Stockholm Slaughter: A Deliciously Disturbing Cannibal Dungeon Crawler

The Unique Aesthetic of Medium Rare: A Dive into the World of Stock Photo Game Design

In the realm of indie gaming, a distinct and captivating visual style can often be the key to grabbing a player’s attention. Medium Rare, a Resident Evil-inspired dungeon crawler RPG, has managed to achieve just that with its gritty and unsettling vibe. The game’s premise revolves around the player’s mission to rescue their spouse from a grim human meat factory in a world where cannibalism has become industrialized due to dwindling global resources. The gameplay features classic grid-based exploration mechanics with a twist in combat strategy, where enemy placement on a three by three grid directly impacts the damage dealt. Combat outcomes are determined by dice rolls, adding an element of unpredictability, while weapon choice plays a crucial role in survival. The influences of Resident Evil are evident in the tile-based inventory management, the pursuit of infected adversaries, and the scarcity of safe havens for resting.

While the gameplay mechanics promise a satisfying experience, it is the game’s visual presentation that truly sets it apart. Medium Rare’s unique aesthetic is achieved through the creative use of real photographs manipulated in Photoshop to create textured, pixelated assets that exude a sense of unease. In a behind-the-scenes dev vlog, the developer reveals that all visuals are crafted from stock photos, highlighting a process known as photobashing. This technique, though often overlooked in the gaming industry, adds a layer of authenticity and grittiness to the game’s visuals, challenging the norms of traditional pixel art. The developer’s dedication to experimentation and innovation is evident as they strive to break away from cliches and offer players a visual experience unlike any other.

Artist Giovanni Fim’s insights shared in the dev vlog shed light on the importance of pushing boundaries and embracing uniqueness in game design. By daring to explore unconventional visual styles, developers can carve out a niche for themselves in a crowded market. Medium Rare’s distinctive look serves as a prime example of how thinking outside the box can lead to recognition and acclaim in the indie gaming scene. For aspiring developers, Fim’s advice serves as a valuable lesson in staying true to one’s creative vision and standing out amidst the competition.

Those intrigued by the world of Medium Rare can delve into the game’s demo on Steam or add it to their wishlist ahead of its anticipated release in 2027. With its blend of innovative visuals and engaging gameplay mechanics, Medium Rare is poised to make a mark in the indie gaming landscape, offering players a unique and memorable experience unlike any other.