In the vast landscape of horror video games, a title occasionally emerges that manages to surprise with an original formula. Order 13, developed by Cybernetic Walrus and published by Oro Interactive and Drillhounds, is one such game. Released on March 10, 2025, for PC via Steam.
Order 13 mixes the monotony of a repetitive job with an oppressive atmosphere and growing psychological terror. The player takes on the role of a solitary worker inside a mysterious distribution center, with the only company being their loyal cat. The task is simple: retrieve and ship packages. But as the shift progresses, it becomes increasingly clear that something dark lurks among the shelves.
An Atmosphere of Growing Tension
One of the most successful aspects of Order 13 is its ability to build tension through seemingly harmless gameplay. The player begins the shift by examining orders and venturing into the warehouse to retrieve the requested packages. At first, the task seems simple and repetitive, but over time, the sense of discomfort grows. The flashlight becomes the only tool to dispel the shadows, which seem to move in an unsettling manner. Distant sounds, barely perceptible whispers, and a meticulously crafted sound design contribute to the growing sense of anxiety.
The game’s mechanics keep the player constantly on edge: staying too long in one area may attract unwanted attention, while moving too quickly could cause important details to be missed. This dynamic makes each shift an increasingly tense experience, turning the seemingly mundane task of preparing packages into a nightmare.
The Discovery of the Warehouse’s Secrets
As the game progresses, Order 13 reveals its darker side. New sections of the warehouse unlock, leading the player to explore increasingly oppressive and dangerous environments. The objects found along the way reveal fragments of a disturbing story, suggesting that the warehouse may not just be a place of work, but the setting for sinister events. Forgotten documents, unsettling recordings, and shadows that seem to follow the protagonist make it clear that there is much more behind this simple work routine.
One of the most appreciated elements by players is the freedom of exploration. Although the game follows a linear structure, players have the opportunity to investigate hidden corners of the warehouse and uncover clues about its disturbing nature. This system encourages replayability, prompting players to search for all the details of the story to fully understand what is happening.
A Success Among Horror Enthusiasts
Despite its unusual concept, Order 13 quickly captured the attention of the horror community on Steam. With an overall “Very Positive” rating based on hundreds of reviews, the game has been praised for its atmosphere, level design, and the way it transforms a mundane task into a terrifying experience.
Some players have compared the atmosphere to titles like Five Nights at Freddy’s or Iron Lung, where the horror stems more from anticipation and tension rather than sudden scares. However, some reviews have pointed out minor flaws, such as the relatively short duration of the experience and the repetitiveness of certain mechanics.
Conclusion
Order 13 stands out in the horror genre thanks to a simple yet incredibly effective concept. The combination of a monotonous task and steadily increasing tension makes it a perfect title for fans of psychological horror. While its duration may be short, the intensity of the experience and the depth of its narrative make it a must-play for those seeking a different kind of thrill. If you enjoy immersive horror experiences filled with tension, Order 13 is a title you should add to your library.
Available now on Steam: Order 13 on Steam
Order 13
PRO
- Unsettling and immersive atmosphere – The sound design and dynamic lighting create a constant sense of tension.
- Simple yet effective gameplay – The work routine gradually transforms into an engaging psychological nightmare.
- Mysterious and captivating narrative – The scattered clues in the warehouse add depth to the story and encourage exploration.
CON
- Relatively short duration – The gameplay experience may feel too quick for some players.
- Repetitiveness of mechanics – Some gameplay phases may feel monotonous after several sessions.
- Lack of variety in enemies or threats – The horror is more based on tension than actual dangers, which may not appeal to everyone.
6.5/10
