The Séance of Blake Manor

The Séance of Blake Manor is a first-person detective game about an investigator sent to solve the disappearance of one Evelyn Deane in a remote hotel full of secrets and otherworldly occurrences. You have to gather information, confront suspects and find out the truth within three in-game days, and be prudent not to waste too much time on dead ends. Players who enjoy narrative-rich investigative games will ponder over the many mysteries within this world… and the one beyond.

As detective Declan Ward, you collect clues and speak to a curious cast of characters in order to uncover the mystery behind Evelyn Deane’s disappearance. An ominous séance is due to take place three days after Declan’s arrival, meaning that you’re running against the clock to get to the truth. Time acts as an investigation currency you use to advance dialogue, pick up items, and perform actions. Solving the main mysteries within three days is actually a reasonable challenge; the time limit is mostly felt if you’re aiming to get every achievement.

Similar to Return of the Obra Dinn and The Roottrees Are Dead, The Séance of Blake Manor blends a complex narrative with clever puzzle design. Its semi-open world exploration has you learning to manage where and when to go to certain areas, as key actions will advance the clock. Alongside that, you will need a keen sense of observation and logical reasoning as you sift through the various clues that Declan has collected during his stay at the manor.

Being set in Ireland’s west coast, this gothic supernatural mystery touches all the right notes of the genre. Dark, moody visuals set the scene, and haunting sound effects compliment the otherworldly atmosphere. A few scenes lean into horror and may be upsetting for some players.

This description was written by Hira.