House of Velez is a psychological horror game that immerses players in a dark and twisted narrative. The story follows Lily Velez, the daughter of a renowned archaeologist, as she returns to her family’s estate after her father’s sudden disappearance. Determined to uncover the truth behind his vanishing and clear his name amidst a company scandal, Lily’s investigation leads her into a nightmarish reality filled with grotesque horrors and unimaginable terrors.
Developed and published by Dark Room Games, House of Velez was released on October 24, 2017. The game is a side-scrolling horror experience that emphasizes stealth, puzzle-solving, and survival mechanics over combat. Drawing inspiration from classic survival horror titles like Haunting Ground and films such as the 1980s Hellraiser, it offers a unique blend of atmospheric tension and psychological dread.
Gameplay
The gameplay centers on stealth and evasion. Players must navigate through the eerie mansion, avoiding monstrous entities and solving intricate puzzles to progress. Combat is minimal, with the focus placed on sneaking, hiding, and using the environment to outwit pursuers. A notable feature is the “Focus Mode,” which allows players to see enemy vision cones and manage noise levels to avoid detection. The game’s design encourages careful planning and quick thinking, as a single mistake can lead to fatal consequences.
Visuals & Style
House of Velez employs a side-scrolling perspective with detailed pixel art that enhances its eerie atmosphere. The environments are richly designed, with each room and corridor exuding a sense of decay and malevolence. The use of lighting and shadow plays a crucial role in creating tension, while the grotesque character designs and unsettling animations contribute to the game’s nightmarish quality.
Importance in Survival Horror History
While House of Velez may not have achieved mainstream recognition, it holds a special place in the survival horror genre. Its emphasis on psychological horror, stealth mechanics, and atmospheric storytelling offers a fresh take on the genre. The game’s commitment to creating a deeply unsettling experience without relying on traditional combat mechanics showcases the potential for innovation within survival horror.
Reception vs Historical Value
Upon release, House of Velez received positive reviews from players who appreciated its unique approach to horror. Many praised its atmospheric design, compelling narrative, and the tension created through stealth-based gameplay. However, some players found the difficulty spikes and limited combat options challenging. Over time, the game has garnered a cult following, with fans lauding its dedication to psychological horror and its ability to evoke genuine fear.
Availability & Collectibility
House of Velez is available for purchase on Steam. As a digital-only release, it lacks physical editions, making it less collectible in traditional senses. However, its niche appeal and unique gameplay mechanics have led to a dedicated fanbase, and it remains accessible to players interested in exploring its haunting world.
Get it on:
Steam: House of Velez part 1 on Steam
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