Darkwood

 PC
Metascore
80

Generally favorable reviews - based on 16 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 14 out of 16
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 16
  3. Negative: 0 out of 16
  1. Hardcore Gamer
    Sep 11, 2017
    70
    Darkwood is one of those games where it’s easy to have a mixed opinion on it. The control mechanics leave something to be desired, which is never any more true than in combat. Once we get past that, Darkwood actually gets a lot of things right. The story is shrouded in mystery as bits of the narrative are gradually revealed as the player progresses through the game. The very nature of the game is puzzling, but without any hand holding the player can figure out what needs to be done and this feels rewarding. Tension is built through a constant sense of danger and the unknown, with a visual style and sound direction that contribute to the overall sensation of dread. The end result is a more psychologically-driven sense of fear and not one made by the cheap use of jump scares. The lack of direction and poor combat controls could be enough to keep some from entering Darkwood, but horror fans that are willing to forgive these aspects can find a rewarding and chilling experience within.
  2. Wccftech
    Oct 1, 2017
    60
    Darkwood is a fine open-world survival experience, and spins a good yarn, but doesn’t quite succeed as a horror game. The ominous veneer wears off quickly enough, and you’re left with a somewhat cumbersome Don’t Starve clone. Darkwood has its moments and will please a certain dedicated breed, but less masochistic general gaming audiences may find the title more tedious than terrifying. Don’t venture into these woods unless you’re prepared to rough it.

Awards & Rankings

75
#75 Best PC Game of 2017
60
#60 Most Discussed PC Game of 2017

User Reviews

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User Score
8.2

Generally favorable reviews- based on 165 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 127 out of 165
  2. Mixed: 25 out of 165
  3. Negative: 13 out of 165
  1. petillo
    Sep 6, 2017
    10
    I'm actually amazed, that there are so few ratings. I got the game through their Piratebay Torrent, which in itself is so commend worthy, readI'm actually amazed, that there are so few ratings. I got the game through their Piratebay Torrent, which in itself is so commend worthy, read their ReadMe in it. I will however buy it on Steam aswell, because i think creative people deserve to be supported, otherwise we will all be force-fed tripple A crap all our lives.

    This game is simple, yet very very intense. You might think you can't get scared because it's top down, or a graphical style which you can't get familiar with. HOWEVER, playing it with one life only, is super intense. If you like psychological horror, don't even think about it, just do yourself a favour and play it.

    And just in case any of the devs read this review: You guys are amazing and i look forward to see what else you are developing next!    … Full Review »
  2. BlakeArius
    Jan 11, 2015
    9
    Great atmosphere, probably the creepiest 2D I've ever played, And just the right amount of pixel resolution to give both a detailed but 16-bitGreat atmosphere, probably the creepiest 2D I've ever played, And just the right amount of pixel resolution to give both a detailed but 16-bit feel.
    The game is hard and doesn't hold your hand, you will get lost and die. But the controls work well for top-down view its just a matter of finding weapons before night hits you.
    Its currently in alpha but still plenty of game-play to be had at this point. Give it a go if your a fan of DAYZ, amnesia or generally hard indie games like binding of Issac.    … Full Review »
  3. Crowborn
    May 10, 2017
    10
    The game was good when it came out in 2014, and since then it got massively better. The storyline has expanded immensely and many problems ofThe game was good when it came out in 2014, and since then it got massively better. The storyline has expanded immensely and many problems of yore have been dealt with accordingly. It's still getting updates, but it would already be probably the best 2D horror game out there if it was finished as it currently is.… Full Review »
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