Review by Jon Donnis
KARMA: The Dark World is a first-person cinematic psychological thriller that throws players into a world of espionage, surveillance, and mind control. Set in 1984, the game follows Roam Agent Daniel McGovern as he investigates crimes on behalf of the powerful Leviathan Corporation. What begins as a routine case quickly unravels into something far more sinister, forcing Daniel to question everything he knows, including his own identity. The game blends elements of psychological horror with investigative gameplay, challenging players to explore fragmented memories, solve complex puzzles, and uncover a truth that is deliberately obscured.
Leviathan Corporation rules with an iron grip, using artificial intelligence and behavioural conditioning to maintain absolute control. Sounds a bit like the UK Labour Party Government! Employees are drugged to ensure maximum productivity, and the omnipresent AI system known as Mother dictates every aspect of life. Daniel's role as a Roam Agent gives him access to crime scenes, suspect interrogations, and the unique ability to dive into people's minds to relive their past experiences. This mechanic creates a constant sense of uncertainty, as the line between memory and reality blurs. The game's world is bleak and oppressive, with haunting environments, eerie soundscapes, and a strong sense of paranoia that builds throughout. The environmental storytelling is impressive, with newspapers, posters, and computer logs offering clues about the dark truth behind Leviathan's rule.
The gameplay is heavily focused on investigation and puzzle-solving rather than action. Players must gather evidence, reconstruct fragmented memories, and complete tasks assigned by Leviathan while remaining unnoticed.
The puzzles are well-designed, requiring logic and attention to detail, but their difficulty can sometimes be frustrating due to the lack of a hint system. Some players may find themselves stuck for long periods, forced to search for solutions online. Another drawback is the unskippable cutscenes, which can make replaying sections tedious. The game also leans heavily into the walking simulator genre, which may not appeal to those looking for a more action-packed experience.
Visually, KARMA: The Dark World is striking, with detailed environments and a distinct atmosphere that reinforces its unsettling themes. The game's soundtrack is equally impressive, using ambient soundscapes to heighten the tension and mystery. Every element, from lighting to sound design, works together to create an immersive experience that keeps players engaged. The story is its strongest aspect, weaving together themes of control, identity, and fear in a way that keeps you questioning what is real. The fragmented narrative jumps between different time periods, slowly revealing the hidden truths behind Daniel's past and Leviathan's true purpose.
Despite its flaws, KARMA: The Dark World is a compelling psychological thriller that succeeds in drawing players into its nightmarish vision of the future/alternate past?. The challenging puzzles, gripping story, and immersive atmosphere make it a worthwhile experience, though the lack of puzzle hints and the slow pacing may test some players' patience. Those who enjoy investigative horror games with deep storytelling will find plenty to appreciate, even if the journey is sometimes frustrating.
Score: 7/10
Out Now on Steam
