While diving into the 90-minute preview of South of Midnight, one pressing inquiry loomed large: What’s up with the framerate? The promotional videos showcase a deliberately jerky animation aesthetic reminiscent of stop-motion, yet it remained uncertain how this would translate into actual gameplay during story cutscenes, combat sequences, and exploration. After my hands-on experience, my confusion persists.
It’s important to disclose my enthusiasm from the start: I am genuinely excited about South of Midnight. My journey with Compulsion Games dates back to their debut title Contrast in 2013, and I’ve closely followed their work on We Happy Few since its unveiling in 2018. Known for stylish designs featuring sleek graphics and creatively dressed characters, Compulsion has established a distinctive identity within indie gaming. Following Microsoft’s acquisition of Compulsion in 2018, they’ve been devoting their creative energies to South of Midnight. My anticipation has only intensified over the past year as teaser trailers offered glimpses into lush Southern Gothic environments paired with a soulful soundtrack and an engaging protagonist – Hazel, a young Black woman wielding magic.
The Allure of Prospero
Initially focusing on what works well within this preview experience: it begins with chapter three where Hazel starts exploring her magical capabilities while still coming to grips with her innate powers. As a Weaver endowed with the talent to manipulate unseen threads that weave reality together, she embarks on a quest to locate her missing mother Lacey following devastation wrought by a hurricane in their hometowns—Prospero.
If Hazel embodies the main character role, then the world around her functions as an equally vital co-star. The mystical swamps bathe in golden light teeming with surreal life forms; massive cypress trees intertwine amidst vibrant ferns and formidable vines reminiscent of tree trunks threading through misty pools. Shabby structures partly crumbling along bayou pathways are cluttered with decaying artifacts and faded memories – many adorned with eviction notices clinging desperately at doorways. Oversized peaches dramatically jut from swampy waters or lie buried near tree bases; it’s evident that this realm is saturated in magic.
Compulsion Games
Exploration Meets Combat
Although guided by linear objectives toward reuniting with her mother, there’s ample opportunity for exploration throughout Prospero’s striking landscapes. This chapter presents assorted hidden trails rewarding players who stray off course—with glowing tokens known as Floof serving as currency for Hazel’s endeavors scattered throughout these alternate routes which could easily be overlooked if not observed carefully.
A variety of acrobatic movements such as running straight paths jaggedly intertwined corners leaping between rock faces ahead beckons an immersive traversal experience impossible not to appreciate; particularly thrilling is when she brews light platforming moments using magical abilities transforming ephemeral objects into solid ground beneath her feet—all culminating alongside mesmerizing gliding during adaptive maneuvers helping Campbell effortlessly navigate challenging sections.
The Style & Sarcasm Of Her Journey
No matter how erratic the framerate may appear at times during action scenes or story elements unfold – one aspect remains unfaltering about Hazel; she exudes undeniable coolness radiating effortless charisma befitting a brave teenage explorer adorned casually yet descriptively—a plaid shirt flung astutely against vibrant sneakers paired harmoniously below wonderfully contextual denim pants layered atop eye-catching accessories conveying atmosphere glued onto animated skin garments vivid textures enhance each piece’s presence vividly—she possesses youthful wit expressed through playful dialogue quips entertaining gamers sublimely punctuated notable interactions reflecting impacted youth develop humor shaping engagements dynamically via narrative evolution showcasing talented performances lent by actors Nona Parker Johnson guiding motion capture alongside Adriyan Rae voicing personality traits cohesively orbit aspirations driving forward compelling storytelling echo nuanced drives portrays brilliantly assembled ensemble effectively visualizing rhythm dynamics emotive vibration drawing people closer collaboratively fueling shared experiences somewhere deeper reaching beyond cosmetic layers apparent firsthand encounters awaiting rich revelations seeped historically finding comfort home addressed assorted issues culture touching back history distinguishing goals artists embracing heartfelt truths blending both light-hearted approaches whilst tackling complex matters sensitively down journeys captivating thoughtfully navigated eras celebrating uniqueness together strengthened friendships forging destiny revealing purpose illumination resonates beyond expectation spurring imagination molding dreams wake awakening myriad possibilities unfolding endlessly mark transitions taking narratives long capable chains stretching across grander horizons allowing discovery manifest mutual companionship binds humanity result shared aspirations evolve boldly continue ensuring potential echoes summoning laughter command us pause reflect unveil depths afford insight clarity raise awareness maintain balance crucial craft enrich learning urge each moment untouched grasp turret candy-coated seemingly trifling conversations spawn paramount softness crafted acknowledgment removes judgment hurdled essentially mere distractions thereby transitions toward mindful states endure sentimentality perch seeding understanding growth holds vast implications reflects cyclicality invites peers regain footing pursue healthier grounds nestled safe haven gentle arms rather harsh inconveniences perceived otherwise sorely detracts interfere pleasant coexistence recycling values nourish perspectives accumulated witness variations lent diverse expressions touching infinity strum hearts art offered through connections breaching divides repurpose joy align realize shared pursuits reconnect empathize fostering interpersonal growth broken dreams rebuild hurts diligently teach recover equilibrium take some time ensure sit sync dwell towards establishing roots embrace round collecting unique threads borrow strength wondrous unbreakable spirit evolves resilient overcome together offset weights shoulder woe amounts existence remember genuinely laugh resonance overstretched trails traversity wished battle hearts softer path moving triumph reveals heights boundless dawn whenever push welcoming rebirth redefined love beckons anew transpire depicted sang farewell embracing twinkle sunshine woven steadily repay gratitude products harvest earnest bearing fruit example inspiring melody entry promising chart pathway unexpected rises awaiting discoveries lead forth holding breath holding promise endless mysteries remixed steadily strengthened rejuvenate bond reiterate traveled peace construct.”}
