I made one more trip to the DreadXP booth before I departed from PAX West 2024 to try Heartworm. This indie horror was at PAX East earlier this year; however, I was told that this was a new demo with several improvements. So, let’s dive in.
For those still unfamiliar with Heartworm, this OG Silent Hill and Resident Evil inspired game follows Sam who is grieving the loss of loved ones, but while chasing down hope to see them again, she finds herself among supernatural horrors. Sam enters a strange world, armed with a camera, filled with memories.
Heartworm retains this 90s survival horror style but allows options for modern controls (e.g. you can play with tank controls or “modern” controls). It’s the perfect way to enjoy old school horror with ease. Roads were blocked off. Doors were locked. Eerie lights glow from other rooms. Enemies slowly drag themselves toward you while you navigate through fixed camera angles that really set the mood…
The demo included traveling through an abandoned neighborhood with only static-filled enemies and mounds of VHS tapes. The world pulled me in immediately as I tried every door and explored every nook. The route was relatively linear, but it invited exploration. After finding the house key, I explored a flooded house and solved some puzzles that led me to a funeral home. Combat is optional, and I did my best to conserve my film for the spider boss…
Overall, Heartworm was a thrilling trip down memory lane of those 90s horror video games; however, it retained its own identity, one that I am looking forward to in the future.
Heartworm is developed by Vincent Adinolfi and is set to release on Steam sometime in 2025. There is a demo available on Steam as well, so check it out. Lastly, feel free to view the trailer if this story interests you:
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Featured Image Credit: Vincent Adinolfi
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