Cursed Mountain Review

Wed Jun 30. 2021

Venturing into the Unknown: A Cursed Mountain Review

Cursed Mountain, developed by Sproing Interactive Media and published by Deep Silver, is a unique and atmospheric survival horror game that takes players on a chilling journey to the treacherous peaks of the Himalayas. Released in 2009 for the Wii and later for PC, Cursed Mountain offers a refreshing take on the horror genre, combining elements of exploration, puzzle-solving, and supernatural encounters. In this review, we will delve into the eerie world of Cursed Mountain and examine its strengths, weaknesses, and overall gaming experience.

Set in the late 1980s, Cursed Mountain follows the story of Eric Simmons, a mountaineer in search of his missing brother, Frank, who disappeared while climbing the legendary Chomolonzo mountain. As Eric makes his way through the desolate and dangerous landscapes, he encounters paranormal phenomena and battles malevolent spirits, unraveling a haunting narrative deeply rooted in Tibetan mythology and spiritualism.

One of the standout features of Cursed Mountain is its atmospheric and immersive presentation. The game effectively creates a sense of isolation and dread through its detailed and haunting environments. From snow-covered mountain peaks to ancient monasteries, each location is meticulously crafted, transporting players into a world shrouded in mystery and foreboding. The use of atmospheric sound design and eerie ambient music further enhances the game's chilling atmosphere, heightening the sense of tension and unease as players progress.

The gameplay mechanics in Cursed Mountain are a mix of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat. As Eric Simmons, players must navigate treacherous terrains, uncover hidden secrets, and decipher cryptic puzzles to advance. The game's emphasis on exploration encourages players to immerse themselves in the intricate environments, searching for clues and uncovering the truth behind the mountain's curse.

Combat in Cursed Mountain is an intriguing blend of physical and supernatural encounters. Players must utilize traditional mountaineering tools, such as ice axes and pickaxes, to fend off hostile spirits and protect themselves. The combat mechanics are relatively simple but effectively capture the desperation and vulnerability of the protagonist in the face of supernatural threats. Additionally, the use of spiritual powers, earned through progress and exploration, adds a strategic element to the gameplay, allowing players to harness supernatural abilities against their spectral adversaries.

While Cursed Mountain's immersive atmosphere and intriguing storyline are its strongest aspects, the game does have a few shortcomings. The controls, particularly on the Wii version, can feel somewhat clunky and imprecise at times, detracting from the overall experience. Additionally, the pacing of the game can be slow, with lengthy sections of exploration and minimal action. This deliberate pacing may appeal to players seeking a more atmospheric and methodical horror experience, but it may test the patience of those looking for more immediate thrills.