Stifled for Mac

Echolocation horror game

Stifled is a video game developed by Gattai Games. This is a single-player, first-person adventure game that will have you navigate your environment through sound. It features unique echolocation-based graphics and comes with innovative microphone-enabled gameplay.

Stifled is a horror game that brings a mix of atmospheric puzzle, horror, and stealth game elements. Much of the story takes place in total darkness, and the only way to see is to make a sound. However, despite its unique premise, the game suffers from the repetitive level design. Like other horror games, the story also takes a backseat to the gameplay. 

See with sound

In Stifled, you play through the traumatic life of David Ridley as his mind slowly deteriorates due to grief. As mentioned, it takes you to a completely dark environment. However, unlike other similar games, you won't be exploring through your eyes primarily. The sound of your voice and the characters' footsteps are also important as every sound you make lights up the map for an instant, allowing you to see.

Be warned, though. In this game, sound is your best friend and your worst enemy. It is a double-edged sword that will also attract the monsters lurking within the dark world. Wrongly-timed noise can cost you your life. However, the enemies do not have any inherent AI and literally chase sound. With this, you can easily manipulate them to evade getting killed. However, that needs learning.

More than the rigidity of the enemies, the game also suffers from the repetitive level design. Sure each level takes place in a different location, but its structure remains the same. Additionally, the game alternates between a dark map and a well-lit location. The echolocation only works in the dark world. Moreover, there are no enemies in the non-echolocation stages. The game is essentially a walking simulation during that part.

Unique but flawed

Overall, Stifled is a game that brings its own flair to the stealth horror genre. Its story is typical of horror games but its use of echolocation for navigation makes it unique. Adding monsters that chase any sound it hears also makes the experience more nerve-wracking. That said, this unique core gameplay mechanic seems underutilized. The repetitive design of the levels minimizes the horror impact of the gameplay.