Hollowbody Offers a Futuristic Take on Classic Survival Horror
Spencer Johnson, Contributor
Survival horror games place their defenseless subjects in brooding atmospheres, surrounded by nightmares. From 1999 to 2005, gamers were treated to a golden age of survival horror with games like Resident Evil, Silent Hill, Siren, and Eternal Darkness. While many modern games continue to torture their fans, they have abandoned mechanics such as static camera angles in favor of over-the-shoulder third-person angles, creating a more dynamic, action-oriented experience. Think of games like Dead Space and The Evil Within.
Headware Games’ Hollowbody, which debuted on September 12, returns to the genre’s roots to offer both a nostalgic and innovative twist on the survival horror genre. Drawing inspiration from the iconic PlayStation 2-era titles, particularly Silent Hill, Hollowbody channels the essence of classic horror while infusing it with modern elements that breathe new life into the genre.
Mica exploring the dystopian environment of Hollowbody. Screenshot by author.
In Hollowbody, players step into the shoes of Mica, an unlicensed smuggler whose hovercraft crash-lands in a dystopian British city. This grim exclusion zone, walled off and abandoned, has become a nightmarish landscape filled with grotesque monsters and the eerie remnants of a catastrophic event that has reshaped the city. Mica's mission is to locate her missing partner, Sasha, who disappeared twelve days ago while exploring this perilous environment.
The exclusion zone itself feels like a time capsule from the past, set against a futuristic backdrop of flying cars, neon lights, and virtual computer interfaces. Inside, however, the presence of rotary phones and CRT televisions creates a striking contrast, transporting players to a melancholic reimagining of 1970s Britain.
The game captures the atmospheric tension of classic survival horror through its use of fixed camera angles and resource management. These features, reminiscent of early 2000s horror games, heighten the sense of dread and vulnerability. Hollowbody combines these traditional mechanics with a sleek, tech-noir aesthetic, resulting in a captivating blend of old-school terror and futuristic innovation. Its meticulously designed setting and visual style create a hauntingly immersive experience.
Mica fighting the residents of the exclusion zone. Screenshot by author.
Even in the demo, Hollowbody showcased rich lore on the level of its predecessors. Full voice acting enhances the emotional connection to the protagonist’s journey. As players navigate the desolate, cyberpunk city, they will encounter bizarre creatures and solve complex puzzles, echoing the atmospheric and mystery-driven aspects of Silent Hill. The game’s resource management and intense combat scenarios reflect the survival challenges of Resident Evil, intertwining lore and gameplay in a compelling manner.
Players used to modern AAA titles might overlook this game, but despite its slow storytelling, it presents a fresh, creative take on how traditional horror can evolve with new technology. It sparks curiosity and encourages exploration of its intricate world. Ultimately, Hollowbody appears to promise a gripping and terrifying journey that bridges classic survival horror with contemporary trends. By blending nostalgic gameplay elements with a futuristic setting, it aims to deliver a memorable and chilling experience that honors past horror games while introducing exciting new twists to the genre.
