The Shore is a Lovecraftian adventure with a wonderful artistic approach. However, a lack of substance and story hold it back from truly excelling. If this wasn’t bad enough, the short playtime and ill-considered gameplay mechanics give it a sense of failed opportunities. Yet, if you want a straightforward fantasy experience that looks fantastic, then this will pique your interest.
This walking simulation title was developed by Ares Dragonis and published by Dragonis Games. Moreover, it has a horror edge as you are chased by alien beings. This bizarre blend of ideas could have been fantastic. Unfortunately, though, it is too punctuated and bitty to deliver a seamless and enjoyable experience. Consequently, the action is frustrating and the once beautiful scenery becomes an unnecessary obstacle that generates frustration and anger.
The Shore tells a familiar tale in a cruel environment.
The story of a father’s love for his child is as old as the hills. No matter how many times you read about it, see it, or hear it, it always pulls at your heartstrings. Yet, placing this story in a Lovecraftian setting is somewhat cruel and perhaps a little unnecessary. Strangely, though, it works particularly well and I enjoyed this odd but captivating plot.
You play the part of Andrew. His daughter is missing, and he is determined to find her before it is too late. This harsh endeavour plays tricks on his mind and pushes his sanity to breaking point. As such, this is where the fantasy element comes into play. Additionally, the developer uses their creative licence to push the scenario beyond its normal limitations. Now, I’d normally scoff at such an unbelievable idea, but I was impressed with the absurdity of the situation and the excellent and overbearing world.
A game of 2 or maybe 3 parts.
I understand that a game may twist its core mechanics to keep its audience on edge. Strangely, though, The Shore effectively utilises 3 distinct approaches to deliver its story. This unusual idea doesn’t work and, instead of creating a sense of drama and energy, it delivers an underwhelming and confusing finished product. Additionally, it dumps each idea as it pushes to its horror-filled finale.
The opening chapter follows standard walking simulation tropes. Moreover, it blends in the odd sci-fi moment to maintain the fantasy edge. This was particularly enjoyable as it wasn’t outrageous, nor was it badly conceived. However, things soon take a turn for the worse as you learn to jump, only never to need the skill again. After this, there is a strange combat mechanic that blends running and shooting into one mishmash idea.
This faux-horror experience intends to generate fear and despair. Yet, the result is a clumsy race between human and alien. Moreover, the weapon is underpowered, and you never know whether you will kill your opponent or stun it. Subsequently, it is messy, disappointing, and feels like an afterthought.
The Shore looks amazing.
The Shore didn’t float my boat! However, visually, it is spectacular. The use of gargantuan alien beings and the incredibly sinister and strange environment are phenomenal. Additionally, when the exploration elements worked, it was fascinating to dive into such an unusual gaming arena. On top of this, the first-person perspective creates an immersive world that generates a sense of suspense and danger.
This is supported by the excellent soundtrack and the decent voice acting of the protagonist. The sound effects were equally impressive, even if some of the other sound bites were underwhelming and disappointing.
Trapped by a pebble or blocked by an invisible wall.
Navigating the alien environment wasn’t the easiest of tasks. Disappointingly, you’ll get stuck on pebbles and rocks. Alternatively, invisible walls would funnel you to your next port of call. This was particularly annoying once you learnt how to jump. I expected the world to become more open and vast. However, your progress is blocked by each invisible wall of doom. This was unfortunate as the world became a chore to explore.
Though it is punctuated by issues and shortcomings, The Shore is a short experience. You can complete this in around 3–4 hours even if you attempt to search every nook and cranny. To make matters worse, there is no reason to return and this undermines both replay value and longevity.
The Shore didn’t impress me.
As an artistic concept, The Shore excels! Its world and the depiction of a Lovecraftian theme are spectacular. Furthermore, when the audio works, it helps to create an immersive world that is great to be part of. Yet, there are so many shortcomings and issues that it ruins every positive element. Accordingly, I cannot recommend buying it. However, more information can be found here! Will you explore the strange world to save your daughter? Search your surroundings, uncover each mystery, and complete your journey.
