What is it? A medieval horror game with delightfully wonky controls.
Release date: August 27, 2025
Expect to pay: £9.99 / .99
Developer: WildArts Games
Publisher: Black Lantern Collective
Reviewed on: RX 9070 XT, Intel Core i5 12600K, 32GB RAM
Multiplayer: No
Steam Deck: Not verified
Link: Steam
From the creators of the pre-Dark Souls era, Caput Mortem invites players into a medieval horror landscape that feels both familiar and refreshingly unique. The controls may initially seem quirky, reminiscent of a time when developers were still mastering the art of first-person gameplay on consoles. Players will find themselves navigating the environment with the triggers and bumpers, reminiscent of an anti-aircraft gunner from World War II. Meanwhile, the right analog stick allows for the manipulation of objects and melee combat, adding an engaging layer of interactivity.
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Drawing inspiration from literary classics like The Name of The Rose, the game intertwines puzzles with elements of Renaissance culture. One notable challenge immerses players in the Greek cosmos, offering a delightful nod to the arts and letters of the period, enhancing the overall atmosphere.
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The creatures that inhabit this world are more uncanny than outright terrifying, yet their designs are captivating. The homunculi, towering at eight feet with their clay-like forms and exaggerated features, have become the game’s unofficial mascots. Caput Mortem expertly employs tension through techniques reminiscent of Amnesia, utilizing screen blurring and sharp audio cues to heighten the sense of danger when facing adversaries.
Combat mechanics encourage a dance of strategy, allowing players to engage in melee while tactically retreating to avoid attacks. This familiar rhythm, often seen in indie first-person titles, is given a distinct flavor by the game’s intentionally clunky controls.
There’s no dorky sidekick going ‘Hm, don’t those symbols look like the ones on those jars in the other room?’
However, the game also introduces formidable foes that cannot be defeated through conventional means. These relentless pursuers require players to engage in clever puzzles to escape their grasp. One memorable encounter involves a homunculus in a schoolhouse, who challenges players to a game of Simon Says. The stakes are high; failure to mimic his movements could lead to a gruesome end. In a moment of panic, I found myself inadvertently matching his gestures, resulting in an unexpected escape—a delightful blend of horror and humor that exemplifies the game’s emergent gameplay.
While these encounters may lose their initial scare factor after a few repetitions, the pacing ensures they remain engaging. Notably, when I found myself stumped by a puzzle, the lurking threat was considerate enough to allow me some breathing room, showcasing the game’s thoughtful design.
Puzzles in Caput Mortem are generally enjoyable, offering a satisfying challenge without overwhelming frustration. Most revolve around connecting environmental cues to alchemical devices, allowing players to piece together solutions organically. The absence of a guiding sidekick enhances the experience, as players are encouraged to explore and discover clues independently.
Beyond its unconventional controls, Caput Mortem captivates with its rich atmosphere, immersing players in a surreal, renaissance-inspired world that lingers in the mind long after the game concludes. While I found myself yearning for more content, the balance of horror and gameplay is commendable. At a price point of , it offers a fair value for the experience, leaving players eager for the next chapter in this intriguing narrative.
