Modern survival horror games often try to capture the essence of classic titles from the ‘90s, but sometimes they miss the mark. Crow Country, a game available on the Nintendo Switch, manages to successfully blend old-school aesthetics with modern conveniences. Developed by SFB Games, known for Snipperclips, this horror homage takes place in a dilapidated amusement park and follows Mara Forest, a special agent investigating mysterious occurrences.
Unlike early survival horror games with clunky controls and fixed camera angles, Crow Country offers full 360-degree movement and a rotatable isometric camera. This allows players to explore the world thoroughly, uncovering hidden items and creatures. The game features a variety of weapons to combat the creepy ‘Guests’ in the park, with shooting mechanics that give players full control over their aim.
While not an easy experience, Crow Country provides opportunities to enhance survival chances through the discovery of items like Med Kits and ammo boxes. The game strikes a balance between challenge and support, offering hints and useful items while maintaining a suitable level of difficulty. However, environmental traps can be frustrating and potentially disrupt progress.
Despite minor issues like delayed screen transitions and frustrating traps, Crow Country excels in delivering a retro-style survival horror experience that feels both nostalgic and fresh. The blocky visuals and eerie sound effects create a creepy atmosphere, immersing players in the world of the amusement park. Overall, Crow Country is a compelling game for fans of classic survival horror and newcomers alike, offering a blend of old and new elements that keep the gameplay engaging and enjoyable.