I’ve seen many chances to shave seconds off run times, but Dreamcore offers an unusual and intense challenge. Montraluz’s psychological horror game is a maze-like experience for completionists and speed runners alike. The game’s eerie stillness is both its biggest strength and its biggest weakness.
Psychological horror games often rely on dark settings and sudden scares—Dreamcore takes a different approach. It creates unease through its world, crafting a chilling atmosphere that lingers. The first-person body-cam view adds to the tension as you explore vast, unsettling spaces.
Montraluz’s gameplay design is unique. The massive, non-linear areas are fascinating but navigating them feels like solving a puzzle. However, some players find this overwhelming, comparing it to a child getting lost in a crowded store. While this sense of confusion adds to the horror, it can also be frustrating.
The lack of a clear story or strong characters might seem like a flaw, but it’s part of Dreamcore’s appeal. The focus is on exploration rather than narrative. Instead of following a plot, players uncover hidden details in its surreal landscapes.
Visually, Dreamcore is stunning—both beautiful and disorienting. The art style captures the fleeting nature of dreams, shifting between comfort and unease. This mirrors real-life experiences of liminal spaces, adding depth that many players will appreciate.
The sound design is equally impressive. Even without voice acting, the soundtrack and effects are deeply unsettling. Strange creaks and distant echoes heighten the eerie atmosphere.
Balancing difficulty is tricky in a game like this. Navigating surreal landscapes is already tough, let alone trying for record speeds. Yet, the challenge is rewarding and addictive, keeping players coming back.
Using atmosphere as its main tool for fear, Dreamcore stands out in the crowded psychological horror genre. While some players may feel lost in its abstract world, speed runners and puzzle fans will find its challenges exciting.
Despite some criticism, Montraluz and publisher Tlon Industries have created an immersive, unsettling world that sparks curiosity. With continued support and new content, Dreamcore could become a cult classic.
While it may not follow typical horror game rules, Dreamcore offers a unique, immersive, and often unsettling experience. Bringing these elements together effectively is an achievement Montraluz should be proud of. For its bold approach to space, time, and player psychology, I give Dreamcore 4 out of 5 stars.
