In a world filled with epic battles, magical quests, and finely crafted multiplayer experiences, 'The Exit 8' bravely opts for an entirely different approach—incredibly (and possibly absurdly) focusing on the surreal horror of walking through a Japanese metro station. And boy, does it really capture the unsettling thrill of getting lost in a concrete labyrinth where the exit seems perpetually out of reach.
This first-person 'walking simulator' has you traversing a seemingly endless passageway while playing a rather high-stakes version of 'Spot the Difference.' You might think you're simply strolling along a beautifully rendered station, but don't let that calm facade fool you. Every corner could hide an anomaly—a floating wall, a suspiciously identical poster, or even some poor chap camouflaged as the tiles (yes, you read that right). If you find one, congratulations! Turn around and retrace your steps before that lurking disaster gets you. But waffle too long on whether it's a real threat or just your mind playing tricks, and it’s back to Exit 0 you go. There’s no holding hands here; one wrong move and you could find yourself slipping into a reality you never wanted to entertain—like visiting a family gathering during awkward hours.
Graphically, 'The Exit 8' is less about jaw-dropping vistas and more about crafting a claustrophobic atmosphere that feels unsettlingly familiar. The Unreal Engine 5 ensures the textures of the metro passage are sharp enough to make you ponder whether you’ve left the game on while standing in a real train station, waiting for a delayed train. The unnerving sound design envelops you, with the dull hum of fluorescent lights and the sound of footsteps echoing in the vast emptiness—perfectly tailored to amplify your growing paranoia. The game looks stellar, and devs at Kotake Create clearly nailed the essence of Japanese metro stations. Kudos to them for making me second-guess every subway I choose!
Ultimately, 'The Exit 8' is a curious little title that straddles the line between horror and semi-educational walking simulator, challenging you to question everything you thought was safe (mostly your local metro stations). While it might not offer the kind of replay value that will keep you glued to your Switch after your first few plays, its unique take on psychological tension is enough for a couple of compelling rounds. So, if you're ready to confront your fears of subway wandering, this game might just be the backbone of your next existential crisis. Plus, it makes for a great game to play while waiting for your train—and let’s be honest, that’s the true horror right there.