Developer Frogwares has steered its latest Lovecraftian title away from investigative roots, delivering a linear survival horror experience in The Sinking City 2 on PlayStation 5. In a published review for Push Square, critic Push Square evaluated how the studio behind the Sherlock Holmes series traded its signature Mind Palace mechanic for classic genre tropes reminiscent of Resident Evil and Silent Hill.
Quick Facts
- Platform: PlayStation 5 (tested on PS5 Pro in Performance Mode)
- Developer: Frogwares
- Setting: 1920s Arkham, following protagonist Calvin Raffery
- Playtime: Approximately 12 hours
Review Findings: What Changed in the Sequel
While the original game leaned heavily into clues, player-driven conclusions, and boat exploration, Push Square notes that the standalone sequel goes in the opposite direction. Actions no longer impact the story, boat travel is strictly functional for getting from place to place, and the campaign is significantly more linear.
In place of investigation mechanics, the 12-hour playthrough focuses on foot-based survival horror hallmarks. Puzzles stand out as a major highlight, requiring environmental observation, code-breaking, and close reading of files. Meanwhile, combat against Cthulhu monsters and human enemies controlled by the Slither relies on a limited arsenal, inventory management, scarce resources, and sparsely placed save rooms.
Performance and Player-Fit Caveats
Push Square reports that technical performance on the PS5 is solid. Running in Performance Mode on a PS5 Pro targeting 60 frames-per-second yielded no noticeable frame rate drops or technical hiccups, with expected similar results on the base PS5 console alongside minor adaptive trigger resistance for weapons.
However, the review points out several budget-related limitations. Enemy variety remains low, cutscenes suffer from stiff facial models, and lead voice performances struggle to elevate the narrative. Ultimately, Push Square describes the title as an admirable, smaller-scale effort that will satisfy players looking for tense resource management and clever puzzle design, even if it does not reach the production standards of genre heavyweights.