Cooking Companions

by Deer Dream Studios

The Developer Says...

Unravel the mystery in this cute psychological horror VN, set deep in the woods of the Tatras Mountains. Will you wind up on the chopping block?

Players Like...

❤ Narrative Gameplay

The game drops players directly into the setting, forgoing a lengthy introduction, and instead gradually reveals the backstories and motivations of the diverse cast of characters. Through dialogue choices and exploration, players uncover the growing sense of dread and unease that permeates the cabin in the woods. Reviewers praise the game's ability to slowly build tension and a feeling of unease, without relying heavily on cheap jumpscares. Instead, the game uses atmospheric sound design, ominous foreshadowing, and an unsettling sense of the unknown to create a pervasive psychological horror. Players report feeling invested in uncovering the truth behind the characters' plight, as the story subverts expectations and delivers surprising twists.

❤ Branching Paths and Replayability

The game features a branching narrative with multiple endings, encouraging players to replay the experience to uncover the full scope of the story. While the core narrative remains largely the same across playthroughs, the choices players make can lead to distinct character interactions, relationship developments, and ultimately, divergent conclusions. The inclusion of Steam achievements tied to completion of various tasks and character interactions further motivates players to experiment with different dialogue options and explore alternate paths, deepening their understanding of the game's lore and mysteries.

❤ Cooking and Resource Management

As the group's de facto chef, players must carefully ration the limited supplies and make decisions about how to best utilize the available ingredients. Reviewers note that the cooking-focused mechanics, while not overly complex, provide a satisfying and thematic addition to the overall experience. The ability to unlock and access various vegan recipes further reinforces the game's commitment to its narrative themes and setting.

❤ Atmospheric Presentation

The charming, yet slightly unsettling, character art style complements the game's blend of cuteness and horror. Meanwhile, the atmospheric sound design, including unsettling background noises and a haunting musical score, contribute significantly to the sense of dread and unease that permeates the narrative. The game's use of contrasting tones, with the initially innocuous setting and characters gradually giving way to a darker, more sinister atmosphere, is cited as a key strength in immersing players within the game's psychological horror narrative.

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