In the realm of indie horror, few experiences are as disquieting and thought-provoking as Assessment Examination. Developed by Wenderly Games, this interactive fiction game thrusts players into the enigmatic world of the Authenticity Assessment Department, challenging them to discern trustworthiness in a reality where appearances can be deceiving.
At its core, Assessment Examination is presented as a recruitment tool for the Authenticity Assessment Department. Players are tasked with evaluating a series of images, determining whether the individuals depicted are to be trusted or deemed threats. However, as the examination progresses, the line between reality and illusion blurs, revealing a narrative steeped in analog horror and psychological tension.
The game’s structure is deceptively simple: answer questions, assess images, and proceed. Yet, it’s within this simplicity that Assessment Examination weaves its intricate web of unease. The seemingly straightforward task of judging faces becomes a harrowing journey into the uncanny, where every decision carries weight and consequence.
Drawing inspiration from analog horror, Assessment Examination employs a minimalist aesthetic reminiscent of VHS-era visuals. The grainy textures, distorted audio cues, and unsettling imagery coalesce to create an atmosphere of pervasive dread. This stylistic choice not only pays homage to the genre but also amplifies the game’s psychological impact, immersing players in a world where nothing is as it seems.
One of the game’s most striking features is its use of AI-generated faces. These images, while superficially human, possess subtle anomalies that evoke a sense of unease. The imperfections—slightly off-kilter eyes, unnatural expressions, or asymmetrical features—challenge players’ instincts, forcing them to question their perceptions and biases.
