HROT is a single-player retro FPS set in a small socialist country neighboring Soviet Union (Czechoslovakia) after an unspecified disaster in 1986. Those times were dark and terrifying and so is the game.
The retro-inspired first-person shooter offers a unique and challenging gameplay experience, eschewing many modern FPS conventions in favor of an old-school approach reminiscent of classics like Quake and Chasm: The Rift.
Players can choose from a diverse arsenal, including standard pistols, shotguns, and submachine guns, as well as more experimental Soviet-era weaponry such as a rocket launcher and a battery-powered "secret experimental" weapon. Each firearm feels distinct and serves a specific purpose, with no clear "best" option. The fast-paced combat requires careful positioning and strafing to dodge enemy attacks, as ammunition and health are scarce.
While the movement may not be as frenetic as other modern boomer shooters, it still provides a satisfying and responsive experience. The lack of advanced movement techniques like bunny hopping forces players to approach combat and level navigation in a more deliberate manner, heightening the sense of tension and challenge as they explore the game's intricate, interconnected environments.
The handcrafted levels, inspired by real-world locations in communist-era Czechoslovakia, offer a unique and immersive setting. These environments are filled with interactive elements, such as destructible light bulbs, flushable toilets, and even horses wearing gas masks, which add to the game's quirky charm and sense of character.
The game does not shy away from challenging players, with higher difficulty settings resulting in scarce ammunition and health pickups. This heightens the sense of accomplishment when successfully navigating a level or defeating a particularly challenging boss. While the difficulty may initially seem punishing, many players feel it is well-balanced and adds to the overall sense of tension and atmosphere.