Ad Infinitum

A haunting psychological horror exploring trauma in WWI’s trenches and a cursed home.

Atmospheric Storytelling Rooted in History

Ad Infinitum, developed by Hekate and published by Nacon, crafts a unique blend of psychological horror and historical drama. Set during the chaos of World War I, the game places players in the shoes of Paul von Schmitt, a young German soldier confronted by both external horrors and internal anguish. This first-person experience unfolds across two starkly different environments: the visceral, nightmarish trenches, and the eerie, memory-haunted von Schmitt family mansion.

Diverse and Immersive Environments

The narrative unfolds over four chapters, each beginning within the grand yet unsettling family home. Players piece together fragments of the family’s history through environmental exploration and by uncovering documents, personal notes, and well-crafted puzzles. This investigative approach reveals the emotional devastation of war and its impact on each family member, making for a story as much about psychological wounds as physical ones.

The transition between the relative calm of the mansion and the harrowing hellscape of No Man’s Land stands out as a core gameplay dynamic. The battlefield is dominated by disturbing, mutated creatures that serve as terrifying embodiments of trauma and violence. Encounters focus on stealth, evasion, and item-based puzzle solving rather than traditional combat, creating a sense of helplessness and vulnerability.

Unsettling Horror and Strong Ambience

Ad Infinitum’s horror elements are deeply psychological, drawing inspiration from real-world trauma and the grotesque realities of war. Monsters are more than simple obstacles—they provide symbolic representations of Paul’s memories and fears.

The sound design and music significantly enhance the sense of dread. Creaking floorboards, distant artillery fire, and haunting melodies foster a constant atmosphere of tension. The game’s visuals impress with detailed textures and realistic lighting that bring each environment to life. Character models and creature designs are especially noteworthy, blending the horrific with the surreal.

Gameplay and Technical Performance

While players hold items like a rifle or pickaxe, direct combat is absent, emphasizing resourcefulness and puzzle-solving. Checkpoints are scattered throughout, providing reasonable save points after tense chases or puzzle sections.

Despite its atmospheric strengths, technical issues occasionally disrupt immersion. Bugs may cause the character to become stuck or certain interactions might fail to register. These glitches, while frustrating, do not overshadow the overall experience for most players.

Impactful Narrative and Themes

The game’s story excels in conveying the lasting impact of war, both on individuals and families. It handles themes of loss, PTSD, and fractured relationships with care and nuance. The narrative invites players to reflect on the real costs of conflict, moving beyond scares to offer a meaningful exploration of trauma and memory.

Conclusion

Ad Infinitum is a compelling survival horror experience that stands out for its historical setting, evocative storytelling, and atmospheric design. Despite the presence of technical flaws, the game rewards those seeking a memorable narrative-driven journey into the horrors of war.