Akai Onna | 赤い女 is a psychological J-horror game featuring a student.
The developers have done an exceptional job of creating a haunting and oppressive atmosphere, fully immersing players in a world of dread and terror. The dark, foreboding locations, combined with the unsettling audio cues - such as the chilling sounds of the woman's footsteps - effectively build a tense and eerie ambiance that heightens the psychological horror experience.
While the game primarily features first-person walking simulator mechanics, with a focus on exploration and atmosphere over complex gameplay, reviewers note that this minimalist approach suits the game's intentions well. The lack of overt gameplay challenges allows players to fully immerse themselves in the unsettling narrative, rather than being distracted by intricate mechanics.
Reviewers praise the game's narrative, inspired by Japanese urban legends, for its ability to create tension and drive player exploration. The story unfolds in a compelling, mysterious manner, with players uncovering clues and piecing together the events through environmental storytelling. The dual endings, which require careful exploration and decision-making, further add to the narrative engagement and encourage replayability.
Although the game is not considered "jump scare" heavy, reviewers highlight the effective use of psychological horror elements. The slow-paced, atmospheric approach generates a consistent sense of unease and dread, with the woman in red serving as a persistent, haunting presence. While some players felt the scares could have been more unpredictable, the overall consensus is that the horror elements are well-executed for the game's intended experience.
Reviewers note that the game's accessibility, with its relatively short playtime (around 30-60 minutes) and modest system requirements, makes it an appealing option for players seeking a quick, affordable horror experience. The ability to turn off the VHS filter and the inclusion of dual endings further add to the game's replayability, encouraging players to explore the story from different perspectives.