Game Review: "When The Darkness Comes"

“When The Darkness Comes”, developed by indie creator Sirhaian, is a poignant exploration of mental health wrapped in the guise of a psychological horror game. Free on Steam, this title diverges from commercial gaming by focusing on impactful narrative and thematic depth rather than profit. This is not just a game, but a journey through abstract dreams and dark, thought-provoking nightmares. The game operates as a “walking simulator”, using straightforward controls to navigate through 14 chapters, each representing different aspects of depression, anxiety, and the pursuit of hope. As a player, you are led by a narrator—also the developer—who guides you through these surreal environments. His presence is a constant one, sometimes instructive, often reflective, enhancing the immersive experience. The narrative initially masquerades as comedic, but it quickly descends into darker territory, revealing its true intent—to depict the struggles of mental health issues. The game cleverly employs various elements such as glitches, dark color tones, and occasional jumpscares to maintain an unsettling atmosphere.

Here are some chapter highlights that were most impactful to me:

Chapter 3 – Market: Designed to simulate social anxiety, this chapter intensifies as players navigate a crowded market where closeness to others triggers overwhelming whispers and a visual red alert, mimicking the panic and suffocation felt in social settings. Chapter 4 – Forest: Here, players encounter a woman who, regardless of the chosen dialogue, ultimately asks to be left alone, symbolizing rejection and the complex interplay of needing help yet pushing it away. She reappears throughout the game, inaccessible and asking for help, illustrating the trapped feelings of depression. Chapter 5 – Light: A path barely lit on the edges, where players must carefully navigate without falling, encapsulates the anxiety and fear of moving forward into the unknown, a metaphor for life's uncertain journeys. Chapter 6 – Poem: This chapter features a path illuminated with a poem, where the narrator's whispers add a chilling layer to the empty yet oppressive environment, representing the internal torment of depression despite outward simplicity. Chapter 10 – Breathe: Set in an aquarium, this chapter starkly juxtaposes encouraging reminders to breathe against a backdrop where a fish appears dead, critiquing common oversimplifications of mental health struggles. Chapter 11 – Dream: Initially peaceful, this chapter abruptly shifts into chaos, symbolizing the fragile peace that can be disrupted without warning, a common fear for those with anxiety Chapter 13 – Meaning: This chapter presents a stark existential query: "What is your purpose in life?" with choices like creation, fame, money, happiness, and knowledge. No matter the selection, a nihilistic message appears, reflecting the cynicism one may experience when facing mental health issues.

One of the game's most striking features is its multiple endings, influenced by the choices players make, echoing the game's broader theme of consequence and choice in the face of despair. The “Bad Ending”, for instance, presents a grim yet powerful message on the permanence of some decisions, offering a sobering reflection on the finality of certain actions in real life. Beyond its gameplay, "When The Darkness Comes" stands out for its accessibility and its artistic flair. However, it could benefit from providing more extensive mental health resources, considering its deep engagement with sensitive topics. This addition would support the game’s educational potential and its goal of aiding those who might see their struggles reflected in its chapters. Finally, “When The Darkness Comes” is a significant achievement in indie gaming, masterfully blending psychological horror with real-world issues. It challenges players not just to engage with a game, but to think deeply about life, choice, and mental health. This game is a must-play for those interested in seeing how video games can transcend entertainment to offer meaningful, life-affirming messages.