Upon watching the trailer for Tarsier Studios’ new game, Reanimal, the unmistakable DNA of Little Nightmares immediately emerges. The horror setting, the fairytale threat, and the distorted adults-turned-monsters all harken back to the eerie world of the previous games. From a long-limbed man in a threadbare suit chasing children to a gangly pursuer with a bowler hat scuttling like a spider, the initial impressions feel all too familiar. However, Tarsier manages to inject new life into the game, making it a noticeable departure from their past works.
One of the most significant additions to Reanimal is its two-player co-op feature. Whether playing locally or online, the game encourages players to go through the experience together, avoiding the easy route of split-screen gameplay. This decision aims to provide a shared, cathartic experience of facing horrors as a team. With influences from games like It Takes Two, Tarsier opts for a more minimalist approach with a directed, shared camera, allowing for curated scenes while exploring optional areas.
The core idea behind Reanimal is to blend the excitement of adventure with the thick, claustrophobic dread reminiscent of Silent Hill 2. By offering players the chance to travel by boat, discover hidden areas, and uncover the mysteries of the world alongside a crew of orphans, Tarsier aims to evoke a range of emotions from excitement to abject terror. Through the lens of a shared past, the characters and monsters in the game reflect a violent and corrupted world, as explained by narrative director David Mervik.
Centered around five orphans, Reanimal allows players to embody one of two characters: a girl in an ennui-wracked bunny mask or a boy with a makeshift sack on his head. The game’s themes revolve around defilement, corruption, and violence, creating a deeply unsettling atmosphere that draws players into the world’s twisted narrative. With a focus on vivid imagery and a sense of loneliness, Reanimal promises to deliver a unique and immersive gaming experience.
Despite the game’s departure from the fixed, side-on perspective of Little Nightmares, Reanimal maintains a sense of intentionality and focus in its design. While Tarsier has been known for concise gameplay experiences, they have never sacrificed depth or unsettlement in their creations. By embracing new mechanics, a haunting aesthetic, and a compelling narrative, Reanimal looks poised to continue the studio’s tradition of crafting perfectly formed and deeply unsettling games that leave a lasting impact on players.
Reanimal by Tarsier Studios presents a thrilling and horrifying journey into a world filled with grotesque creatures, mysterious landscapes, and a sense of impending doom. With a unique blend of co-op gameplay, immersive storytelling, and eerie atmosphere, the game promises to captivate and terrify players in equal measure. As fans eagerly await its release, the haunting allure of Reanimal serves as a testament to Tarsier’s ability to push the boundaries of horror gaming and deliver a truly unforgettable experience.