In the review of South of Midnight, the game's striking visuals and captivating sound design are highlighted, showcasing rich environmental details and a unique score that enhances the experience. However, the gameplay has been criticized for repeating combat routines and simplistic puzzles that detract from the overall enjoyment. Players embody Hazel, a Weaver tasked with healing traumatic histories in the deep South while encountering underrepresented folklore. The combat system faces issues, including repetitive enemy encounters and clunky mechanics that can interrupt the game’s narrative flow. Despite its artistic merits, South of Midnight struggles with engaging gameplay, leaving a sense of disappointment among players who hoped for a more rewarding experience.

What are the main issues with gameplay in South of Midnight?

The main issues include repetitive combat encounters, simplistic puzzle designs, and a frustratingly rigid combat system that can disrupt the narrative flow, leading to a less engaging overall experience.

South of Midnight is developed by Compulsion Games, known for their previous title We Happy Few, which explored similar themes of trauma and societal issues. This new game delves into Southern folklore, weaving tales often overlooked in mainstream narratives. The protagonist, Hazel, embodies a magical healer who navigates both the beauty and darkness of her culture, seeking to uncover her missing mother while addressing generational trauma. The artistic style mirrors stop-motion animation, further enriching the experience, although gaming mechanics have proven to be a weak point in this ambitious title.