In The Fear Business, you step into the shoes of Sarah, a journalist determined to uncover the truth behind a series of mysterious disappearances linked to a shadowy satanic cult. Her investigation leads her to the ominous Solomon Manor, a sprawling Victorian estate shrouded in secrets and danger. As Sarah delves deeper into the manor’s mysteries, she encounters the terrifying Goat Face, a relentless entity that stalks her every move. With the manor’s dark corridors and shifting perspectives, Sarah must navigate a world where every corner hides a new horror.
The Fear Business is a third person survival horror game developed by Tomás Esconjaureguy and published by selewi. Released on October 28, 2024, the game draws inspiration from 1980s satanic panic and found footage films. Players assume the role of Sarah, a journalist investigating the disappearance of several individuals in the town of Black Hill. Her journey takes her to the Solomon Manor, where she must navigate through eerie environments, solve intricate puzzles, and survive encounters with the malevolent Goat Face. The game features a unique save mechanic involving devil shrines and offers multiple difficulty modes to cater to different playstyles.
Gameplay
The Fear Business combines classic survival horror elements with modern design sensibilities. Players explore the vast Solomon Manor, interacting with its inhabitants and uncovering hidden secrets. The game employs fixed camera angles and cinematic perspectives, enhancing the atmosphere and tension. A standout feature is the save system, where players must extinguish candles at devil shrines to save their progress, but doing so causes the manor to become progressively darker and more perilous. Combat is optional; players can choose to confront threats or evade them, adding a layer of strategy to the gameplay.
Visuals and Style
The game’s aesthetic is heavily influenced by the PS1 era horror titles, featuring low resolution textures, pre rendered backgrounds, and fixed camera angles. This retro style is complemented by VHS style glitches and grainy visuals, immersing players in a nostalgic yet terrifying experience. The lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood; the flickering candles and dimly lit corridors create an atmosphere of dread and uncertainty. The manor’s design is intricate, with each room offering unique challenges and secrets to discover.
Importance in Survival Horror History
The Fear Business stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic survival horror games. By blending traditional gameplay mechanics with modern storytelling and design, it offers both nostalgia for longtime fans and a fresh experience for newcomers. The game’s emphasis on atmosphere, exploration, and psychological tension reinforces the notion that fear is often more effective when it is implied rather than shown.
Reception and Historical Value
Upon its release, The Fear Business received positive reviews from players and critics alike. Praise was directed at its atmospheric design, retro aesthetic, and engaging puzzles. However, some criticisms were aimed at the game’s pacing and control mechanics. Despite these minor drawbacks, the game has garnered a dedicated following and is considered a noteworthy entry in the indie horror scene.
Availability and Collectibility
The Fear Business is available digitally on PC via Steam and Itch.io. As an indie title, it offers a unique horror experience that appeals to fans of atmospheric and dark and occult narrative driven games.
Get it on:
Itch.io : The Fear Business by selewi
Steam: The Fear Business on Steam
Trailer: