Death On Holly Ridge

Death on Holly Ridge is a step in the right direction for an up and coming new indie horror dev. While it doesn't hit all the marks it does several things right that still make this game worth your time. Voice acting is a mixed bag with some voice overs sounding like TikTok AI, while others deliver emotion and depth to the games' story with a brilliant first time performance. The story is good for it's short playtime with there even being two different endings to unlock. Personally I would have loved to see more notes and voice recordings as I feel this element of horror games has the opportunity to create more purpose, emotion, and depth to whom we play as. Sound could be much better. The range is very dynamic with certain moments reaching absolute peaks in audio levels. I do know the dev is aware of this issue. Otherwise the sound here is perfect in playing it's own part in delivering atmosphere; a key ingredient in horror games. I LOVED the stylization of this game with an almost neo-PS2 style of graphics. The lighting was right where it needed to be and when strung together actually delivers a world that feels REAL as you walk around a home that actually feels lived in. Scares are more of your traditional jumpscares you find in games these days with some you can see a mile awhile while others will KNOCK YOU ON YOUR ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥ ASS. Despite some dumb brain moments from myself of not knowing what to do next, I enjoyed my time in Holly Ridge. Without giving it away, there were a few fun surprises for horror fans I wish we could have seen more of. I laughed, I screamed, and I felt the Christmas spirit. Overall, if you're looking for a holiday themed horror game you found the best one.