Epic Games’ next freebie is a hidden gem from 2016 rated “very positive” on Steam

The next free title on Epic Games Store may not be a big AAA blockbuster, but his silent subterfuge and tense decisions should entertain most players. Epic Games’ attempt to establish its digital storefront to compete with the powerhouse that is Steam has leveraged free games, as the company offers a freebie or two every week. The quality of these titles varies, and while it’s unknown whether it was successful as an expansion tool, it gave many users an excuse to pop into the store at least once a week.

There in Epic Games Store, the free game for the week of November 21st to 28th is confirmed to be Viewera stylish management game that requires players to spy on their neighbors for a dystopian government. The game has gained a cult following for its interesting choices and immersive setting that tasks players with surviving in a totalitarian state by any means necessary. On Steam, Viewer has accumulated over 19,000 reviews and has an average rating of “Very Positive,” which is impressive for a smaller indie game.

What is the observer?

A different kind of survival

In essence, Viewer is a game about choices, as players are given the role of a state-installed apartment building manager which must ensure that tenants are satisfied with the facilities. Doing so requires repairing any damage, cleaning, and providing decent accommodation for any renters moving out. Of course, this is more of a cover for the protagonist’s real job: spying on the people who live in the building and sharing information about potential traitors with the authorities.

This is done by spying through keyholes, eavesdropping on conversations, and even searching tenants’ belongings to find evidence that they oppose the state. Reporting these “criminals” always has consequences: Having a parent in prison looks great on someone’s performance record, but it also leaves a child orphaned and needs a new caregiver. Viewer asks players how far they will go to make a living in a world where everyone is paranoid, suspicious and looking out for themselves.

Beholder is dark but excellent

A fantastic game that may be too heavy for some

I’m a big fan of Viewer series: I played all three at least once and enjoyed my time with each of them. It can be a difficult game for players who don’t want to ask moral questions of themselves and others; It can be exhausting to constantly feel like a villain. Happily, Epic Games‘Current freebies include the retro fun of Castlevania Anniversary Collection and Complete Snakebirdwhich should help lighten the mood after a tense game of Viewer.

Source: Epic Games Store