The Inpatient for PlayStation 4 is a VR experience that invites players to step into the eerie yet captivating world of Blackwood Sanatorium. Developed by Supermassive Games, this prequel to the acclaimed Until Dawn transports players back over 60 years, enveloping them in a twisted web of intrigue and mystery. With its deep immersion and captivating storytelling, The Inpatient offers a tantalizing glimpse into the past, allowing players to assume the role of an amnesiac patient as they unravel the secrets of their identity.
While the concept of The Inpatient is undeniably fascinating, the execution falls short of its potential. The game's branching narrative and multiple endings promise a captivating experience, but unfortunately, the choices offered often feel inconsequential, failing to leave a lasting impact. This lack of agency may disappoint players yearning for a truly immersive and choice-driven adventure.
One of the undeniable strengths of The Inpatient lies in its nostalgic atmosphere, which pays homage to classic horror games of yore. The meticulously crafted settings of Blackwood Sanatorium exude a chilling ambiance reminiscent of iconic survival horror franchises. From the flickering lights to the unsettling soundscape, the game masterfully transports players back to the golden era of horror gaming, invoking a sense of nostalgia that will resonate with retro gaming enthusiasts.
However, this alluring retro charm cannot fully compensate for the game's shortcomings. The Inpatient fails to capitalize on its potential for psychological horror, relying heavily on jump scares and predictable tropes instead. While these moments may offer brief thrills, they ultimately detract from the overall immersion, undermining the game's ability to truly terrify players.
In terms of gameplay, The Inpatient brings both highs and lows. The exploration segments offer a welcome opportunity to fully immerse oneself in the haunting environments, leaving no stone unturned in the search for clues. However, these moments of exploration are regrettably interspersed with tedious walking segments that serve little purpose other than to elongate the game's runtime. This pacing issue hampers the game's overall enjoyment and can lead to frustration or disinterest.
In conclusion, The Inpatient for PlayStation 4 demonstrates great potential but falls short of achieving its intended impact. While its nostalgic atmosphere and immersive setting provide glimpses of retro gaming glory, the game is let down by its lackluster narrative choices and reliance on predictable scares. Retro gaming enthusiasts may find brief moments of enjoyment, but overall, The Inpatient fails to live up to the expectations set by its prequel, Until Dawn. With a rating of 3/10, it is advisable to approach this VR experience with tempered expectations.
