BrokenLore: UNFOLLOW is a first-person psychological horror game developed by Serafini Productions and published by Shochiku Games. Released on January 16, 2026 for PC (Steam and Epic Games Store), PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. It is part of the BrokenLore narrative universe, a series of standalone horror experiences that share a symbolic and strongly introspective approach.
This is not a classic survival horror built around weapons, ammunition, and enemies to defeat. UNFOLLOW takes a subtler and more uncomfortable approach, using horror to explore identity, social judgment, digital pressure, and loneliness. It directly addresses a highly topical issue: the impact of social media on mental health.
A Nightmare Built on Anxiety, Judgment, and Isolation
The story revolves around Anne, a young woman trapped in a distorted reality that mirrors her mental state. The game environment is not just a space to navigate, but a representation of her fears, traumas, and others’ judgment. Deformed creatures, oppressive spaces, and recurring symbols create imagery that conveys unease rather than immediate fear.
The real strength of BrokenLore: UNFOLLOW lies precisely here: it does not aim to scare the player through constant jump scares, but instead builds a persistent sense of unease. The horror is more psychological than visual, often emerging from what the game suggests rather than what it openly shows. It is an experience that requires attention and a willingness to become involved, but it rewards the player with a coherent and carefully crafted atmosphere.
Narrative Gameplay and Meaningful Choices
From a gameplay perspective, UNFOLLOW offers an essential yet effective experience. Exploration sits at the core of the game, supported by light puzzles and moments of narrative interaction. Player choices influence the development of the story and lead to different endings, encouraging replayability and a deeper interpretation of the events.
One particularly interesting element is the use of the in-game smartphone, which becomes a narrative tool as much as a gameplay one. Through notifications, messages, and symbols tied to the digital world, the game highlights the relationship between personal identity and online perception. It does so without feeling overly didactic or heavy-handed. It is a simple idea, but one that is well integrated into the narrative context.
In this regard, it is impossible not to mention Serafini Productions and Shochiku Games. The balance between creative vision and publishing support is clearly evident. The development studio pursues a precise and recognizable artistic direction. The publisher backs a project that does not aim for the mass market. Instead, it targets an audience interested in more intimate and reflective experiences.
Atmosphere and Art Direction at the Core of the Experience
From a technical standpoint, BrokenLore: UNFOLLOW does not aim for photorealism, and it does not need to. The art direction prioritizes lighting, color, and scene composition to evoke unease and emotional tension. Some environments stand out for their symbolic weight rather than their graphical complexity.
The pacing is deliberately slow and contemplative, a choice that may not appeal to everyone but remains consistent with the type of experience being offered. There is no running, no shooting, no “winning” in the traditional sense. Instead, you move through a story, observe it, and interpret it.
Conclusion: A Horror Experience Worth Living
BrokenLore: UNFOLLOW is a psychological horror game that does not try to please everyone, and that may be its greatest strength. It is a title focused on atmosphere, meaning, and reflection rather than action or immediate impact. Despite structural limitations and a pacing that demands patience, it stands out thanks to a clear creative vision and sensitive themes.
If you appreciate narrative-driven experiences, psychological horror, and games that attempt to say something beyond simple scares, BrokenLore: UNFOLLOW is worth your attention. You can purchase it directly on Steam.
BrokenLore: UNFOLLOW
PRO
- Intense and coherent psychological atmosphere
- Current themes handled with sensitivity
- Evocative art direction
CON
- Slow pacing not suitable for everyone
- Essential and limited gameplay variety
- Low replay value for those not interested in alternative endings
8/10
