Sometimes it takes a nightmare to wake a place like Dahlia View. Lead the investigation into a missing child and discover the dark secret of Dahlia View in this story-driven observational thriller from the creators of The Occupation and Ether One.
The game casts players as Robert Conway, a retired detective confined to a wheelchair, as he investigates the mystery of a missing child in his Dahlia View neighborhood. The wheelchair mobility system forms a unique gameplay mechanic, forcing players to carefully navigate Conway's limited movements through the environment. Reviews indicate that while the wheelchair controls can feel clunky at first, players generally adapt to the mechanic over time and appreciate how it contributes to the overall atmosphere and challenge.
The core of the gameplay involves thoroughly observing the residents, eavesdropping on their conversations, and scouring their apartments for clues and evidence. An evidence board mechanic allows players to organize the information they've gathered, connecting clues and forming theories about the case. Reviews praise this system as an engaging and intuitive way to drive the investigation forward, requiring players to actively synthesize the information they've uncovered. While the overall narrative is linear, the investigative gameplay provides a sense of player agency, as the game trusts players to explore thoroughly and draw their own conclusions.
Interspersed throughout the investigative gameplay are various environmental puzzles that Conway must solve, ranging from mechanical challenges to more observational puzzles. Reviews suggest that the puzzles are generally logical and well-integrated into the overall narrative, complementing the detective theme, and provide a satisfying sense of accomplishment when solved.
The game is praised for its careful pacing, balancing moments of tense investigation with more contemplative, atmospheric exploration. Reviews highlight how the gameplay seamlessly supports the unfolding mystery, with the investigative mechanics and puzzle-solving directly contributing to the narrative. Players feel actively engaged in uncovering the truth, rather than passively observing a pre-determined story.