[Stories to Tell] Greyville Stay draws players into a unique psychological horror experience, crafted from the vivid nightmares of its young developer, zebaxx. Set in an ordinary home that quickly spirals into an arena of eerie occurrences, the game begins with the protagonist returning from a seemingly typical day. As the evening unfolds, players discover that their familiar surroundings no longer adhere to the norms of reality. Everyday objects and spaces distort, hinting at darker secrets hidden in the mundane. This short, immersive playthrough, lasting just 15-20 minutes, is designed to capture the intense and fleeting essence of a nightmare.
Engaging Gameplay and Interactive Environment
In this first-person walking simulator, players navigate through their altered home, interacting with the environment and engaging in dialogues with NPCs that reveal pieces of the unfolding mystery. The game cleverly integrates elements like playing mini-games on an in-game PC, which adds layers to the gameplay and blurs the lines between the game’s world and reality. These interactions are key to advancing the story and uncovering the chilling changes that have overtaken the protagonist’s once-safe haven.
Distinctive Visual and Audio Design
[Stories to Tell] Greyville Stay stands out with its VHS aesthetics, which pay homage to the classic horror vibe of the ’80s and ’90s. This stylistic choice enhances the surreal and unsettling atmosphere, making the ordinary setting unnervingly unfamiliar. The dialogue between characters is pivotal, driving the narrative and deepening the sense of unease as the protagonist’s perceptions of reality are questioned. The option to change the aspect ratio in the settings menu allows players to customize their visual experience, further immersing them in the retro-horror feel of the game.