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BECROWNED is an indie survival horror game developed by 13th Street Studio, led by Ernest Anpilov. Drawing inspiration from classic titles like Silent Hill, Resident Evil, and Alone in the Dark, the game aims to revive the atmospheric tension and psychological horror elements that defined late 90s and early 2000s survival horror games.

Setting and Narrative

The game is set in a surreal, nightmarish world where fears manifest into reality. Players take on the role of Richard Torrance, a man whose ambitions have led him into a realm of endless suffering. The narrative explores themes of punishment, regret, and the consequences of one's actions. As Richard navigates through this twisted world, he uncovers secrets about his past and the dark history of those around him.

Gameplay Mechanics

BECROWNED offers a blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat. Players will explore various environments, including dilapidated hospitals and eerie landscapes, each filled with hidden passages and optional puzzles. Combat is designed to be challenging, with limited resources and enemies that require strategic approaches to defeat. The game also features a nonlinear storyline, where player choices impact the fate of other characters and lead to multiple possible endings.

Visual and Audio Design

The game's aesthetic is heavily influenced by the PS1 and PS2 era, featuring low-poly models and a VHS-like filter to evoke a sense of nostalgia. The environments are designed to be atmospheric and unsettling, with tight corridors and dim lighting that enhance the feeling of dread. The audio design plays a crucial role in building tension, with eerie sound effects and a haunting soundtrack that complement the visual elements.

Development and Community Engagement

Development of BECROWNED began in 2021, with Ernest Anpilov initially working solo before expanding the team. The game has been in development during the team's free time, leading to a slow but steady progress. Despite being a small indie studio, 13th Street Studio has maintained an active presence in the gaming community, sharing updates and engaging with fans through platforms like Reddit. The team has also incorporated live-action content into the game, filmed with the help of the development team, to add a unique touch to the game's presentation.

Technical Specifications

BECROWNED is optimized for both Windows and macOS platforms, with full Steam Deck support. The game requires a minimum of 8 GB of RAM and approximately 3 GB of storage space. For optimal performance, a system with an Intel Core i7-6950X processor and an AMD Radeon RX 5700 graphics card is recommended. The developers have also expressed interest in bringing the game to the Nintendo Switch in the future.

Reception and Anticipation

Early previews and demos have garnered positive feedback from the gaming community. Destructoid described BECROWNED as "the manifestation of fans' love for old-school horror," highlighting its atmospheric design and homage to classic survival horror games. TheSixthAxis noted that the game is "as close to an old school Silent Hill as you can get," praising its eerie environments and psychological horror elements. However, some critics have pointed out that the game still needs to carve out its own identity within the genre.

Conclusion

BECROWNED stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic survival horror games. With its atmospheric design, engaging narrative, and challenging gameplay, it promises to deliver an experience that both honors its inspirations and offers something new to the genre. As development progresses, fans of retro horror games have much to look forward to.