Close to the Sun
Oct 29, 2019 7 years ago
Close to the Sun is a story-driven horror game that takes place at the turn of the 20th century on a mysterious ship complex created by Nikola Tesla for the sake of knowledge. In this alternative version of history, his scientific breakthroughs have already had a major impact on the world. You’re a young journalist looking for your sister and, as you approach this enormous and glorious complex for the first time, you quickly realize that something there has gone horribly wrong..."
What it’s like
Close to the Sun is a first-person narrative adventure that prioritizes immersive atmosphere and slow-burn tension over mechanical complexity. Set in an alternate-history 1897 aboard Nikola Tesla’s mysterious floating laboratory, the Helios, players assume the role of a journalist searching for her sister. The experience feels like a high-production 'walking simulator,' where the core loop revolves around leisurely exploration, environmental puzzle-solving, and uncovering a dark mystery through scattered clues. Visually, it blends steampunk aesthetics with Lovecraftian horror, creating a sense of awe that quickly curdles into dread. The pacing is deliberate, designed to keep players on edge through psychological unease rather than jump scares alone. While the narrative hook is strong and the audio-visual presentation is polished and evocative, the gameplay remains lightweight. It is less about skill-based challenges and more about absorbing a rich, eerie world where the environment itself tells the story of scientific hubris gone wrong.
Strong in Atmosphere / MoodAudio / MusicExploration / WorldPacingStory / NarrativeVisuals / Art
Keep in mind The game lacks substantial mechanical depth or replayability, relying heavily on its linear narrative path which may feel short for some players. Its 'walking simulator' roots mean it offers minimal challenge, potentially frustrating those seeking robust puzzle complexity or action-oriented gameplay.
AI-generated from catalog data, informed by reviews from ign.com, metacritic.com, rockpapershotgun.com, mkaugaming.com, opencritic.com.
Screenshots
Releases
| Platform | Region | Type | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| PC (Microsoft Windows) | Worldwide | Full release | May 02, 20197 years ago |
| Nintendo Switch | Worldwide | Full release | Oct 29, 20197 years ago |
| PlayStation 4 | Worldwide | Full release | Oct 29, 20197 years ago |
| Xbox One | Worldwide | Full release | Oct 29, 20197 years ago |
