Dream

About Dream

Dream is a PC adventure and puzzle game released by HyperSloth on July 31, 2015. Published by Mastertronic, this single-player indie title invites you into the mind of Howard Phillips, a confused young graduate obsessed with his subconscious. The game draws heavy inspiration from classics like Yume Nikki and LSD while borrowing narrative techniques from Dear Esther and Deus Ex. You explore surreal worlds filled with puzzles and horror elements to uncover secrets about your life. It arrived on Steam as a budget-friendly option for those seeking something strange and atmospheric rather than action-packed or story-driven in the traditional sense.

Gameplay

You spend most of your time walking through bizarre, shifting landscapes that change based on Howard's mental state. The core loop involves finding keys, opening doors, and solving environmental puzzles to progress deeper into these dreamscapes. There are no combat systems or complex controls to master. Sessions feel slow as you examine every corner for clues or hidden items. You might spend an hour just trying to find a specific object to unlock a new area. The game throws in horror sections where the atmosphere turns dark and unsettling, followed by quieter narrative moments that reveal backstory through the environment. It requires patience and careful observation rather than quick reflexes or puzzle-solving speed.

What Players Think

The PlayPile community data shows a divided reaction to Dream. While Metacritic gave it a 59 out of 100, IGDB ratings sit much higher at 79.7 based on six reviews. Players seem to stick with the game for an average playtime that suggests genuine engagement despite mixed critical reception. Only 29 achievements exist, and the community struggles to find them since the average unlock rate is just 5.7 percent. The rarest achievement "Researcher" has been unlocked by only 1.10 percent of players. Community moods indicate a strong appreciation for the atmosphere but frustration with the obscure puzzles. Many users note the low price point makes it worth a try even if the game does not fully satisfy everyone.

PlayPile's Take

This title is for players who enjoy slow exploration and weird environments over fast pacing or clear objectives. At $2.69 on Steam, often dipping to $1.86, it is an easy buy for completionists. The achievement system is punishingly difficult with most unlocks sitting below 6 percent. You will find yourself stuck in loops trying to solve puzzles that the game never clearly explains. It works best if you can accept ambiguity and enjoy wandering through surreal spaces without a map. Skip this if you want a linear story or clear guidance on what to do next. The low cost justifies one playthrough, but expect little from the reward side beyond finding those elusive secrets.

Storyline

You take on the role of Howard Phillips, a young graduate with no direction in life who develops an obsession with his dreams. Discover dreams and nightmares filled with puzzles and secrets to help Howard find the meaning to his life.