Crying Is Not Enough is a third-person survival horror experience developed by the Greek indie studio Storyline Team. The game centers on Jacob Helten, a man whose life is upended when his wife Claire mysteriously disappears shortly after a car accident leaves her hospitalized. As Jacob searches for her, he is drawn into a sinister and twisted world filled with nightmarish creatures and dark secrets. The narrative explores themes of desperation, loss, and psychological tension, blending classic horror storytelling with modern suspense.
The game was developed over five years by a small team and released in 2018 for PC. It was designed as an homage to the classic survival horror games of the late 1990s and early 2000s, combining exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat within a tense narrative framework. The developers aimed to craft an experience that balanced action and atmospheric horror, showcasing how independent studios could produce ambitious horror games even without the resources of major publishers.
Gameplay
Crying Is Not Enough uses third-person perspective gameplay that emphasizes survival, exploration, and combat. Players control Jacob as he navigates dimly lit corridors, abandoned buildings, and hostile environments, facing grotesque enemies while solving puzzles to progress. Resources such as ammunition and healing items are limited, demanding strategic thinking. Combat is deliberate and tense, encouraging players to carefully plan encounters rather than rush through threats. The game also uses story-driven choices to enhance immersion and build suspense.
Visuals & Style
The game employs a dark, moody visual style designed to evoke anxiety and unease. Environments are detailed, from hospital corridors to eerie urban landscapes, using lighting and shadow to amplify tension. Creature design leans into body horror, presenting unsettling enemies that feel dangerous and unpredictable. Sound design is a key element, with subtle ambient noises, distorted audio cues, and sudden sound bursts heightening fear and maintaining a constant sense of danger.
Importance in Survival Horror History
While Crying Is Not Enough did not achieve mainstream fame, it is notable for demonstrating the potential of indie developers to recreate and innovate within the survival horror genre. It preserves many traditional elements such as limited resources, atmospheric storytelling, and methodical pacing, proving that smaller teams can still deliver intense horror experiences that appeal to fans of classic titles.
Reception vs Historical Value
The game received mixed reactions upon release. Some players praised its commitment to classic survival horror mechanics and its atmospheric presentation, while critics pointed out rough edges in combat and technical performance. Despite these criticisms, Crying Is Not Enough gained recognition as an ambitious project from a small team and remains a noteworthy example of indie survival horror development.
Availability & Collectibility
Crying Is Not Enough was originally available on PC, primarily through digital storefronts. Although it has been delisted and is no longer officially sold, a demo version remains accessible. Physical editions were never produced, making the game primarily a digital experience. Its rarity and status as a dedicated indie horror project give it a cult appeal for collectors and fans of obscure survival horror games.
Get the Demo :
Steam:Crying is not Enough: Remastered on Steam
Trailer: