Layers of Fear Review (2023)

Initial release date: June 15, 2023

Engine: Unreal Engine 5

Developers: Bloober Team, Anshar Studios

Platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X and Series S, Xbox One, Mac operating systems

Genres: Adventure game, Puzzle

Publisher: Bloober Team

"Review Copy Provided By Blooper Team"

When news broke of the Layers of Fear remake, I’ll admit, my eyebrow arched in skepticism. The old game still had my heart racing with its authentic scares. And with Bloober Team seemingly busy with the much-anticipated Silent Hill 2 remake, the timing felt curious. But having now journeyed through the dark and twisted hallways once more, I concede: they've absolutely nailed it.

One of the boldest moves in the 2023 version is its amalgamation of two cherished games: the original 2016 Layers of Fear and its 2019 sibling. Rendered exquisitely in Unreal Engine 5, the haunting atmosphere is reimagined and is a visual spectacle. With its gameplay reminiscent of 2014's PT and nuances of Amnesia, the new edition will have players traversing through spine-chilling settings, decoding eerie puzzles, and sidestepping the hair-raising entities that lurk in the shadows. The narratives have depth that’s commendable. You'll be torn between sympathizing with The Painter's tumultuous journey towards the elusive perfect portrait and The Actor's cinematic stardom, all while confronting the darkest corners of their psyche. And here’s where Bloober Team turns the creepiness up a notch: the introduction of 'The Writer'. This fresh narrative acts as a horror thread, intricately weaving all stories into a macabre tapestry that's reminiscent of classic horror anthologies.

For seasoned Layers fans, get ready to question everything you knew. Subtle (and not so subtle) changes breathe new life into familiar scares. The game's environments, now drenched in the realism offered by Unreal Engine 5, will have both returning fans and newcomers glancing over their shoulders in real life. This game is not just an experience; it's a steal. With four compelling narratives, numerous endings to discover, and an accessible price tag, Layers of Fear 2023 offers massive bang for your buck. My personal journey clocked in at a delightful 30 hours, but I'd wager newcomers might spend even more engrossed hours in its thrilling embrace. However, as with most things, it’s not without its imperfections. Some scares might feel repetitive over time, particularly when you realize the game’s forgiving nature with its checkpoint system. And while parts drawn from the inaugural game shine bright, it's the new narrative that solidifies the game's place as a modern horror icon.

The game’s tales, deeply rooted in the psyche of artistic perfection, seem to mirror the ethos behind this remake. Bloober Team, collaborating with Anshar Studios, is seemingly screaming, "Look at our evolution!" Through this reimagined nightmare, they’ve staked their claim as the rightful visionaries behind the awaited Silent Hill 2 remake. My initial reservations? Now transformed into pulsating anticipation.

Layers of Fear 2023 isn’t just another game on the shelf; it's an emblem of horror evolution. It's a testament to how remakes, when done right, can surpass their originals. Hats off, Bloober Team. I’m eagerly awaiting my next nightmare.