Point-and-click adventure games, though less prevalent today, remain a testament to the genre’s enduring appeal. Among them, Shivers stands out as a prime example of what’s possible when exceptional writing, masterful storytelling, a full orchestral score, and painstakingly hand-painted artwork converge. The result is a labor of love, an immersive experience, and a masterclass in atmosphere.

At its core, Shivers blends horror with intricate puzzle-solving. You find yourself trapped overnight in Professor Windlenot’s mysterious museum, a place where ancient evil spirits known as Ixupi have escaped their clay vessels. These malevolent entities now stalk mortals, seeking to drain their life force. The Ixupi conceal themselves within various elements—wood, metal, water, and more—making them a pervasive and insidious threat. To survive, you must repair the magically imbued clay pots, locate their corresponding lids scattered throughout the museum, and use them to recapture the spirits. However, Professor Windlenot, the museum’s eccentric creator, has laid a trail of mind-bending puzzles, designed to impede your progress and leave you vulnerable to the spirits’ relentless pursuit.

As you delve deeper into the museum’s labyrinthine halls, you’ll uncover a myriad of fascinating exhibits, each harboring its own set of challenges. The game’s evocative music and exquisite artwork work in concert, weaving an eerie tapestry that, despite the game’s age, will undeniably raise the hairs on the back of your neck. The constant threat of the unseen Ixupi, combined with the museum’s oppressive silence broken only by subtle environmental cues and the game’s chilling score, creates a palpable sense of dread.

What truly sets Shivers apart is its dedication to world-building. Every exhibit, from ancient Egyptian tombs to the surreal depths of Atlantis, feels lived-in and meticulously detailed. The puzzles, while challenging, are organically integrated into the museum’s lore, often requiring you to interact with the exhibits in unexpected ways. This seamless blend of narrative and gameplay ensures that every solved puzzle feels like a genuine step forward in unraveling the museum’s dark secrets. The game doesn’t just present you with obstacles; it invites you to become a part of its unsettling narrative.

Shivers’ lasting appeal lies in its ability to create a truly unforgettable atmosphere. It foregoes cheap jump scares in favor of a creeping sense of unease, a constant psychological tension that keeps you on edge. The masterful use of sound design, from the distant whispers of the Ixupi to the creaking of old floorboards, amplifies this feeling, making the museum feel like a living, breathing entity with its own sinister intentions. It’s a game that proves that true horror isn’t just about what you see, but what you feel.

At the time of this writing Shivers is just 5.99 on GOG.com – If your looking for something unique this is it so give it a try and let me know what you think in the comments!

Get Shivers on GOG.com