If there’s one thing South of Midnight will absolutely do, it’s stop you in your tracks to admire the view. Released today and developed by Compulsion Games (the folks behind We Happy Few), this visually stunning adventure game dives headfirst into a magical realist take on the Deep South. From the moment you boot it up, it’s clear: this is a game that wants you to feel something—mystery, wonder, and a bit of unease.

But here’s the kicker: while the game’s world is captivating and its storytelling drips with Southern folklore charm, the actual gameplay might leave some players wishing for a bit more substance.

A World You’ll Want to Live In (or at Least Explore)

Let’s start with the good stuff—because there’s a lot of it.

Visually, South of Midnight is a triumph. It blends painterly textures with vivid lighting and surreal animations to create a world that feels hand-crafted and dreamlike. Think of it as if Coraline met True Detective and they decided to take a road trip through Louisiana bayous. It’s spooky, soulful, and full of stories waiting to be uncovered.

Meet Hazel – Your Guide Through the Shadows

You play as Hazel, a young woman with a mysterious past and a gift (or curse?) that connects her to spirits and the supernatural. She’s smart, determined, and—thankfully—fun to listen to. The voice acting in this game is top-notch, and the characters you meet along the way (both living and not-so-much) feel unique and well-developed.

There’s a strong focus on storytelling and folklore here. South of Midnight pulls from real Southern myths and mixes them with original tales to create something that feels authentic but fresh. It doesn’t shy away from exploring heavy themes either—grief, legacy, and the weight of history are all woven into the story.

But What About the Gameplay?

Here’s where the beautiful shine starts to wear a little thin.

While South of Midnight nails atmosphere and story, the gameplay is… well, a bit basic. Exploration is mostly linear, puzzles are light, and the combat—though serviceable—lacks depth. If you’re the kind of player who loves fast-paced action or intricate mechanics, this game might not scratch that itch.

That said, if you’re more into narrative-driven experiences, you’ll probably be fine with the lighter mechanics. Just know going in: this isn’t Elden Ring. It’s more Firewatch meets Alan Wake, with a slower pace and an emphasis on immersion over challenge.

Magic, Mystery, and Meaning

Despite the gameplay hiccups, there’s no denying that South of Midnight is a memorable ride. It feels like a passion project—the kind of game that prioritizes mood and message over mechanics. It won’t be for everyone, but for players who crave atmosphere and a rich story, it offers something genuinely different.

It’s not trying to be the biggest or loudest game out there. Instead, it invites you to wander, reflect, and uncover ghosts—both literal and emotional.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Gorgeous visuals and world design	Shallow gameplay mechanics
Deep, meaningful story	Limited combat depth
Rich use of Southern folklore	Linear exploration

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a hauntingly beautiful world filled with folklore, ghosts, and a deeply human story, South of Midnight is worth your time. Just temper your expectations when it comes to gameplay.

It’s not a flawless journey, but it’s a meaningful one—and sometimes, that’s even better.