Recent reviews by Small Shaq

A 15-minute walking simulator where you aimlessly wander through an empty house. Objects occasionally move, but there’s no real story, purpose, or payoff. It feels more like a tech demo than a game.

Full Playthrough here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aTT2gz4Odi0

Devil in Me unfortunately falls short compared to its predecessor, House of Ashes. Despite its intriguing premise based on the infamous HH Holmes, the game fails to deliver in multiple key areas. The characters are flat and unremarkable, making it hard to get invested in their fates. The setting, which should have been a chilling backdrop, feels underwhelming and fails to capitalize on the potential of the story.

The atmosphere lacks the tension and depth that made House of Ashes so compelling. With a storyline rooted in such a fascinating and macabre historical figure, it’s disappointing to see Devil in Me squander that potential. What could have been a truly gripping experience ends up feeling like a missed opportunity, leaving the player underwhelmed and, frankly, a bit bored. It’s a game that doesn’t live up to the hype and is ultimately forgettable.

Full Playthrough: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KnQygdxIaO8&t=1365s

Freedom Fighters is a game that oozes nostalgia from every pixel, and I mean that in the best way possible. It’s one of those rare gems that perfectly captures the essence of early 2000s shooters, with a gameplay experience that still holds up incredibly well today. The mechanics are intuitive, the action is fast-paced, and the squad-based combat offers a level of strategy that’s surprisingly deep. Every mission feels impactful, and there’s an undeniable charm to the way the game pulls you into its alternate history.

The controls are smooth, the environments are immersive, and the game’s progression system keeps you engaged. It’s a game that feels timeless, making it hard to believe it’s over 20 years old. The nostalgia is almost overwhelming, with every moment reminding you of the golden age of gaming.

However, where it falters is its story. While the concept is solid and the premise of a resistance fighting against an oppressive Soviet regime is compelling, the narrative itself falls flat. The characters are one-dimensional, and the dialogue can feel a bit cliché at times. Despite this, the gameplay is strong enough to carry the experience, making Freedom Fighters a must-play for anyone craving a nostalgic trip with engaging mechanics, even if the story doesn’t quite live up to the hype.

Full Playthrough: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4s0zf3lyX1c&t=10521s

Red Faction 2 is the most generic shooter imaginable. The plot is recycled, the gameplay is clunky and repetitive, and the AI is laughable. The destruction mechanic feels underdeveloped, and the environments and graphics are dull. With poor voice acting and zero innovation, this game offers nothing new or exciting. It’s a forgettable, lazy shooter that’s best left in the past.

Save your time and money—check out this full playthrough to see just how bad this game really is. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vyCvLf2Wkdk&t=8322s

Terroro was so unsettling, it made me uninstall TikTok.

Full playthrough: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=maxY61I0Nk8&t=1s

Firewatch is truly a must-play game that offers an unforgettable experience from start to finish. It took me a little over three hours to complete, and in that time, I found myself fully immersed in the story, which demands to be played in a single sitting. The game’s stunning visuals capture the breathtaking beauty of the Wyoming wilderness, and every scene feels meticulously crafted, making the world feel alive and expansive. The attention to detail in the environment—from the changing weather to the rich, vibrant landscapes—draws you into the setting like few games can.

The voice acting in Firewatch is absolutely top-notch, with the performances from the two lead characters—Henry and Delilah—bringing an emotional depth that anchors the entire narrative. Their dialogue feels incredibly natural, allowing the relationship between them to develop in an organic way. It’s this dynamic that makes the story so compelling, as the game explores themes of loneliness, isolation, and the human need for connection.

Complementing the visuals and voice acting is a soothing, atmospheric soundtrack that perfectly matches the mood of the game. The music enhances the experience without overwhelming it, allowing players to lose themselves in the quiet tension of the story.

At its core, Firewatch is a deeply emotional journey that touches on real-world issues like stress, anxiety, and depression. The game captures the psychological weight of dealing with personal loss, mental health struggles, and the yearning for escape in a way that’s both subtle and powerful. The story doesn’t shy away from exploring the complexity of human emotions, and it leaves you reflecting long after the credits roll.

In conclusion, Firewatch is an experience that resonates deeply. It’s a game that not only tells a compelling story but also explores the inner turmoil and emotional struggles that come with facing one’s fears and confronting personal demons. It’s an experience that will stay with you, prompting you to think about the nature of relationships, isolation, and the importance of human connection, long after you’ve finished playing.

Full Playthrough: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ffcCtrA39wA&t=7271s

Teleforum is undoubtedly one of the best free psychological horror experiences on Steam. This game skillfully blends unsettling atmospheres with mind-bending puzzles and a creeping sense of dread. The narrative unfolds in an eerie, distorted world, where reality blurs and the boundaries of the mind are tested. The eerie sound design and minimalist visuals contribute to the tense, claustrophobic atmosphere, making each moment feel genuinely unnerving. Despite being free, Teleforum offers a deeply immersive experience that rivals many paid horror games. It’s a must-play for anyone seeking a short yet impactful psychological horror journey.

Full Playthrough: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qjlDh-TNMcM

10 wasted minutes
Full Playthrough: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BkeSp9AIb1c

Dark Fracture: Prologue fulfills its purpose perfectly: it offers just enough to leave you excited for the complete project. In its short 30-minute runtime, the game sets a chilling tone. While it doesn't provide all the answers, it successfully piques your curiosity, making you eager to see what comes next. It's a compelling teaser that does exactly what it needs to—build anticipation for the full experience.

Full playthrough: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VSRJrXA4feg

I just played it and already forgot everything about it.

Full playthrough: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YopEJ0t8WyE