Ontotis is a game that offers a lot of promise. However, its familiar and well-trodden approach will do nothing but anger veterans of the genre. I’d even hazard a guess that newbies will be annoyed by the flat gameplay and the lack of jump scares. In short, much of the action focuses on clichéd ideas. Furthermore, it leans heavily on its audio, creating an unfortunate imbalance.
This psychological horror title was published and developed by Xenoplasis Games. Additionally, it utilises a range of hidden object mechanics and some basic puzzle elements to add depth and excitement. Yet, these core principles do little to enhance an otherwise dull and short experience. At every turn, you are welcomed by eerie writing and some strange events. However, there is little to genuinely make you afraid and this was disappointing.
Ontotis tells a familiar tale.
You see this adventure through the eyes of Robert. He is a caretaker and is mourning the loss of his wife. As the autumn/winter season hits, he must look after a group of abandoned houses. Yet, this isn’t easy as a severe storm approaches, and he must lock down the final property. Things take a turn for the worse as he convinces himself that otherworldly elements are afoot! Furthermore, the image of a darkened entity sends shivers down his spine!
Though the opening 10 minutes of Ontotis will have you on the edge of your seat, the brown trouser risk dissipates very quickly. The opening moments are genuinely impressive, and I enjoyed settling into the story. Yet, once the initial impact passes, the drama fades away to nothing. Unfortunately, things don’t get any better as you explore your surroundings. The requirement to search drawers and open cupboards was dated and uninspiring. Matters were made worse when you ran out of batteries for your torch and were left fumbling around in the dark.
Plenty of silly moments.
The developer claims that this is an immersive and atmospheric game. Therefore, I expected to lose myself for hours. However, this wasn’t the case, as there are too many silly moments that break up the immersion. The idea that you must open new paths and unlock doors was interesting. Yet, I can’t help but think a lot of the core mechanics are ridiculous. The idea that the protagonist can’t use a broken axe because they are missing part of the shaft is borderline insane. Additionally, if you happen to run out of batteries, you are screwed.
The developers wanted to create a sense of urgency and drama, but it was stupidly silly. Moreover, the clichéd writing and uninspired messages written in blood were off-putting. If you then consider the occasional “spooky” moment, you simply laugh rather than run for the hills. Unfortunately, these basic ideas are the building blocks for every element, and they leave you wanting.
Ontotis is aesthetically pleasing.
I genuinely didn’t like much of the action. Yet, I cannot say the same about the visuals or the audio. The small game world was interesting to look at. Additionally, the claustrophobic space and occasionally weird goings-on match the intended genre. Moreover, the use of lighting was impressive when it worked. However, the limited settings will disappoint gamers who like to tweak things to their liking.
The audio is where Ontotis excels. The noise of the storm and the creak of floorboards and closing doors were impressive. When combined with the tight and uncomfortable spaces, it puts you on edge. Yet, the monotonous nature of the acting wasn’t so good. I wish the developers had focused on this element as it could have created something truly exceptional.
Occasionally clumsy controls.
Though Ontotis can be played using Steam Deck, it isn’t great. What’s more, I found the need to pick up small items to be fiddly and clumsy. However, the UI is well-considered, and the control layout is simple to understand. Therefore, though it wasn’t perfect, it is bearable.
Disappointingly, there are few reasons to return to this once you are done. On top of this, the short game time leaves little to be desired. If you want a lengthy and deep experience, then you will need to look elsewhere. Yet, if you are happy with a mindless endeavour, maybe this will tick that box.
Ontotis should have been better.
The developers played it safe, and it has unfortunately backfired. Not only is this uninspiring, but the clichéd action and poorly written story will leave you wanting. On top of this, it lacks any jump scares and once you settle into the action, you will feel uninspired. Consequently, I do not recommend buying it. However, more information can be found here! Don’t let your mind play tricks on you. Search the house, find each item, and solve the mystery.
