The next free title on theEpic Games Storemay not be a huge AAA blockbuster butits quiet subterfuge and tense decisions should entertain most players. Epic Games' attempt to establish its digital storefront to compete with the powerhouse that is Steam has leveraged itself on free games as the company dishes out a giveaway or two every week. The quality of these titles varies and while it’s unknown whether it’s been successful as an expansion tool, it has given many users an excuse to check into the store at least once a week.
Over on theEpic Games Store,the free game for the week of Nov 21 to Nov 28 is confirmed to beBeholder, a stylish management game that requires players to spy on their neighbors for a dystopian government. The game has garnered a cult following for its interesting choices and engaging setting that tasks players with surviving in a totalitarian state by any means necessary. Over on Steam,Beholderhas accrued over 19,000 reviews and holds an average rating of “Very Positive,” which is impressive for a smaller indie game.
What Is Beholder All About?
A Different Kind Of Survival
At its core,Beholderis a game about choices as players are assigned the role of State-installed apartment building managerwho must ensure the tenants are happy with the facilities. Doing so requires repairing any breakages, cleaning up, and providing decent accommodation for all renters who move in. Of course,this is more of a coverfor the protagonist’s actual job: Spy on the people living in the apartment building and share information about potential traitors with the authorities.
This is done byspying through keyholes, eavesdropping on conversations, and even rifling through tenants' belongings to find evidence that they oppose the State. Reporting these “criminals” always has consequences:Having a father arrested looks great on one’s performance record but it also leaves a child orphanedand in need of a new caregiver.Beholderasks players how far they’ll go to eke out a living in a world where everyone is paranoid, suspicious, and looking out for themselves.
Beholder 2 Review: A Dark and Intriguing Political Thriller
Beholder 2 is a unique adventure game that offers a disturbing depiction of life in a totalitarian state, picking up where its predecessor left off.
Beholder Is Bleak But Excellent
A Fantastic Game That May Be Too Heavy For Some
I’ma big fan of theBeholderseries:I’ve played all three at least once and enjoyed my time with each one. It can be a difficult game for players who may not want to ask moral questions of themselves and others; It can be draining to feel like a villain constantly. Fortunately,Epic Games' current giveaways includethe retro fun ofCastlevania Anniversary CollectionandSnakebird Complete, both of which should help lighten the mood after a tense game ofBeholder.
