Developed and published by Headware Games, Hollowbody is a Silent Hill 2-esque third person survival horror game.
Hollowbody’s initial release coincided with the announcement of Silent Hill 2’s remake and at the time this nostalgia bait had many cravings satisfied.
Now, with the Silent Hill 2 out, the question arises if Hollowbody still gives any reason to push that buy button.
Sorry Hero, your princess is in another castle
The plot of HollowBody is of a girl looking for her sister in a disease ridden and abandoned city. The relationship of the two sisters is kept at the forefront of everything that happens in this game. It is the main motivation that has led us to this destroyed and abandoned world that is seconds from complete collapse.
Every now and then our Miss MC finds telephones. These phones would have a very creepy voice talk to us, often calling us a murderer or a liar or something along the lines. You can already imagine where this is going but I won’t say the big spoiler bit.
Unlike Silent Hill, the setting of Hollowbody is an incredibly striking post-cyberpunk city that truly stands out. Every moment spent exploring this vibrant yet eerie environment feels immersive and captivating.
At times, it might feel like you’re simply wandering through a walking simulator, but that’s far from a negative. The atmosphere is so rich and intense that even casual exploration is rewarding. The tension that hangs in the air keeps you on edge, ensuring that every corner you turn could lead to something surprising or unsettling.
This combination of breathtaking visuals and gripping atmosphere makes traversing the city a joy, even if the focus is not always on action. In essence, the journey itself becomes a significant part of the experience, drawing players deeper into the haunting world of Hollowbody.
Silent Hill clone?
No need to mince any words, HollowBody is a deliberate #Homage to the early Silent Hill games.(especially Silent Hill 2) But that is not where it all ends.
Looking beyond the nostalgia factor, it’s important to recognize the strong gameplay choices that Hollowbody offers. The setting of an abandoned post-cyberpunk city, filled with disease and decay, creates one of the most captivating atmospheres I’ve experienced in a game for quite some time. This unique environment draws you in, making every corner of the city feel rich with story and tension.
The controls in Hollowbody are notably smooth and responsive, allowing players to navigate the unsettling landscape with ease. While the game draws inspiration from Silent Hill, it manages to capture that essence without feeling clunky or awkward. This fluidity enhances the overall experience, making it easier to immerse yourself in the eerie world.
When it comes to combat, the mechanics feel weighty and impactful, adding to the thrill of each encounter. There’s a genuine sense of reward when you find yourself in a tight spot and manage to escape using just a single bullet and a sliver of health. These moments keep the adrenaline pumping and make each victory feel hard-earned, adding depth to the gameplay that keeps you coming back for more. Overall, Hollowbody masterfully combines atmosphere, controls, and combat, creating a truly memorable experience.
Worth the Try!
If this review did not spell it out for you, I liked this game. However, I also really liked Silent Hill 2 OG and am a little iffy on the new one.
Hollowbody is more than just a nod to classic horror; it combines storytelling, atmosphere, and gameplay in a way that appeals to both newcomers and long-time fans. If you’re looking for a gripping horror experience that keeps you on your toes, this is a game you shouldn’t miss.
