The Complex: Expedition

by pgWave

The Developer Says...

When an expedition with your team into the complex goes horribly wrong, you're left alone and lost, wandering the seemingly infinite maze of hallways, otherwise known as the Backrooms. Might there be something following you?

Players Like...

❤ Immersive Exploration of Liminal Spaces

The game's core gameplay invites players to explore its eerily realistic rendition of the Backrooms - a series of nondescript, uncanny hallways and rooms. Meticulously crafted environments disorient the senses, from the disorienting geometry of the rooms to the strange, out-of-place objects scattered throughout. Every environment feels like a meticulously constructed diorama of the subconscious, compelling players to get lost in the experience. Players consistently describe a profound sense of being lost and disoriented, as if wandering through a dream. The seamless transition between familiar and unfamiliar architecture, the deafening silence punctuated by distant, indistinct noises, and the ever-present feeling of being watched all contribute to an overwhelming sense of unease and isolation.

❤ Minimal Objectives, Maximum Atmosphere

In contrast to many other Backrooms-inspired games, this title takes a more restrained, atmospheric approach. There are no jump scares, no monsters to flee from, and no inventory management or resource gathering. The sole objective is to navigate through the maze-like environments and find the exit to the next level. Many players appreciate this pared-down, exploratory approach, as it allows them to fully immerse themselves in the unsettling ambiance without the distraction of constant threats. The lack of traditional gameplay objectives forces players to rely on their senses and curiosity to guide them through the experience, ensuring the focus remains on the oppressive atmosphere and unraveling the mystery of the Backrooms through environmental storytelling.

❤ Multiple Paths and Nonlinearity

While the core loop involves moving from one level to the next, the game offers a degree of nonlinearity and player agency. Many levels feature multiple routes and branching passages, encouraging experimentation and discovery. This nonlinear design allows for a greater sense of exploration, as players can choose their own path, backtrack, and uncover hidden areas, all while maintaining the unsettling atmosphere. The ability to approach each level from different angles and find unique shortcuts or vantage points adds to the game's replayability and sense of player autonomy.

❤ Authentic Visual and Audio Design

A significant part of the game's appeal lies in its meticulous attention to visual and audio design. The use of a vintage VHS-style filter, complete with camera shake, scan lines, and analog distortion, creates a strong sense of immersion and authenticity. Players frequently comment on how the visuals seamlessly blend with the game's liminal, dreamlike environments, effectively transporting them to a bygone era. Similarly, the audio design enhances the unsettling atmosphere, with judicious use of ambient sounds, such as distant echoes, creaking structures, and the player's own footsteps. The absence of overt musical cues or sound effects heightens the impact of any unexpected noises or occurrences.

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