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Sanitarium

iOS, Android, PC (Microsoft Windows) • 2014

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Quick resume

Originally released in 1998 on PC, and awarded as the Adventure Game of the Year, The timeless horror point-and-click, Sanitarium, is returning to frighten the bravest adventure game fans.

Global score

93/100

Genres

Adventure, Point-and-click, Puzzle

Pros

  • Immersive and compelling story
  • Unique surreal and psychological horror atmosphere
  • Challenging and well-designed puzzles
  • Excellent voice acting and soundtrack
  • Nostalgic classic point-and-click gameplay

Cons

  • Dated graphics and controls
  • Slow character movement
  • Some frustrating pixel hunting
  • Lack of modern gameplay conveniences
  • Some chapters less engaging or tedious

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players explore various surreal environments and solve puzzles with freedom to investigate and interact, reflecting high personal control and decision-making."

  • Competence
    3

    "The game offers challenging puzzles that require logical thinking and attention, providing a sense of skill and accomplishment."

  • Competition
    -5

    "Single-player experience focused on personal story progression without any competitive elements."

  • Continuation
    3

    "Players report long play sessions and strong attachment to the story and atmosphere, encouraging habitual engagement."

  • Cooperation
    -5

    "Entirely single-player with no multiplayer or cooperative gameplay."

  • Creativity
    5

    "Highly creative surreal and psychological horror settings, unique characters, and imaginative storylines."

  • Domination
    -5

    "No elements of exerting control or superiority over others; cooperative and equal interactions are absent."

  • Escapism
    5

    "Strong psychological horror and surreal narrative provide deep escape from reality and immersion in a disturbing fictional world."

  • Expectation
    -5

    "Players engage voluntarily out of interest and nostalgia, with no obligation or external pressure."

  • Experimenting
    3

    "Exploration of multiple bizarre worlds and puzzles encourages trying new approaches and discovery."

  • Exploration
    5

    "Game features diverse, surreal environments and encourages curiosity-driven discovery."

  • Expression
    -5

    "Limited customization; players use predefined characters and environments without personalization."

  • Fantasy
    5

    "Strong elements of surrealism, psychological horror, and imaginative fiction dominate the experience."

  • Fellowship
    -5

    "Single-player experience with minimal social interaction or community involvement."

  • Growth
    3

    "Players develop problem-solving skills through puzzles and gradually understand the complex story."

  • Health
    -5

    "Sedentary gameplay typical of point-and-click adventures with no physical activity."

  • Idle
    -3

    "Requires focused attention and active puzzle solving rather than passive or background play."

  • Intimacy
    -5

    "Minimal social or emotional connections beyond the single-player narrative."

  • Leadership
    -5

    "No leadership or group management elements present."

  • Progression
    3

    "Progression through story chapters and puzzle completion provides a sense of advancement."

  • Relaxation
    2

    "Atmosphere is tense and eerie but balanced with engaging puzzles, allowing moments of flow."

  • Sensation
    3

    "Creepy music and unsettling visuals provide emotional stimulation and atmospheric immersion."

  • Status
    -5

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

  • Story
    5

    "Highly praised narrative immersion with complex plot, character development, and psychological themes."

  • Strategy
    2

    "Puzzles require logical thinking and problem solving but do not involve complex strategic planning."

  • Thrill
    3

    "Psychological horror and suspense create tension and emotional thrills."

  • Value
    4

    "Players find the game worth its price due to story, atmosphere, and nostalgic value."

  • Violence
    1

    "Contains some violent and disturbing imagery but gameplay focuses on puzzle solving rather than combat."

  • Survival
    -3

    "No survival mechanics; game operates in stable conditions without threat of failure or death."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026