| Developer | Publisher | Platforms |
|---|---|---|
| PQube, Gamera Games | SOFTSTAR ENTERTAINMENT | Microsoft Windows-Xbox Series X/S-Xbox One-Nintendo Switch-PlayStation 4-PlayStation 5 |
The indie horror scene has seen many innovative titles that aim to balance storytelling, suspenseful gameplay, and creative puzzles. The Bridge Curse 2: The Extrication is no exception, bringing an engaging and atmospheric experience to fans of supernatural horror. While the game offers a strong story, intriguing puzzles, and effective stealth mechanics, its short runtime, pacing issues, and poor voice acting prevent it from reaching its full potential.
The Bridge Curse 2 Compelling Narrative
One of the standout elements of The Bridge Curse 2 is its story. The game continues to build upon the urban legends of its predecessor, plunging players into a world of cursed spirits and unraveling mysteries. The Bridge Curse 2: The Extrication takes players into the heart of a chilling Taiwanese urban legend. Set on a cursed university campus, the game follows a group of characters who are caught in a deadly chain of supernatural events tied to the infamous “bridge curse.” According to the legend, those who cross a specific bridge during a forbidden time face a terrifying demise. The narrative keeps you engaged with its twists and moments of genuine tension, ensuring that you remain curious about the unfolding events. The developers have a strong grasp of crafting a compelling plot that blends traditional ghost lore with modern game storytelling.
However, while the story itself is intriguing, the English voice acting fails to deliver the emotional weight required for the characters’ journeys. Lines are often offered monotone or exaggerated to the point of breaking immersion. Furthermore, the lip-syncing for the English voiceovers feels out of place and poorly timed, making interactions awkward and detracting from the game’s otherwise haunting atmosphere.
A Mix of Strengths and Frustrations
The gameplay in The Bridge Curse 2 revolves around first person stealth mechanics and puzzle-solving, both of which are well-executed. The stealth sections are tense and require careful observation of the enemy patterns, creating a feeling of vulnerability that aligns perfectly with the game’s horror theme. Meanwhile, the puzzles are thoughtfully designed, striking a balance between challenge and accessibility. They keep the pace varied and add depth to the exploration of the game’s eerie environments.
Despite these strengths, the overall experience is hindered by frequent interruptions in gameplay. These pauses, whether due to loading screens, cut scenes, or abrupt transitions between sections, disrupt the immersion and frustrate the player. The game’s short length worsens this issue, leaving the impression that more time could have been spent refining the pacing and smoothing out the gameplay flow.
The Bridge Curse 2 is An Eerie Triumph
The level design in The Bridge Curse 2 is another strong point. The environments are nicely crafted to evoke a sense of dread and unease. Dark corridors, flickering lights, and ominous sounds combine to create an atmosphere that keeps players on edge throughout the experience. The attention to detail in these areas showcases the developers’ ability to immerse players in a believable and terrifying world. The enemy spirit designs deserve special mention. Each ghost is uniquely crafted to feel distinct and unsettling, contributing to the game’s tension and making every encounter a memorable challenge. From their appearances to their behaviors, the enemies are designed with clear intent, amplifying the horror and reinforcing the supernatural theme.
The Bridge Curse 2 is Short
One of the most glaring issues with The Bridge Curse 2 is its shortness. The game feels like it ends just as it begins to reach its stride. This short runtime undermines the impact of the story and leaves little room for the characters or the world to develop fully. Players who were drawn in by the narrative and gameplay may find themselves disappointed when the credits roll sooner than expected. A longer runtime could have allowed for more complex puzzles, extended exploration, and deeper character development. It’s a shame that the game doesn’t capitalize on its potential by expanding its content and providing a richer, more fulfilling experience.
A Horrifying Experience
The Bridge Curse 2: The Extrication offers a lot to admire, from its captivating story and atmospheric level design to its creative puzzles and tense stealth sequences. These elements showcase the developers’ talent and dedication to creating an immersive horror experience. However, the game’s short runtime, frequent interruptions in gameplay, and lackluster voice acting hold it back from being a truly standout title. For fans of horror games, The Bridge Curse 2 is worth playing for its strengths, especially if you’re drawn to supernatural themes and engaging puzzles. Just be prepared for a brief and occasionally frustrating experience that leaves you wishing for more.
The review code was provided by the publisher
| GAMEPLAY | ART | VALUE |
|---|---|---|
| 75% | 80% | 75% |