of horror and suspense. Some loose ends in character arcs leave room for improvement, but they don't overshadow the game's strengths.

Despite these minor hiccups, "Call of Cthulhu" captivates players with its captivating narrative, eerie ambiance, and a genuinely Lovecraftian sense of dread. The game's quirky charm, combined with multiple endings, makes it highly replayable. Embrace the madness and guide Edward Pierce through a different set of horrors; you might find the journey even more enthralling the second time around.

Final Score: