Fears (video game)
Fears, also known as Fears to Fathom - Home Alone, is a short, episodic psychological horror video game developed by Rayll Studios. The game is the first in the Fears to Fathom anthology series, focusing on different stories of people who survived terrifying events.
The game puts the player in the perspective of Miles, a 14-year-old boy who is left home alone while his parents are on vacation. The gameplay revolves around completing mundane tasks around the house while a growing sense of unease and paranoia builds as Miles suspects he is not alone. The primary gameplay mechanics involve first-person exploration, observation of the environment, and making decisions based on the perceived threats.
Fears emphasizes building atmosphere through realistic settings, sound design, and subtle visual cues. The horror elements rely on psychological tension and suspense rather than jump scares or explicit gore. The player's actions and choices can affect the outcome of the game, leading to different scenarios and potential endings.
The Fears to Fathom series is characterized by its low-poly graphics and VHS-style visual filters, adding to the retro horror aesthetic. The narrative is often inspired by true crime stories and urban legends, aiming to create a sense of realism and relatability that heightens the fear factor. Each episode in the series features a unique story and protagonist, exploring different types of phobias and anxieties.