Detention: A Haunting Journey Through Taiwanese Historical Trauma!

“Detention,” developed by the Taiwanese studio Red Candle Games, isn’t your typical jump-scare fest. This atmospheric horror adventure game plunges you into a chilling narrative steeped in Taiwanese history and folklore, exploring themes of political oppression, guilt, and the enduring power of memory. Set against the backdrop of 1960s Taiwan during the White Terror era, a period marked by martial law and widespread persecution, “Detention” weaves a haunting tale that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

The game follows the intertwined stories of Ray and Sue, two high school students trapped within their school after a torrential typhoon strikes. As they navigate the darkened corridors and abandoned classrooms, they encounter unsettling phenomena – whispers in the wind, spectral figures lurking in the shadows, and cryptic messages scrawled on classroom walls. It quickly becomes apparent that something sinister lurks beneath the surface of this seemingly ordinary institution.

“Detention” masterfully blends traditional horror elements with Taiwanese mythology and folklore. Players will encounter vengeful spirits known as “Hungry Ghosts,” tormented souls seeking retribution for past wrongs. These entities, often depicted as pale figures with long flowing hair and hollow eyes, serve as a constant reminder of the cycle of violence and suffering that has plagued Taiwan’s history.

The game’s narrative is presented through a combination of environmental storytelling, dialogue sequences, and cutscenes rendered in a distinctive 2D side-scrolling art style reminiscent of classic point-and-click adventure games. This unique visual approach effectively evokes a sense of dread and unease, drawing players into the unsettling atmosphere of the game world.

Gameplay Mechanics:

• Puzzle Solving: “Detention” features a variety of environmental puzzles that require players to carefully observe their surroundings and interact with objects in the environment.

• Dialogue Choices: Throughout the game, players will encounter NPCs who offer insights into the story and the school’s history. The choices you make during these conversations can subtly influence the course of events.

• Inventory Management: Players must manage a limited inventory of items, which can be used to solve puzzles or interact with the environment.

Themes and Symbolism:

“Detention” explores complex themes of guilt, oppression, and the enduring power of memory. The game draws heavily on Taiwanese history, particularly the White Terror period, when political dissidents were silenced through imprisonment, torture, and extrajudicial killings. This dark chapter in Taiwan’s past serves as a haunting backdrop for the game’s narrative, reflecting the lasting scars of trauma and injustice.

The game also delves into themes of personal responsibility and the consequences of our actions. Ray and Sue must confront their own demons and grapple with the choices they have made, both individually and collectively.

Sound Design and Atmosphere:

One of “Detention’s” greatest strengths lies in its immersive sound design. The haunting soundtrack, composed by Shih-Wei Wu, blends traditional Taiwanese instruments with chilling electronic soundscapes, creating a truly unforgettable auditory experience.

The game effectively utilizes ambient noise and sound effects to enhance the sense of dread and suspense. The rustling of leaves, the dripping of water, and the distant cries of tortured souls all contribute to the unsettling atmosphere.

Critical Reception and Legacy: “Detention” received widespread critical acclaim upon its release in 2017. Critics praised the game’s unique blend of horror, historical fiction, and Taiwanese mythology, as well as its haunting atmosphere, compelling narrative, and thought-provoking themes. The game has been recognized for its contribution to the indie gaming scene, demonstrating the power of storytelling and cultural exploration within the horror genre.

Beyond critical acclaim, “Detention” has had a lasting impact on gamers and developers alike. Its success paved the way for other Taiwanese-developed games to gain international recognition, showcasing the vibrant and creative talent within the country’s gaming industry.

Final Thoughts: “Detention” is more than just a horror game; it is an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve finished playing. Its haunting narrative, evocative sound design, and exploration of complex themes make it a truly unforgettable journey into the depths of Taiwanese history and human psychology.

Whether you are a seasoned horror aficionado or simply looking for a game that will challenge and provoke you, “Detention” is an essential experience that should not be missed.