Trenches PS4/5 Review

War games have been popular in the gaming community over the years with some big titles like Battlefield taking us there. Now in 2023 thanks to Indie publisher Ratalaika Games we get to play Indie Developer Steelkrill Studio take on the story of World War One in their game Trenches. The game offers the gamer the experience of virtually being during a time of uncertainty to give a glimpse of a world we never got to experience.

War, What is it Good For?

Trenches is a first-person shooter which is set in the year 1917 and by now the war is in full swing. The environment is set in the trenches and this is where you begin the game. The main aim of the game is to escape the maze of trenches and collect nine dolls as you run around looking for a way out. As you progress you will find clues and also bits of a story that builds up a picture of what is happening and this is what gives it a feel of a more horror experience of what war was like.

The game plays like Everybody Gone To the Rapture in that you don’t attack or fight, but just explore and solve puzzles. There is a scary monster that stalks you and you must be mindful of this and use stealth so you don’t attract attention and you end up making him angry and attack you. And if you get caught then it is game over and you go back to the beginning and start all over again.

However not everything is doom and gloom and you do get some help to navigate the trenches. This comes by the way of a map to see where you are going and some wire cutters to open routes to get out. And if my stalker is getting too close for comfort then there are various hiding spots to take a rest and stay safe, which is a good thing. Also there are a few jump scares in the game and to be honest these really does add to the suspense and atmosphere by having things appear in front of you from nowhere. You can turn these off, but then the game being boring.

The visuals are good, but there is not really anything that is going to make you go wow. But given the fact that it is a budget title and only one developer they are pretty great and adds to the story and atmosphere. The inclusion of real photographs from around the WW1 era is a great touch and add to the feels, along with the creepy monster and jump scares the whole package is complete. Then you add in the sounds of baby cries and scratching from Mr Stalker and you get a real scary experience that is fun, even if short.

Final Thoughts

Trenches is a short, fun game that offers the virtual experience of the horrors of World War One. While the graphics might not be award winning, the game is made up of various aspects and elements rather than just one thing. If you go into this with a open mind and don’t expect the same as a AAA title then you will be pleasantly surprised at how good this Indie title actually is. Worth checking out.