STASIS The isometric, point-and-click, sci-fi horror adventure game! In the distant future aboard a seemingly abandoned spacecraft, John Maracheck awakes from stasis. He must push himself to new physical and emotional limits and unravel the mysteries around him.
The gameplay loop centers around exploring the derelict spaceship Groomlake, interacting with objects and computers, and solving puzzles to progress the story. Players take on the role of John Maracheck, who must unravel the mysteries surrounding his missing family.
The game features a range of puzzles that vary in difficulty. Some require simple item combinations, while others challenge players to think critically, observe their surroundings, and deduce the right solutions. Many reviewers praised the puzzles as being "challenging but fair," well-integrated into the game's environment and narrative.
The isometric perspective provides a unique vantage point, allowing players to appreciate the intricate detail and design of each location. Thorough exploration is essential, as players must uncover clues, items, and personal logs to drive the narrative forward. In addition to exploration, the game encourages players to thoroughly interact with their environment.
The inventory system is relatively streamlined, with players only able to carry a handful of items at a time. This encourages thoughtful item management, as players must carefully consider which items to hold onto and which to discard. While this occasionally necessitates backtracking, most reviewers found the inventory system to be well-balanced and conducive to the game's puzzle-solving focus.
The game maintains a strong sense of narrative urgency, consistently driving players forward to uncover the fate of John's family and the dark secrets of the Groomlake. The linear nature of the progression helps keep the pacing tight and the player engaged, even during more puzzle-heavy segments.