Silver Pines is a great survival horror throwback with an unexpected Metroidvania twist, but it makes me glad the genre's moved on

Silver Pines is a survival horror game with Metroidvania elements that pays homage to Twin Peaks, creating a unique blend of eerie atmosphere and exploration. However, the game's save system, coin-based mechanics, and punishing resource scarcity make it difficult to enjoy the experience fully.

The game begins in a 1950s diner, with the protagonist, Red Walker, a jittery private investigator, who is oblivious to the town's secrets. As Red navigates the town, he encounters enigmatic characters and disturbing events, all set against a backdrop of rotoscoped visuals and a haunting synth soundtrack. The game's exploration is reminiscent of Metroidvania titles, with new areas accessible through tools and abilities acquired throughout the game.

While the game's aesthetic and ambience are captivating, the coin-based save system and resource scarcity prove to be significant drawbacks. The constant need to manage coins for saves, ammo, and other resources creates a sense of endless pressure, making the experience more tedious than immersive. This design choice, meant to evoke the survival horror genre's tension, instead detracts from the enjoyment of the game.

Despite its nostalgic appeal and innovative gameplay, Silver Pines ultimately feels like a relic of the past. The developer's attempt to capture the essence of classic survival horror while incorporating modern elements results in a game that is frustrating rather than satisfying. The author expresses relief that the genre has moved on, as the limitations imposed by the coin system hinder the overall immersion and enjoyment.