Estranged: The Departure follows the story of a fisherman, stranded on a mysterious island during a violent storm. Little does he know his adventure has just begun, and the island is home to more than it first seems.
Players can thoroughly search the game world, interacting with a variety of items, computers, and audio logs scattered throughout the environments. This encourages players to uncover the narrative at their own pace, as these interactive elements provide clues and details about the island's history and the Arque Corporation's activities.
The game features well-designed puzzles of varying complexity, which players must solve to progress through the story or access new areas. Reviewers note that these puzzles are satisfying to figure out, without being overly difficult.
While combat is not the primary focus, players can defend themselves against security guards and infected creatures using a variety of guns and melee weapons. The gunplay, while not particularly deep or refined, is functional, with some reviewers noting a "flat" feel to the combat.
The game excels at creating a palpable sense of unease and uncertainty, thanks to the isolation of the island setting, the eerie environments, and the looming threat of the Arque Corporation. Reviewers consistently praise the game's ability to establish a tense and engrossing atmosphere.
Reviewers have highlighted several unique mechanics not commonly found in other first-person games, such as the ability to pick up and manipulate objects in the environment, as well as the inclusion of arcade-style minigames and shorts.
The game offers a range of accessibility and customization options, including support for controllers and the ability to adjust various visual and audio settings. These features allow players to tailor the experience to their preferences and needs.