[PREVIEW] FATHER – Thou Shalt Not Doom Thy Family

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For some films, it would be fantastic to be transported into the world they depict and experience the story firsthand. However, I would venture to say that most of us would not want to find ourselves in the middle of the events portrayed in The Witch from 2015. And that’s exactly what awaits us in the demo of FATHER, a psychological horror game heavily inspired by Robert Eggers’ production, but following its own path in often surprising directions. 

A twisted life simulator 

In FATHER, we follow a family that has isolated itself from the outside world in search of salvation. Players take on the role of Caleb, the head of the family, who introduces strict rules, raises his children in discipline, and maintains the household according to God’s commandments. However, in silence and seclusion, tension gradually builds, and familiar things become increasingly disturbing. 

The demo takes about 20 minutes to complete, although it makes the most of every second to deliver a powerful dose of intense experiences. After a concise exposition in the form of several scenes presented on a revolving theater stage, we are brutally drawn into a world clearly reminiscent of the realities of 17th-century Puritan New England. 

Our daily life revolves around two dimensions: work and religion, which is reflected in gameplay that consists mainly of giving orders to family members and then moving around the house to supervise the tasks assigned to them (and to consistently put them down). There are fewer moments in the demo where we take specific actions ourselves, but they make up for it by always involving some aspect of horror, thus requiring the player to make decisive decisions, sometimes even under time pressure. 

Folk Horror: PS1 Edition

Speaking of evoking fear, FATHER appears to be a production that will be of particular interest to fans of folk horror. The combination of isolation, amplified by the dark forest surrounding us, and the religious fanaticism emanating from our character helps create an unsettling atmosphere, accompanied by a constant feeling of being watched. But don’t be fooled – FATHER isn’t the kind of subtle horror game that hides its spine-chilling moments in the shadows or beneath a thick layer of metaphors. Get ready to be startled, confused, and disgusted, because every bit of suspense has its payoff, and all the monstrosities are served up to us on a platter – sometimes even shoved right in our faces. 

Another aspect that plays a significant role in introducing players to the nature of this game is the graphics. With its low-poly retro aesthetic reminiscent of PS1 titles, it evokes a sense of antiquity and perhaps even nostalgia – feelings that are, however, overshadowed by an intense sense of unease. In addition, we find ourselves in a world dominated by darkness and faded colors, so every time a blood-red accent appears, it immediately alerts us to be on our guard. 

Should you believe your own eyes?

Given its theme and narrative direction, FATHER is not particularly groundbreaking, as similar productions have already been released. At least that would be the case, were it not for a very significant reveal that took place in the demo, and which completely changes the way the whole thing is perceived. On the one hand, I’m pretty skeptical about revealing such a major plot twist this early on, but on the other hand, it will only heighten players’ curiosity even more, as it opens up the possibility of treating them to a whole new level of madness. It remains to be seen how this potential will be utilized in the final version. 

At this point, FATHER emerges as a promising exploration of the tension between faith, fear, and human frailty. When we take on the role of a difficult and unlikable character, we face the challenge of uncovering the truth, which in this case may go beyond our initial assumptions. Since the game is listed as “coming soon,” it’s quite possible that players won’t have to wait long to be able to immerse themselves in this nightmarish scenario. Therefore, it’s worth checking out this title, whether you’re drawn to its folk horror-infused plot, its oppressive atmosphere, or even the recreation of the Willem Dafoe looking up meme in the promotional artwork.