Centum is a psychological horror-infused point-and-click adventure puzzle game developed by Hack The Publisher and published by Serenity Forge on March 11, 2025. The game quickly captured the attention of the gaming community thanks to its unique gameplay, mysterious storyline, and haunting art style. But does Centum have what it takes to win over fans of this genre? Let’s dive into a detailed review!
A mysterious storyline
Players begin Centum as a prisoner trapped in an enigmatic dungeon. With no clear understanding of why they are imprisoned, the protagonist is forced to find a way to escape. However, from the very first moments, the game cleverly sows doubt—is escaping truly the ultimate goal? Or is it merely the beginning of something far worse?
Unlike traditional storytelling methods, Centum relies on environmental clues and cryptic dialogues for players to piece together the narrative. The story delves into themes of philosophy and psychology, raising profound questions about consciousness, memory, and reality. Abstract dialogues and unpredictable events further immerse players in the game’s eerie and mysterious atmosphere.
While the storytelling is compelling, some players may find Centum confusing, as it does not provide clear explanations. This game requires deep thought and active engagement rather than relying on direct guidance.
Puzzle-Solving, Dialogue, and Psychological Depth
Centum follows a point-and-click format, emphasizing exploration, clue gathering, and puzzle-solving to advance the story. The puzzles are not just about collecting items or unlocking doors—they are also tied to player choices.
One of Centum’s standout features is its dynamic dialogue system. Players must not only select dialogue options but also observe the protagonist’s reactions. These choices directly influence the story’s progression and impact the character’s mental state. Careless decisions can lead to darker consequences or even undesirable endings.
Additionally, the game introduces unique mechanics, such as AI manipulation, forcing players to question the nature of the character they are controlling. Is the protagonist truly human? Or are they merely a digital entity trapped in a virtual existence?
Pixel Art and a Haunting Atmosphere
Centum adopts a minimalist 2D pixel-art style that is both eerie and evocative. Every scene in the game conveys isolation and despair, enveloping players in a heavy, oppressive atmosphere. Dark color palettes and contrasting light and shadows heighten the sense of mystery, making it impossible to predict what lies ahead.
The sound design is another highlight. The ambient soundtrack, with dripping sounds, echoes in empty spaces, and chilling effects, builds tension. Sudden silences create an unsettling feeling, as if something is watching from the darkness.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
✅ A mysterious and thought-provoking narrative that encourages deep reflection.
✅ Unique puzzle-solving mechanics intertwined with psychological themes.
✅ A deep and reactive dialogue system that affects the story.
✅ Subtle psychological horror—no jumpscares, yet deeply unsettling.
Cons:
❌ Abstract storytelling may be confusing for some players.
❌ Slow pacing, not suited for action-oriented players.
❌ Challenging puzzles can be frustrating if players get stuck.
Final thoughts
Centum is a unique, thought-provoking, and psychologically intense experience. It’s not just a game for entertainment, but an introspective journey that forces players to question reality and their own existence. If you enjoy philosophical puzzle games, eerie mysteries, and nonlinear storytelling, Centum is a must-play. Thanks for reading!
