PGC NEWS

Daymare: 1994 Sandcastle, developed by Invader Studios, a team initially inspired to remake Resident Evil 2, finally launched on August 30th for PS5, Xbox Series, PS4, Xbox One, and PC. This retro-inspired survival horror game pays homage to classic Resident Evil titles, but does it deliver a truly compelling experience? This review explores the strengths and weaknesses of Daymare: 1994 Sandcastle.

Dalila Reyes investigating the research facility

In Daymare: 1994 Sandcastle, players assume the role of Special Agent Dalila Reyes, a former government agent now working for H.A.D.E.S. (Hexacore Advanced Division for Extraction and Search). Reyes is tasked with investigating a cutting-edge research facility within Area 51 to recover a mysterious briefcase and uncover the truth behind the deaths of the entire staff.

Classic Survival Horror Gameplay with a Twist

Daymare: 1994 Sandcastle delivers a classic survival horror experience with familiar elements: exploring eerie and unsettling locations, solving logic-based puzzles, and battling grotesque enemies. Invader Studios effectively creates a tense atmosphere through detailed environments and unsettling sound design, keeping players on edge.

Daymare: 1994 Sandcastle gameplay

One unique element is the Frost Grip, a glove capable of freezing enemies. This tool serves both combat and puzzle-solving purposes and can be upgraded for increased effectiveness against the increasingly challenging foes. Enemies themselves offer a twist on traditional zombies, possessing the ability to revive and dodge attacks, encouraging strategic use of the Frost Grip.

A Narrative and Technical Letdown

Despite its strengths, Daymare: 1994 Sandcastle suffers from significant flaws. The narrative struggles to establish character motivations and mission objectives, leaving the player feeling disoriented and questioning their purpose within the story.

Daymare: 1994 Sandcastle

Beyond the Frost Grip, the limited weapon selection (a submachine gun and shotgun) contributes to gameplay monotony, even with upgrade options. The absence of a map system further hinders exploration, making it easy to get lost, especially after breaks in gameplay.

Daymare: 1994 Sandcastle enemy

The game also employs frustrating enemy spawning tactics, with enemies frequently appearing behind the player during combat, creating cheap scares rather than genuine tension. Technical issues, including frame rate drops and lengthy loading times, further detract from the experience.

Conclusion: A Missed Opportunity

Daymare: 1994 Sandcastle offers glimpses of a compelling survival horror experience with its atmospheric environments and unique Frost Grip mechanic. However, a weak narrative, limited weapon selection, lack of a map, frustrating enemy spawns, and technical issues ultimately hold the game back. While it succeeds in paying homage to classic Resident Evil, Daymare: 1994 Sandcastle falls short of delivering a truly memorable and satisfying experience.