The Beast Inside is a first person survival horror game that intertwines two narratives set in different time periods. In 1979, Adam Stevenson, a CIA cryptanalyst, moves to a secluded country house to decrypt Soviet codes, only to encounter terrifying supernatural forces. Simultaneously, players experience the 1864 diary of Nicolas Hyde, whose descent into madness reveals dark secrets of the house’s history. This dual timeline creates a chilling atmosphere as players uncover long-buried truths and confront their deepest fears.
Developed by Illusion Ray Studio and published by Movie Games S.A., The Beast Inside was initially released on PC on October 17, 2019. The game was later made available on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One on November 29, 2022. It was subsequently released on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S on December 7, 2022. The Nintendo Switch version was released on October 31, 2024. The game combines elements of psychological horror and thriller genres, offering players a gripping experience through photorealistic environments and immersive storytelling. The narrative’s depth and the game’s atmospheric design have garnered attention for their homage to classic horror titles.
Gameplay
The Beast Inside emphasizes exploration and puzzle-solving, with minimal combat mechanics. Players navigate through detailed environments, solving riddles and uncovering secrets hidden within the house. The game features a day-night cycle, where daytime sequences focus on investigation and puzzle solving, while nighttime segments introduce heightened horror elements, including stealth and chase sequences. The alternating perspectives between Adam and Nicolas provide a layered storytelling experience, enhancing the game’s depth.
Visuals & Style
The game boasts photorealistic graphics, utilizing advanced lighting and texture techniques to create lifelike environments. The detailed interiors of the country house, combined with atmospheric lighting, contribute to a sense of isolation and tension. Sound design plays a crucial role, with ambient noises and sudden audio cues amplifying the horror experience. The visual and auditory elements work in tandem to immerse players in a hauntingly realistic setting.
Importance in Survival Horror History
While The Beast Inside may not have achieved widespread mainstream recognition, it holds a significant place in the indie horror genre. The game’s dedication to atmospheric storytelling, combined with its innovative dual narrative structure, offers a fresh take on traditional survival horror. Its emphasis on psychological tension over repetitive jump scares aligns with the genre’s roots, appealing to fans seeking a more cerebral horror experience, but do not misunderstand this you will get scared, and you will jump out of the seat.
Reception vs Historical Value
Upon release, The Beast Inside received generally positive reviews from players and critics alike. Praise was directed towards its immersive atmosphere, detailed environments, and compelling narrative. However, some critiques mentioned occasional pacing issues and the game’s reliance on traditional horror tropes. Despite these critiques, the game has developed a dedicated fanbase and is appreciated for its contribution to the indie horror scene.
Availability & Collectibility
The Beast Inside is available digitally on platforms such as Steam, PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, and Nintendo eShop. It was released in 2019 for PC and later expanded to consoles in 2022 and 2024. The game’s availability on multiple digital storefronts ensures that it continues to reach a broad audience, maintaining its status as a noteworthy title in the indie horror genre.
Get it on:
Steam: The Beast Inside on Steam
GOG: -90% The Beast Inside on GOG.com
Switch: The Beast Inside for Nintendo Switch – Nintendo Official Site
Xbox: Buy The Beast Inside (Console Version) | Xbox
PSN: The Beast Inside
Trailer: