
Loading critic reviews...
Finding deals...
Finding live streams...
Encryptid is an indie FMV horror game that tasks you with hunting cryptids using real-world footage. Developed by Autumn Knight, it released on December 31, 2026, exclusively on PC. The game’s gimmick lies in its use of Gameboy Camera-style recordings to track and capture mythical creatures. Set in a minimalist, eerie world, it blends folklore with found-footage aesthetics. Think of it as a short, interactive cryptozoology project where you analyze grainy clips to solve environmental puzzles and corner beasts. Ideal for fans of niche horror and retro tech, it’s a 2-3 hour experience that leans heavily on its gimmick.
You navigate a map to discover cryptid locations, using a rudimentary interface to scan areas with the Gameboy Camera. Each session involves adjusting camera settings, like brightness and frame rate, to capture fleeting creature glimpses. Once footage is recorded, you analyze it to decode clues about the cryptid’s habitat, behavior, and weaknesses. The core loop mixes exploration, photo editing, and puzzle-solving. Controls are minimalistic, relying on mouse clicks and keyboard shortcuts to tweak settings. The FMV elements feel static and under-polished, but the thrill comes from piecing together cryptid patterns. Sessions often involve backtracking to refine camera angles, making the gameplay feel methodical but occasionally repetitive.
Early feedback is split: 68% of PlayPile users rate it “Worthwhile,” while 32% call it “Mediocre.” Average playtime is 2.7 hours, with 58% completing it in under 3 hours. Community moods highlight “Nostalgic” (42%) and “Confused” (29%), reflecting its polarizing charm. Critics note the $14.99 price tag feels steep for its length. Achievement data shows 73% unlock all 15 trophies, but only 22% achieve 100% completion. User reviews praise the creative concept but critique its short runtime and technical rough edges. One player wrote, “It’s like a haunted photo album, cool for 30 minutes, then it lingers too long.”
Encryptid is a niche experiment that succeeds as a curiosity but fails to sustain engagement. The Gameboy Camera gimmick is clever, but its short runtime and repetitive puzzles make it a $15 gamble. If you’re into found-footage horror and cryptozoology, it’s a quick, atmospheric diversion. Otherwise, skip it. The 15 achievements are easy to collect, but there’s little reason to replay. It’s a bold concept that’s better appreciated in theory than practice.
Game Modes
Single player
Loading achievements...
Finding similar games...
Checking Bluesky...