Video game review: The Callisto Protocol

The Callisto Protocol: A Visual Feast That Leaves You Hungry for Better Gameplay

Developed by Striking Distance Studios, this game had been on my radar for quite some time. Now that it’s free on Gamepass I gave it a try. With its promise of an intense survival horror experience set on Jupiter’s moon Callisto, my expectations were pretty high.

Graphics: A Masterclass in Horror Atmosphere

First things first, let’s talk about the graphics because, wow, this game is a visual masterpiece. From the moment you step into the Black Iron Prison, you’re enveloped in an atmosphere so richly detailed that it’s almost tangible. The lighting is impeccable, casting shadows that dance ominously across the decaying walls and rusting metal corridors. Every texture, every piece of environmental detail is painstakingly crafted to immerse you in this terrifying world. The character models are equally impressive, with facial animations that bring every emotion – from fear to determination – to life.

The use of lighting and shadows plays a significant role in building tension. The flickering lights, the eerie glow of malfunctioning equipment, and the oppressive darkness of the prison all contribute to a sense of dread that’s palpable. It’s clear that a lot of love and technical prowess went into making this game a visual delight.

Gameplay: A Stumble in the Dark

Now, let’s move on to the gameplay, which, unfortunately, doesn’t quite match the visual excellence. The Callisto Protocol’s combat system feels clunky and awkward. Melee combat, in particular, is a frustrating experience. The controls lack the responsiveness needed for the tight, tense encounters you’d expect in a survival horror game. The difficulty spikes can be punishing, but not in a way that feels fair or rewarding. Instead, they often feel like barriers that interrupt the flow of the game.

Enemy encounters quickly become repetitive. The lack of variety in enemy types means that once you’ve figured out their patterns, the initial fear gives way to tedium. This repetition undercuts the tension that the game works so hard to build through its environment and story.

The pacing is another area where The Callisto Protocol stumbles. The narrative progresses at a sluggish pace, often bogged down by backtracking and fetch quests that do little to advance the story or develop the characters. This slow burn can be effective in horror, but here it often feels like the game is dragging its feet.

Controls and UI: A Missed Opportunity

The controls and user interface also leave much to be desired. The inventory system is cumbersome, making weapon and item management more of a hassle than it should be. This clunky UI can pull you out of the immersive experience created by the game’s visuals, which is a real shame.

Final Thoughts: A Beautiful but Flawed Experience

In summary, The Callisto Protocol is a game of stark contrasts. Its graphics are among the best we’ve seen in the genre, creating an atmosphere that’s both captivating and terrifying. However, this visual brilliance is let down by gameplay mechanics that don’t live up to the same standard. If you’re a fan of stunning visuals and atmospheric horror, it’s worth experiencing The Callisto Protocol for its artistic achievements. But if you’re looking for a well-rounded, engaging gameplay experience, you might find yourself frustrated and longing for more.

I give it a 6/10.