The Tartarus Key is a game I had initially glossed over, intimidated by the first couple of puzzles and deciding it wasn’t for me. For some reason, I decided to try once again and I’m so glad I did.

It is a very unique game. The feel is very Resident Evil 1-3, as you are trapped in a mansion and need to slowly piece together an escape. The game also has a large Saw influence, which is one of my favorite horror plots and I’ve always wanted a game to do it justice. Luckily, this one does.

There is no combat in this game, it is essentially a giant escape room. You are moving from room to room, each with a self-contained set of puzzles, to try and save the other unlucky people captured by the mysterious Tartarus society. The puzzles are top notch, each being completely fair and logical, always challenging but never impossible.

The game looks great with its wobbly PS1 graphics, and the writing and dialogue are really well done. The characters are interesting and the protagonist has a fun attitude and tons of quips.

The game is just super high quality and unique. I got stuck on a couple of puzzles, usually by overthinking. I can only think of one puzzle that felt a little unfair, but that’s still an outstanding batting average. If a puzzle-only resident evil/saw mashup with great writing and puzzle design seems up your alley, absolutely grab this one.