In the world of video games, Compulsion Games' upcoming title, South of Midnight, stands out with its unique blend of visual style and engaging gameplay. Set in the mystical town of Prospero, this game follows Hazel, a young Black woman with magical abilities, as she searches for her mother amidst a hurricane-ravaged Southern Gothic landscape. While the game's stop-motion animation effect aims to create an artistic atmosphere, it occasionally struggles with consistency, particularly in framerate. Despite these challenges, the game offers a richly detailed world filled with surreal beauty and intriguing characters.

A Journey Through Prospero's Enchanted Swamps

South of Midnight unfolds in the heart of the American Deep South, where the swamps of Prospero are alive with golden hues and surreal life forms. The protagonist, Hazel, navigates this world using her Weaver abilities—manipulating the threads of reality to uncover hidden paths and battle supernatural foes. The game’s environment is not just a backdrop but a living entity that interacts with Hazel, from towering cypresses to car-sized peaches floating in murky waters. Hazel's movements through this world are fluid and natural, creating a parkour-like experience that feels both familiar and fresh.

The game introduces players to eccentric locals and magical creatures, each adding depth to the story. One memorable encounter involves Hazel chasing the ghosts of two brothers, whose tragic tale is told through haunting folk music. Combat takes place in contained stages, where Hazel faces off against various types of haints—ghostly enemies with distinct attack patterns. Her arsenal includes basic attacks, dodges, and four magical abilities that allow her to manipulate the environment to her advantage.

A Journalist's Reflection on South of Midnight

As a journalist who has followed Compulsion Games since their debut with Contrast in 2013, I find South of Midnight to be a fascinating evolution of their storytelling and visual style. The game's ambition is commendable, especially given the studio's newfound resources under Xbox Game Studios. However, the inconsistent stop-motion effect remains a concern. While the idea of mimicking stop-motion animation is innovative, its execution can sometimes feel erratic, detracting from the immersive experience.

Despite these technical hurdles, South of Midnight shines in its world-building and character development. Hazel's journey through Prospero is filled with moments of discovery and emotional resonance. The game’s blend of dark, surreal beauty and bluesy soundtrack creates an atmosphere that lingers long after the controller is put down. For fans of Compulsion Games or anyone looking for a unique gaming experience, South of Midnight promises to deliver a memorable adventure when it releases on April 8.