Last Report: Filing Frights and Pixelated Perils
A horror game that makes paperwork terrifying
Launch Day Larry
Welcome to “Last Report,” where the mundane task of filling out reports is transformed into a spine-chilling experience. This indie horror game combines the thrill of a haunted house with the tedium of office work, creating a unique blend of terror and tedium that will have you questioning your career choices.
Gameplay: A Bureaucratic Nightmare
In “Last Report,” players are thrust into a world where the simple act of evaluating reports becomes a harrowing ordeal. The gameplay loop is straightforward: fill out reports while navigating a chaotic and eerie environment. The game’s atmospheric styling and moody horror elements are its strongest suits, drawing players into a “cosy horror” experience that is both engaging and unsettling.
However, the report evaluation mechanics can be as confusing as trying to decipher a doctor’s handwriting. Players often find themselves scratching their heads over future-dated reports that aren’t flagged as errors, and the lack of feedback on mistakes leaves many feeling like they’re stuck in a Kafkaesque nightmare. The absence of a pause menu or save option means that any attempt to explore different outcomes requires starting from scratch, which is about as fun as redoing your taxes.
Despite these frustrations, the game does deliver some effective jump scares and intriguing story twists. The pixel art is a visual treat, and the sound design enhances the eerie atmosphere, making it a solid choice for a short horror experience. Just don’t expect to find any life-changing revelations in the narrative.
Graphics: Pixelated Perfection
The graphics in “Last Report” are a standout feature, with the pixel art style receiving widespread acclaim. The game’s unique aesthetic and detailed visuals play a crucial role in shaping the overall experience, creating an ambiance that is both charming and chilling. The pixel art is not only beautiful but also enhances the storytelling, making the horror elements more immersive.
For those playing on the Steam Deck, adjusting the resolution to 1366 x 768 is recommended to optimize the visual experience. This adaptability across platforms ensures that the game’s graphical quality remains intact, allowing players to fully appreciate the art style’s nostalgic appeal.
While the pixel style may not be everyone’s cup of tea, it undeniably contributes to the game’s success, making it a recommended choice for fans of narrative-driven games with a distinct aesthetic.
Story: A Tale of Twists and Tedium
“Last Report” presents a narrative-focused adventure set against a backdrop of a moody park ranger horror theme. The story captivates with its unique aesthetic and effective use of sound, but its execution leaves much to be desired. While the initial premise is intriguing, the narrative often feels disjointed, with random elements and macguffins that fail to cohesively tie together.
Dialogue often relies on exposition, and the use of swearing feels like a cheap attempt to convey seriousness. The endings lack meaningful choice, leading to a sense of disappointment among players. Characters like Caroline seem more like filler than integral parts of the story, and certain plotlines, such as the missing child case, don’t align well with the main supernatural theme.
Despite these shortcomings, the game remains a memorable and entertaining short experience. Its mystery and puzzle elements are enjoyable, and the atmospheric setting is a significant draw for those interested in horror stories set in the woods. With more depth and polish, “Last Report” could fully realize its intriguing premise.
Final Verdict
“Last Report” is a solid short horror/job simulation game that offers a unique blend of terror and tedium. While its gameplay mechanics and narrative clarity could use some tweaks, the game’s art style, intriguing story twists, and effective jump scares make it worth exploring. If you’re looking for a brief, atmospheric horror experience at a low price, “Last Report” is a decent choice. Just be prepared for some bureaucratic nightmares along the way.
Score: 6.5/10