Paper Ghost Stories: Third Eye Open Review – A Spooky Malaysian Tale

In the realm of gaming, Paper Ghost Stories: Third Eye Open for the PlayStation 5 beckons players with its enchanting art style reminiscent of Paper Mario infused with a Malaysian essence. Developed by Cellar Vault Games, this sequel to Paper Ghost Stories: 7PM delves into Malaysian and Chinese folklore, intertwining cultural myths with a narrative centered on the complexities of familial relationships.

The game unfolds the tale of Ting, a young girl navigating life in a Malaysian suburb during the mid-2000s. Ting’s encounter with Xiu, a ghost visible only to her, sets the stage for a journey through Ting’s coming-of-age experiences, including her ability to communicate with spirits. While the initial ghostly premise captivates, the narrative gradually shifts towards immersive world-building, incorporating Malaysian phrases and cultural elements to create an authentic setting that resonates with players.

Despite its intriguing premise, Third Eye Open falters in gameplay execution, oscillating between dialogue-heavy sequences and mundane activities like chores and mini-games, diluting the overall experience. The game’s 2.5D exploration segments, though visually appealing, often feel disconnected from the narrative, leading to pacing issues and a lack of cohesion between story progression and gameplay mechanics.

While the game’s atmospheric settings offer glimpses of suspense and mystery, the overall delivery falls short of creating a truly chilling experience. The gameplay mechanics, including stealth elements and puzzle-solving, add sporadic thrills but fail to sustain a consistent level of engagement throughout the narrative. Moreover, the camera angles at times hinder player visibility, detracting from the immersive quality of the gameplay.

Nevertheless, Third Eye Open shines in its dedication to showcasing Southeast Asian aesthetics, with intricate paper-crafted visuals and a melodious soundtrack reminiscent of Studio Ghibli films. The game’s thematic depth, exploring themes of familial struggles and personal growth, adds emotional depth to an otherwise lackluster gameplay experience.

In conclusion, Paper Ghost Stories: Third Eye Open offers a heartfelt homage to Malaysian culture and folklore, yet struggles to strike a balance between storytelling and gameplay mechanics. While it may appeal to players seeking a narrative-driven experience with cultural authenticity, its shortcomings in gameplay innovation and pacing may hinder its broader appeal.