SoulVoid [Review]

You can get SoulVoid at Itch.io

Soul Void is, as the author states “a short, 1-2 hour experience made as a proof of concept to test out GB Studio”, however, I found it to be quite intriguing, well-made little game. It is definitely short, but it still tells a story from beginning to end, includes quite a few mini-games and puzzles, and doesn’t feel “unfinished” in any way. It is quite solid little game.

Note: The only thing that is missing is music, however, it managed to create a creepy atmosphere for me without any soundtrack, and that definitely tells you something! Alternatively, you can also put on your favorite spooky or chill or whatever music you want while you play.

Now, what really is a Soul Void? For that we should firstly look at the fact that it was made in GB Studio – which is a  ‘free retro adventure game creator’, and so Soul Void definitely feels like one of those retro games. Graphic style is simple but still beautiful in my personal experience. We also want somewhat eerie, spooky art style as we are talking about a creepy game here, and it definitely managed to portray that. As I mentioned before, just the story and graphics itself managed to creep me out. We are not talking about jumpscares kind of horror game, but just a little something that makes you stop and wonder, rather than shock you, it puts you in the unfamiliar, creeped-out kind of mood.

The story itself, I feel it is very meaningful, and together with gameplay, hides many metaphors, as well – and for everyone, based on their own life experiences, it can mean something different, something more personal to them. But, let’s introduce the story at least somewhat –

Basically, we end up in this world, which we do not know what it is, and any explanations are vague, and in search for answers, reasons, and so on we enter the Soul Void.

Soul Void is a dangerous and most bizarre place. You will experience bizarre and shocking encounters, but also meet quite a few interesting characters on your way there. This little game, despite its shortness, is filled with interesting mini-games, creepy moments and visuals, and as it should – it keeps you unaware of what truly happened until the very end.

Soul Void, despite being a ‘proof of concept’ is definitely worth checking out, as well as its creator – if you enjoy the game, and other works of them, definitely support them. Seeing this little magnificent game that came from them using free software and their own skills, you can only imagine what amazing pieces could be made with the right budget.