Terminal 81 takes you on a haunting journey through the crime-ridden streets of Terminal 81, a fictionalized São Paulo neighborhood in 2008. You step into the shoes of Lorena, a recent arrival struggling to make ends meet amidst a harsh economic climate. As a string of kidnappings throws the community into fear, you’ll find yourself not just trying to survive, but also unraveling the dark secrets lurking beneath the surface.
The game’s greatest strength lies in its ability to create a truly immersive atmosphere. The developers have opted for a lo-fi visual style that evokes a classic pixelated aesthetic. While not graphically groundbreaking, this choice perfectly complements the bleak and gritty world of Terminal 81. The desolate streets, cramped apartments, and flickering neon signs all contribute to a constant sense of unease.
Sound design further enhances the atmosphere. The sparse soundtrack leaves room for the ambient sounds of the neighborhood to take center stage. The creaking floorboards of your apartment, the distant sirens, and the hushed whispers of conversations create a palpable tension.
The central mystery surrounding the disappearances is undoubtedly intriguing. Bits and pieces of lore are scattered throughout the environment, waiting to be discovered through exploration and conversations with the neighborhood residents. These fragmented clues slowly build a picture of a sinister force at play.
However, Terminal 81’s ambition can be a double-edged sword. The open-world environment offers a sense of freedom, allowing you to explore the neighborhood at your own pace and engage in side quests. You can take on a job at the local supermarket to earn money for your apartment, which adds a layer of realism and forces you to engage with the community.
While these elements can be engaging, they can also detract from the central narrative. The open-world structure can feel overwhelming at times, and the focus on survival mechanics can pull you away from the
Read more on gamesreviews.com