Vlad Circus: Curse of Asmodeus does a great job of prequeling and sequeling its predecessor. This may be a confusing statement, but this title plays with multiple timescales and a healthy dose of amnesia. Accordingly, it can pretty much do what it wants. Furthermore, it has some wonderfully grim moments as the story unfolds.
This puzzle adventure game was developed by Indisruption and published by Blowfish Studios. It is a single-player, side-scrolling affair. Moreover, it has plenty of fetch quests and old-school puzzle elements to appeal to an older generation. However, at its core is a great story and some sinister moments.
Vlad Circus: Curse of Asmodeus is a family affair.
If you’ve played the previous Vlad game, you’ll recognise many of the key players. However, if this is your first jaunt into this seedy world, it matters not. You are not penalised for a lack of knowledge or understanding. Instead, you can piece together the story with blissful ignorance.
You play the part of Josef Petrescu. He is the brother of Vlad and has awoken in a “hospital” with terrible injuries. His disfigured form disgusts him, but it is the gentle reminders of his previous life that haunt him more. Asmodeus is portrayed as a parasite that infects humans. The only way to remove it is through fire and torture. Accordingly, there are plenty of victims who may or may not survive.
A combination of 2 worlds.
The grim story unfolds horribly. As the truth is revealed, you’ll be repulsed. The hero stomachs every snippet of information as they live through 2 unique worlds. The past is blurry, unfair, and often surreal. Clues, friendships, and explanations must be found as you explore your surroundings.
Modern-day living isn’t much better. Josef is an outcast from his brother’s circus. However, he needs help if he is to move on and come to peace with his existence. This leads the protagonist down a dark path of realisation.
If you can handle the twisted and uncomfortable imagery and gameplay, you’ll enjoy classic puzzle mechanics. Grabbing items, combining them, and unlocking new paths are essential elements. Furthermore, you’ll need to be aware of your surroundings as rats, gas, and other obstacles will cause you irreversible damage.
Vlad Circus: Curse of Asmodeus is a pixelated masterpiece.
People say that pixel games are lazy. However, I totally disagree. Vlad Circus: Curse of Asmodeus blends horrific colours with daunting images. Furthermore, the claustrophobic spaces, unique areas, and interesting puzzles create a tough-to-stomach game.
The audio enhances the horror edge. Atmospheric music drives home the horrible story. Additionally, uncomfortable ambient sounds and strange noises fill the silence. The result is a game that never lets you take a breath.
Excellent controls.
Though the action is relatively refined and easy to follow, finding items and reading information could have been terrible. Thankfully, the excellent controls and simple UI make Vlad Circus: Curse of Asmodeus a joy to play.
Where this falls short is longevity. Around 7 hours will get you everything completed. This was a little light for my liking, and I wanted much, much more. However, the dark imagery and sinister story can be oppressive, so maybe less exposure is a good thing.
Vlad Circus: Curse of Asmodeus is wonderfully grim.
If you loved the original, you’ll adore this awfully cruel sequel. The story is grim, and the visuals are uncomfortable. Furthermore, solving every problem is rewarding. Accordingly, I love it and recommend buying it here! Can you piece together the clues and restore your memory? Explore the world, understand your mind, and maintain your sanity.
