Loading critic reviews...
Deals
Finding deals...
Live Streams
Finding live streams...
About Hollow Stories: Lockdown
Hollow Stories: Lockdown is an indie adventure game blending survival horror and noir detective work. Developed by Hollow Sense, it released on June 30 2026 for PC and Linux. Set in a decaying metropolis gripped by corrupt officials and occult groups, the game tasks you with navigating shadowy alleys and abandoned buildings. Its neo-retro aesthetic mixes pixelated visuals with modern 3D environments. You play as a private investigator figuring out a conspiracy while evading hostile cultists and scarce resources. The single-player story focuses on exploration puzzle-solving and tense stealth encounters. It’s a game about slow-burn mystery and atmosphere over action.
Gameplay
You spend most of the game moving between claustrophobic interiors and fog-drenched streets. Puzzles often involve manipulating objects like old machinery or hacking terminals with limited attempts. Stealth is key, cultists patrol areas with detection cones that widen if you’re too loud. Combat is minimal but stressful, relying on a weak pistol and improvised weapons. Resource management matters: healing items and light sources are rare. The story unfolds through cryptic dialogue and environmental clues. Each area feels like a locked room with secrets buried in graffiti or hidden files. Sessions often involve backtracking after new items unlock access. The controls feel slightly clunky, especially for mouse-and-keyboard players.
What Players Think
PlayPile readers rate it 87% but critics average 7.4/10. Only 18% have completed the game, with 42% logging under 10 hours. Community moods are split between “tense” (68%) and “curious” (53%). One user wrote: “The atmosphere is incredible, but the puzzles feel too punishing.” Another complained: “Controls make sneaking feel like a chore.” The average completion time is 12 hours. Achievement hunters note 125 total trophies, with 30% unlocking in the first 5 hours. 22% of players rage-quit, mostly during boss encounters. The price of $19.99 splits opinions, many call it fair for the art style but not the content.
PlayPile's Take
This is a niche pick for fans of atmospheric indie horror. It excels in mood and retro visuals but struggles with polish. The short runtime and frustrating mechanics might turn off casual players. If you prioritize story and setting over tight gameplay, it’s worth the $20. Achievements add replay value but don’t fix core issues. It’s not impressive but offers a memorable, if flawed, experience. Skip if you want fast-paced action or deep combat systems.
Game Modes
Single player
Achievements
Loading achievements...
Similar Games
Finding similar games...