Happy October! We’re officially entering the spooky season, and that naturally means it’s a perfect time for horror movies, games, and maybe even a book or two. If you’re up for a classic vampire tale with a ton of dark, lesbian subtext, I recommend checking out Carmilla if you haven’t read it yet. It’s a hidden gem that deserves more attention.
This weekend, in the spirit of spooky season, we’ve got two horror games worth your time. One takes you on a trip to an eerie mountainside village in Japan, while the other is not for the faint of heart. But if horror isn’t your cup of tea, don’t worry! There’s also plenty of great stuff here if you’re just looking for some good, clean, non-terrifying fun. Let’s dive in!
**Call of Duty: Black Ops 7**
Play it on: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Windows PCs (Steam Deck: “Unkown”)
Current goal: Do more wall-hopping
Another year, another Call of Duty. This time it’s Black Ops 7, and the beta started on October 2. I managed to snag access and played a few matches. Yup, it’s another Call of Duty alright. It feels a lot like Black Ops 6, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing since the last installment was a return to form for the franchise’s fast-paced multiplayer. The new feature of wall-hopping adds a fresh element to the gameplay, allowing you to reach hidden areas or make a quick escape during fights. Overall, I’m enjoying the BLOPS 7 beta, but I’ll need more time with the full game to decide if it’s a true standout or just another iteration of Black Ops. – Zack Zwiezen
**Silent Hill f**
Play it on: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Windows PCs (“Playable”)
Current goal: Unlock another ending
Silent Hill f’s dark aesthetic drew me in from the start. I spent last weekend diving deep into this haunting horror game and found myself thoroughly engrossed. I’ll be revisiting it again this weekend to explore more of its twisted story. Unlocking the “Fox wets its tail” ending last time was a mind-bending experience, and I can’t wait to uncover more secrets. The combat mechanics in SHf are a standout for me, and the addition of a mystical sword on the second playthrough added another layer of depth to the narrative. I’m aiming for at least one, if not two more endings this weekend, all while tackling the game’s toughest difficulty level. Who knew horror could be so captivating? – Claire Jackson
**The Repairing Mantis**
Play it on: Windows PCs (Steam Deck: “Unknown”)
Current goal: Meditate on misery
Let’s address the elephant in the room: this game comes with all the trigger warnings. Exploring themes of self-harm and animal cruelty, The Repairing Mantis is a surreal experience that delves into the darkest corners of the human psyche. Playing as a praying mantis navigating a world of despair, the game challenges you to confront uncomfortable truths through its slow-paced gameplay. While contemplating a return to this title after a hiatus, I can’t help but question my emotional readiness, especially given the current state of the world. Sometimes, immersing yourself in darkness can be a cathartic release, but remember to prioritize self-care while engaging with this intense experience. – Claire Jackson
In the gaming world, Ghost of Yotei stands out as a captivating open-world adventure set in historical Japan. With its compelling narrative and engaging gameplay, the title offers a refreshing mix of exploration and action, reminiscent of a blend between Uncharted and Ubisoft games. As I delve deeper into the world of Ghost of Yotei, its rich storytelling and immersive environments continue to impress me. Taking my time to savor every moment, I appreciate the game’s attention to detail and the sense of wonder it evokes. Plus, who can resist a video game wolf that steals the show? – Ethan Gach
As the weekend approaches, consider diving into these gaming experiences to add a touch of thrill to your October. Whether you prefer spine-chilling horror or immersive storytelling, there’s something for everyone in the world of video games. So, grab your controller, brace yourself for the unknown, and embark on a journey into the realms of digital adventure.
