Disturbing first-person horror

Scorn is a premium first-person horror video game by developer Ebb Software. This macabre adventure is set in a biomechanical world that is both disgusting and disturbing. Inspired by the works of the late artist H.R. Giger, the game thrusts you into a deeply immersive, open-ended world that straddles multiple video game genres.

Early into development, Scorn was eerily similar to Doom 3, but has become entirely different down the line. It features gameplay elements from various genres, namely horror, first-person shooters, puzzle-solvers, and walking simulators, but never fully commits to a single one of them.

Presentation over gameplay

Scorn isn’t a shooter, a puzzle-solver, or a walking simulator. It isn’t a horror game either; not in a traditional sense. In this disturbing adventure, the gameplay is secondary while the presentation takes centerstage. It has an obsession with detail that is rarely seen in most horror game titles. The quality of visual and sound effects complement the intricate amalgamation of flesh and machine that makes up the game’s world.

This horror game doesn’t rely on age-old horror tricks such as jump scares, chase scenes, and QTE events. It doesn’t startle players, but makes them feel uneasy and disturbed by its living, breathing world that can only be described as alien. The world is composed of interconnected levels with a non-linear structure, each having its own story, puzzles, and characters. Players have different skills, weapons, and items to unlock.

The game has minimal UI elements. It doesn’t have cutscenes and much of the story is told through exploration and gameplay. Its atmosphere has a strong and disturbing characteristic that certainly isn’t made for everyone. It can feel too unnerving and disgusting at times. Another issue that can hold the game back is major performance issues that cause FPS drops even in high-end rigs.

Is it worth playing?

Scorn isn’t made for everyone, and it doesn’t have to be. It offers a unique experience; a fresh take on horror that not everyone, but many, will undoubtedly appreciate. The lack of commitment to any gameplay genre and serious performance issues can degrade the experience it offers, but these are minor problems compared to what the game tries to accomplish. Whatever kind of gamer you are, it’s worth a try.