The average review

Game

What sets The Medium apart from other psychological horror games is the fact that it is played in two different worlds. Players don’t just switch between the two different realms, they are both played at the same time. Being able to inhabit both worlds in this way creates some interesting gameplay moments. Players are able to solve puzzles in unique ways and essentially interact with themselves.

Players can interact with the world using a variety of different skills. Insight allows users to see the objects they can actually interact with. Meanwhile, a series of spirit-based abilities allow Marianne to overcome demons or start generators. The problem is that all of these seem rather rudimentary. They wouldn’t feel so out of place in a ten-year-old game. The Medium is a new next generation title, but you rarely hear it when playing.

Mechanics like Insight also have problems, with many highlighted elements appearing indistinguishable from other objects. This can lead to frustrating times when you’re stuck looking for the correct item to move forward.

Another big problem for many players will be the distinct lack of fear. While gamers don’t expect jumping fears from psychological horror games, there must still be some terrifying moments. The medium tries to do this with the themes it explores. But because he fails to delve into them significantly enough, their true horror is lost.