A friend recommended Sally Face to me years ago, and I'm really glad they did because it ended up becoming one of those games that sticks with you long after you finish it.
What I love most about the game is its characters. They're flawed, weird, damaged, funny, and incredibly human. The friendships feel genuine, and by the end I found myself genuinely caring about everyone. There were moments that honestly made me cry, which isn't something many games manage to do.
The atmosphere is what really pulls everything together. The art style, music, and overall presentation create this nostalgic feeling that reminds me of the early 2000s. It feels gritty and personal, like you're exploring someone's memories rather than just playing through a story. There's a sadness woven into everything, but there's also a lot of heart.
One of the strongest themes in Sally Face is how quick people can be to judge someone who looks different. Sally is a perfect example of that. Underneath the mask is one of the kindest and most caring characters in the entire story. The game constantly reminds you that appearances rarely tell the full story, and that some of the people carrying the heaviest burdens are often the ones showing the most compassion to others.
The horror elements are fantastic too. They're creepy, unsettling, and sometimes genuinely disturbing, but they never feel like they're there just for shock value. The horror serves the story and helps explore themes of trauma, grief, abuse, loneliness, and the darkness that can exist beneath everyday life. It's not afraid to show how rough life can be, but it also shows the importance of friendship, loyalty, and understanding.
Most horror games focus on monsters. Sally Face focuses on people, and that's what makes it special.
The story is incredibly well-written, emotional, and memorable. It takes risks, and while not every moment is easy to watch, that's exactly why it leaves such a lasting impact. I honestly wish there were more games like it. It feels like a love letter to alternative culture, old-school horror, and the outsiders who never quite fit in.
Rating: 10/10
We need more horror games that aren't afraid to have a heart. ♡
