Substation (video game)

Substation is a survival horror video game developed and published by Psyop Games, released in 2019 for PC. The game is set in a remote, underground research facility, implied to be located in Antarctica, and focuses on the player character's struggle to survive a hostile environment and unknown threats following an unexplained incident.

Gameplay centers around resource management, exploration, and puzzle-solving. Players must scavenge for limited supplies such as batteries, medical kits, and key items to progress through the facility and uncover the narrative. Darkness plays a significant role, with players relying on their flashlight and limited power sources to navigate the claustrophobic corridors.

The primary threat in Substation comes from genetically modified creatures, often referred to in-game as "Substations," that have escaped confinement. Players must use stealth and cunning to avoid confrontation, as direct combat is often disadvantageous due to limited ammunition and the creatures' resilience. The game also incorporates psychological horror elements, utilizing unsettling sound design and visual cues to create a tense and unnerving atmosphere.

The narrative is revealed through environmental storytelling, collectible documents, and audio logs scattered throughout the facility. These elements gradually unveil the history of the research conducted at the substation, the nature of the experiments, and the events leading up to the game's present-day scenario. The game offers multiple endings depending on the player's actions and choices made during the playthrough.