Close to the Sun Video Game Review: A Haunting Journey into Alternate History

Close to the Sun Video Game Review: A Haunting Journey into Alternate History

Introduction

Close to the Sun is a first-person survival horror adventure developed by Storm in a Teacup and published by Wired Productions. Released on April 28, 2020, for Microsoft Windows, and subsequently for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch, the game invites players into an alternate 19th-century world where technology has evolved beyond our wildest dreams. With a compelling story, atmospheric visuals, and a gripping narrative, Close to the Sun offers a unique and haunting experience for fans of the genre.

Story and Setting

Set in an alternate history where Nikola Tesla's technological advances have led to a sprawling, high-tech floating city called the Helios, Close to the Sun delivers a narrative steeped in intrigue and mystery. Players assume the role of Rose Archer, a journalist searching for her missing sister on the Helios. As Rose explores the massive and luxurious city, she uncovers disturbing secrets about the experiments conducted on board and the consequences of pushing technological boundaries.

The game's setting is both mesmerizing and eerie. The Helios, with its blend of steampunk aesthetics and futuristic technology, provides a richly detailed backdrop for the story. The grandeur of the city contrasts sharply with the horror elements, creating a visually stunning and unsettling atmosphere.

Gameplay

Close to the Sun focuses heavily on exploration and narrative rather than traditional survival horror mechanics. Players navigate through the Helios, solving environmental puzzles, uncovering hidden messages, and piecing together the story through notes and recordings scattered throughout the city.

The gameplay is largely linear, with occasional branching paths and choices that impact the story. The puzzles are well-integrated into the environment, requiring players to use their wits and observational skills to progress. The game’s emphasis on narrative and exploration ensures a deeply immersive experience, though some players might find the lack of traditional horror elements a bit underwhelming.

Graphics and Art Style

The visual design of Close to the Sun is one of its strongest aspects. The game features a striking art style that combines steampunk and futuristic elements, creating a visually rich and atmospheric world. The detailed interiors of the Helios, from opulent lounges to dark, shadowy corridors, are rendered with impressive attention to detail. The lighting and environmental effects contribute significantly to the game's eerie and immersive atmosphere.

The character models and animations are well-crafted, though the focus is more on the environment and atmosphere than on individual character interactions. Overall, the game’s art direction enhances the sense of isolation and dread that permeates the experience.

Sound and Music

The sound design in Close to the Sun is exceptional, with a haunting and atmospheric soundtrack that complements the game’s setting and tone. The music, composed by David Housden, enhances the suspense and emotional impact of the story, while ambient sound effects and voice acting contribute to the overall immersion.

The voice acting is generally strong, with a cast that brings depth and emotion to their roles. The combination of music, sound effects, and voice work helps to create a compelling and unsettling atmosphere that draws players into the world of the Helios.

Replayability and Content

Close to the Sun offers a single-player experience with a focus on story and exploration. While the game is relatively short, taking around 6-8 hours to complete, the engaging narrative and atmospheric design encourage players to fully explore the environment and uncover all the hidden secrets.

The game does not feature a traditional replayability structure, but the rich story and detailed world provide enough depth to warrant multiple playthroughs for players interested in uncovering all the lore and nuances of the Helios.

User Experience and Accessibility

The user interface of Close to the Sun is intuitive and user-friendly, with clear objectives and a straightforward inventory system. The controls are responsive and easy to master, allowing players to focus on the exploration and narrative aspects of the game.

Accessibility options are somewhat limited, with fewer settings for players with specific needs compared to other titles. However, the game’s design ensures that players can still enjoy the experience with minimal frustration.

Close to the Sun Video Game FAQ

Q1: What platforms is Close to the Sun available on?
Close to the Sun is available on Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch. It was initially released on April 28, 2020, for Windows, and later became available on other platforms.

Q2: What type of game is Close to the Sun?
Close to the Sun is a first-person survival horror adventure game. It focuses on exploration and narrative rather than traditional survival horror mechanics.

Q3: What is the setting of Close to the Sun?
The game is set in an alternate history where Nikola Tesla’s technological advancements have led to the creation of a massive floating city called the Helios. The city combines steampunk and futuristic elements, providing a rich and atmospheric backdrop for the story.

Q4: What is the main objective of the game?
Players control Rose Archer, a journalist searching for her missing sister on the Helios. The main objectives involve exploring the city, solving environmental puzzles, and uncovering the disturbing secrets behind the experiments conducted on board.

Q5: How does the gameplay work in Close to the Sun?
The gameplay focuses on exploration and puzzle-solving. Players navigate through the Helios, interact with the environment, and piece together the story through notes, recordings, and clues. The game is largely linear, with occasional branching paths and choices that impact the narrative.

Q6: What is the art style of the game?
Close to the Sun features a striking art style that blends steampunk and futuristic elements. The detailed environments and atmospheric lighting contribute to the game’s immersive and eerie atmosphere.

Q7: How is the sound design and music in the game?
The sound design is excellent, with a haunting and atmospheric soundtrack composed by David Housden. Ambient sound effects and voice acting enhance the game’s immersive experience and contribute to its suspenseful tone.

Q8: Is there a multiplayer mode in Close to the Sun?
No, Close to the Sun is a single-player experience focused on exploration and narrative. The game does not include multiplayer modes.

Q9: How long is the game?
The game typically takes around 6-8 hours to complete. The length may vary depending on the player’s exploration and puzzle-solving pace.

Q10: Are there any replayable elements in the game?
The game does not have traditional replayability features but offers a rich story and detailed environment that may encourage multiple playthroughs for players interested in uncovering all the lore and secrets.

Q11: What accessibility options are available in Close to the Sun?
Accessibility options are somewhat limited compared to other titles. However, the game’s intuitive user interface and controls are designed to be user-friendly, allowing players to enjoy the experience with minimal frustration.

Q12: Are there any known issues or common problems with the game?
While generally well-received, some players might encounter minor bugs or performance issues. The developers periodically release updates and patches to address concerns and improve the game.

Q13: Can you interact with other characters in the game?
Interactions with other characters are limited. The focus is primarily on environmental storytelling and exploration, with most narrative elements delivered through notes, recordings, and environmental cues rather than direct character interactions.

Conclusion

Close to the Sun is a visually stunning and narratively compelling adventure that offers a unique take on the survival horror genre. Its alternate history setting, combined with a richly detailed environment and engaging story, makes for a memorable and immersive experience. While the game’s focus on exploration and narrative may not appeal to all fans of horror, those who appreciate atmospheric storytelling and detailed world-building will find much to enjoy.

With its striking art style, haunting soundtrack, and intriguing plot, Close to the Sun stands out as a distinctive and engaging entry in the genre. For those who enjoy immersive adventures and alternate history settings, this game offers a haunting journey that is well worth experiencing.