Bad Dream: Fever is the second of the Bad Dream Series. However, it is the first game I played and the unique game had given me a lot to think about in terms of its creativity and gameplay. So let's dive into this feverish game and what it has to bring to the table.

Story

This game is more story driven than gameplay driven. The basic outline of the story is intriguing with its post-apocalyptic sort of setting. Admittedly, this isn't the type of genre I usually latch on to as a gamer. Despite this, the game had a very interesting premise and cleverly uses a variety of ways to project the atmosphere of the game itself.

Without spoiling the mysterious game, the first thing you'll notice is the prominence of the ink-blue blotches that would crowd around the game. This had brought a unique feeling of the importance and style of the game. It sets the premise really well and you'll soon find yourself eager to see it to the end.

Gameplay

Frankly, it isn't a major part of the game. This is typically a pseudo-puzzle click and point kind of game. Despite the relatively 'weaker' gameplay, it compliments the story and atmosphere very well, instead of being the supporting aspect rather than the main feature.

If you are looking for something to test your skill or tickle your strategic mind, then this is definitely not the game for you. Another bummer is that there is little consequences of your actions, you do end up going through a linear route and as a result, expect no replayability.

Visuals

This game's unique art style paired so well with the more jarring blue-ink colours in a way that you immediately understood the atmosphere of the game. I feel it fits well with the game in that this gives you a feeling of old-school styled horror or thriller. This is perhaps one of the stronger strengths of the game as it remains prominent throughout your playthrough.

Audio

The music and sound effects gave it a gravitas of the story. It's dark, chilling and eerie. This isn't your typical jumpscare styled audio, but it nevertheless, it worked so well with the visuals that it puts another layer of immersion in a rather unrealistic setting.

One of the most interesting things about the audio is the prevalence of static and how it affects the game. In a game with limited animations, the use of the static sound effect was really well utilised as it provides a bit of an interesting aspect of the game's world.

Refinement

You won't be seeing bugs and glitches ever in this game. It is simple and elegant as it doesn't have a large number of complicated features in the game. However, its UI and tutorials could use a little more work as it isn't the most user-friendly layout, especially if you are new to the Bad Dream franchise. In a sense, this isn't a bad thing as the game itself is quite simple, but it does put a bit of a stop into enjoying the game straight from the start rather than easing your way through.

Final Verdict

This is a simple and intriguing game. If you are a fan of thrillers and minor horror, this game is right up at your alley. This is a very well done game and caters accurately to the audience targeted. For those who aren't exactly fans of the genre/franchise/style, you might find yourself a little weirded out, but it certainly can give you a rather interesting experience and it is worth a shot to play. Overall, decent game, a few minor issues here and there but they are the types to be easily ignored. A decent 3/5 stars.