Evil Diary a video game that immerses players in a grim post-apocalyptic world, delivers a distinctive yet somewhat mixed gaming experience. In this game, players take on the role of Eve, the sole human in a world overrun by a dual threat of aliens and zombies. The gameplay is primarily focused on survival, demanding players to defend against a multitude of enemies in order to progress through the levels.
Publisher: Ratalaika Games
Developer: 9Ratones, Angelo Gamedev
Release Date: Â 24 November 2023
Thanks to Publisher for the review code.
The game mechanics are straightforward, revolving around run-and-gun action in a long, corridor-like arena. Players will find themselves managing Eve’s movements using a d-pad, swiftly switching directions to combat the onslaught of creatures from either side​. The enemies themselves offer some variety, ranging from slow-moving to fast ones, some that explode upon death, and others that are invulnerable, only attacking from the fringes. This diversity in enemy types adds a layer of strategy, as players must choose whether to engage or avoid certain enemies.
One of the core objectives in Evil Diary is to eliminate a certain number of enemies per level. This goal can sometimes feel repetitive, as it doesn’t significantly vary the gameplay. The game attempts to mix things up with different scenarios, such as surviving in an elevator or during a motorbike sequence, but these moments don’t dramatically change the overall gameplay experience​.
A notable limitation of the game is the lack of variety in weaponry and power-ups. Eve, the protagonist, is equipped with a single gun throughout the game, with no options for upgrades or alternative weapons. This can make the combat feel monotonous over time. While there are other playable characters available for purchase, they are only accessible after completing a playthrough, which may not be compelling enough for some players to pursue.
The game controls are simple and functional, but the reload system is a point of contention. Players cannot manually reload; instead, they must wait for the ammo clip to be depleted before it automatically reloads, which can be inconvenient during intense combat scenarios.
The soundtrack of Evil Diary is a high point, featuring a robust mix of thrash-metal and intense sound effects that enhance the game’s atmosphere. The audio contributes significantly to the game’s immersive quality. However, the ease of gameplay and the lack of a substantial challenge might not appeal to more experienced gamers or those looking for a more demanding shooter experience. The game is suited for players looking for a more relaxed, straightforward run-and-gun experience, as it doesn’t require intense strategic planning or quick reflexes.
Final Thoughts
In summary, Evil Diary offers a simple yet engaging run-and-gun experience set in a post-apocalyptic world. While it excels in creating a compelling atmosphere with its strong audio design, the game is hampered by its lack of weapon variety and limited challenge. It’s a game that might appeal more to casual gamers or those looking for a straightforward, no-frills shooting experience​.