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Detention

PC (Microsoft Windows) • 2017

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Quick resume

Detention is an atmospheric horror game set in 1960s Taiwan under martial law. Incorporated religious elements based in Taiwanese/Chinese culture and mythology, the game provided players with unique graphics and gaming experience.

Global score

96/100

Genres

Adventure, Indie, Point-and-click

Pros

  • Deep and meaningful story
  • Unique art style and atmosphere
  • Engaging puzzles
  • Historical and cultural education
  • Strong emotional impact

Cons

  • Short gameplay length
  • Limited replay value
  • Some puzzles can be obtuse
  • Lack of multiplayer or social features
  • Minimal character customization

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    3

    "Players navigate the story-driven point-and-click gameplay with freedom to explore and solve puzzles, reflecting personal agency within the narrative."

  • Competence
    2

    "Puzzles provide moderate challenge requiring problem-solving skills, but gameplay is generally straightforward and accessible."

  • Competition
    -5

    "No competitive elements; focus is on personal narrative experience without comparison to others."

  • Continuation
    1

    "Players engage deeply to finish the story, but limited replay value beyond alternate endings suggests moderate habitual play."

  • Cooperation
    -5

    "Single-player experience focused on individual exploration and story progression without multiplayer or cooperative features."

  • Creativity
    2

    "Players creatively solve puzzles and interpret story symbolism, though within a fixed narrative and environment."

  • Domination
    -5

    "No elements of exerting control or superiority over others; interactions are solitary and narrative-driven."

  • Escapism
    4

    "Strong immersion in a fictionalized historical and psychological horror setting provides escape from real life."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily driven by interest in story, atmosphere, and cultural themes rather than obligation."

  • Experimenting
    1

    "Some exploration and puzzle experimentation occur, but mostly within established game mechanics and story progression."

  • Exploration
    3

    "Players explore new environments and uncover story elements and secrets in a narrative-driven setting."

  • Expression
    -4

    "Limited customization or self-expression; players experience a fixed protagonist and environment."

  • Fantasy
    3

    "Game blends Taiwanese mythology and supernatural elements with historical fiction, creating an imaginative experience."

  • Fellowship
    -5

    "Solo play with minimal social interaction or community involvement."

  • Growth
    2

    "Players develop problem-solving skills and gain understanding of historical and cultural context through gameplay."

  • Health
    -5

    "Sedentary gameplay with no physical activity or health-related mechanics."

  • Idle
    -3

    "Requires focused attention to solve puzzles and follow story; not designed for casual or background play."

  • Intimacy
    -4

    "Emotional engagement with story and characters but limited social or relational interaction."

  • Leadership
    -5

    "No leadership or group management elements; entirely single-player narrative."

  • Progression
    2

    "Players progress through story and unlock alternate endings; some item collection and puzzle completion."

  • Relaxation
    1

    "Atmosphere is tense and eerie but gameplay pacing allows moments of calm and reflection."

  • Sensation
    3

    "Strong sensory engagement through unique art style, sound design, and atmospheric music."

  • Status
    -5

    "No social status or recognition systems; focus is on personal experience."

  • Story
    5

    "Narrative immersion is central, with a deep, meaningful story exploring historical and psychological themes."

  • Strategy
    1

    "Some puzzle-solving requires logical thinking, but overall gameplay is straightforward."

  • Thrill
    2

    "Psychological horror and suspense create tension and unease rather than frequent jump scares."

  • Value
    4

    "Highly praised for storytelling and atmosphere, offering strong perceived value especially at discounted price."

  • Violence
    1

    "Contains themes of death and oppression but gameplay focuses on avoidance and puzzle-solving rather than combat."

  • Survival
    2

    "Players must avoid supernatural threats by stealth and timing, adding survival tension to gameplay."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026