In a year filled with blockbuster releases, a PC-exclusive indie title has quietly emerged as one of the finest detective games ever made. The Séance Of Blake Manor, from Irish developer Spooky Doorway, is a paranormal whodunit that masterfully blends logical deduction with supernatural intrigue, earning a top-tier score of 9/10 in our review.
A New Benchmark for Detective Gameplay
While detective fiction has long been popular in books and film, creating a truly engaging interactive mystery has been a historical challenge for video games. Titles like Her Story, Return Of The Obra Dinn, and Case Of The Golden Idol have paved the way, proving that games can demand genuine sleuthing from players. The Séance Of Blake Manor stands proudly alongside these greats, offering a "full fat" detective experience where the game will not solve the mystery for you.
Set in 1897, you assume the role of private investigator Declan Ward, hired by an anonymous client to probe the disappearance of a woman named Evelyn Deane at the now-hotel Blake Manor. The investigation is on a tight clock: a séance is scheduled in two days, an event that threatens to unleash literal hell. This clever time pressure forces players to think strategically about every action.
Mechanics, Mystery, and Irish Myth
The core gameplay is a satisfying mix of careful observation, environmental exploration, and logical deduction. Much like Sherlock Holmes, Ward must scrutinise the manor's many suspicious guests and staff, uncovering hidden clues and deciphering secret codes. Every meaningful action consumes in-game time, from picking a lock to eavesdropping on a conversation. This system is brilliantly integrated with the characters' daily schedules, allowing you to plan your movements to be in the right place at the right time.
While the detective work is grounded in logic, the supernatural threat is deeply rooted in Irish mythology, a refreshing and integral use of the developer's heritage. The game's distinctive visual style, reminiscent of a more clinical Mike Mignola (creator of Hellboy), and its excellent voice acting elevate it far beyond its indie budget. The narrative also boasts surprising depth, weaving themes of colonialism and complex family histories into the fabric of its mystery.
Verdict and Final Score
Released on 27th October 2025 and priced at £16.75, The Séance Of Blake Manor is a triumph. It builds expertly on the foundations laid by other detective games to deliver an experience rich with intrigue, clever puzzles, and memorable characters. While its interface and wealth of information can be initially daunting, the payoff is immense.
Pros: An intriguing plot with well-developed characters, clever signposting that always provides leads, genuine thematic depth, and superb presentation.
Cons: A potentially overwhelming amount of information at the start, and minor dialogue inconsistencies on repeat playthroughs.
In short, this is not just a great detective game; it's a standout title that helps solidify the detective genre within gaming. It's a must-play for mystery fans and stands as one of the best games of the year.
