Square Enix’s chokehold

Weapons aren’t easy to come by in Atomfall—unless you’re on an Outlaw murder spree. But since that usually ends in a game over, it’s best to source your early weapons from safer places. As you’ll soon discover, resources are scarce in Rebellion’s survival game. You’ll be scrambling for ammo, alcohol, and weapons throughout your entire playthrough. That scarcity is especially brutal in the early game, mainly if you’re left to fend for yourself in this wasteland without a ranged weapon.

Atomfall offers as much freedom as you want when it comes to exploring its world—once you’re out of the quarantine zone, you can go anywhere you like. As much as we love open exploration here at BA, we’ve also fallen into the trap of leaving the starter areas way too early, only to watch our game-over count skyrocket. That freedom is both a blessing and, if mishandled, a curse.

If you’re looking into Scarlet Hollow, there’s a strong chance that its distinct, hand-drawn aesthetic – or maybe Black Tabby Games’ other work, Slay the Princess – has already grabbed you by the collar. And if so, good. Because you’re in for one hell of a ride. I’m here to do my absolute best to tell you why this horror visual novel is absolutely worth your time – without spoiling too much. But fair warning: much like Scarlet Hollow itself, I make no promises about your safety.