I have long been fascinated with the famous Dyatlov Pass Incident, and so when I learned that there was a game based on said incident, I had to play it.

The events are mostly shuffled off to the side in favor of fiction. Bits of story are revealed here and there as you discover notes scattered across the world And speaking of the world, I have to say that it is far too large for this type of game, especially since the in-game map can only be properly utilized at certain safe points, making it difficult, if not damn near impossible, to determine where you are at any given moment.

There is only one enemy in the game, but he can appear pretty much wherever he wants to. Deaths are also instantaneous; combat is a no-go, for whatever reason. This means that you'll spend far too much time running away from encroaching danger than you should.

Thankfully, the positive points outweigh the negative.

The location is pitch perfect; the snowy pass and darkened sky provide a perfect, oppressive atmosphere that drips with tension and menace. Even with the map issues, exploration is almost always enjoyable. The graphics and level design are excellent, making every new area you come across a joy to behold. Little easter eggs are scattered here and there. These don't have any impact on the story, but they certainly encourage exploration.

However, Kholat is still difficult to describe accurately. It's a game that really needs to be experienced on your own.

Despite all its flaws, it's still quite an enjoyable experience. I definitely recommend it.

I have long been fascinated with the famous Dyatlov Pass Incident, and so when I learned that there was a game based on said incident, I had to play it. The events are mostly shuffled off to the side in favor of fiction. Bits of story are revealed here and there as you discover notes scattered across the world And speaking of the world, I have to say that it is far too large for this type of game, especially since the in-game map can only be properly utilized at certain safe points, making it difficult, if not damn near impossible, to determine where you are at any given moment. There is only one enemy in the game, but he can appear pretty much wherever he wants to. Deaths are also instantaneous; combat is a no-go, for whatever reason. This means that you'll spend far too much time running away from encroaching danger than you should. Thankfully, the positive points outweigh the negative. The location is pitch perfect; the snowy pass and darkened sky provide a perfect, oppressive atmosphere that drips with tension and menace. Even with the map issues, exploration is almost always enjoyable. The graphics and level design are excellent, making every new area you come across a joy to behold. Little easter eggs are scattered here and there. These don't have any impact on the story, but they certainly encourage exploration. However, Kholat is still difficult to describe accurately. It's a game that really needs to be experienced on your own. Despite all its flaws, it's still quite an enjoyable experience. I definitely recommend it.