Lorelei and the Laser Eyes: A Surreal Puzzle Adventure
On May 15, 2024, Simogo released "Lorelei and the Laser Eyes," a puzzle game that blends elements from horror games, postmodern novels, and French New Wave cinema. The game begins with a well-dressed female protagonist exploring a secluded hotel filled with art exhibits, mathematical puzzles, and a Labrador.
The game's setting, inspired by "Resident Evil," is a combination of architectural intrigue and psychological surrealism. According to Simon Flesser, one of Simogo's founders, the game is "like wandering in memories and dreams." Inspirations for the game include "The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari," "Twin Peaks: The Return," "The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening," and John Fowles’s 1965 novel, "The Magus."
The hotel, named Letztes Jahr (German for "Last Year"), references Alain Resnais's film "Last Year at Marienbad." The game contains metatextual elements, featuring retro computer game vignettes and documents about a piece of software called "Lorelei and the Laser Eyes."
Lorelei's narrative revolves around a fateful collaboration with a filmmaker and a subterranean supercomputer. Puzzles within the game include using movie cameras to uncover patterns in art installations, created by an in-game artist named Lorelei Weiss.
The fixed camera positions, reminiscent of early "Resident Evil" games, contribute to the game's cinematic feel. The player's exploration through the protagonist’s eyes is designed to evoke a sense of nostalgia and discovery.
Sam Barlow, known for his game "Immortality," praised Lorelei for its unique blend of interactivity, literature, and cinema. He highlights the game’s ritualistic use of motifs and its connection between different forms of art and storytelling.
Overall, "Lorelei and the Laser Eyes" provides a labyrinthine experience shaped by various artistic influences, offering players an intricate journey through memories and dreams.