Heartworm

“Heartworm is a very self-aware, intelligent take on classic survival horror franchises, that utilises some really clever ideas and will find ways to connect with the player through its themes, setting and mechanics. It’s rough around the edges at times and it’s style won’t be for everyone with the way you get around, the look and even the gameplay feel, but for those who grew up on the origins of the genre or those who look at it fondly and with respect, Heartworm is as good of a modern interpretation of it as has ever been made.”

“Heartworm is a love letter to survival horrors of the 90’s, with a great look and feel that apes those older games brilliantly. Boring boss fights, an uninspiring tale, and some user interface niggles stop this being a full-hearted recommendation, but if you’re in the market for old school Resident Evil-like gaming, then this should fit the bill nicely.”

“Given the small team behind this project, there’s a clear enthusiasm and love for survival horror that shines through in blood-soaked glory. While it is a bit rough around the edges, and is certainly not without its issues – difficulty and level balancing notwithstanding – Heartworm is a decent ride while it lasts”

“Heartworm is an imperfect but emotionally powerful experience. It doesn't revolutionize survival horror, but it demonstrates a deep understanding of what made the classics special. Its greatest success lies in using nostalgia as a vehicle to explore universal themes of loss and grief.”

“Heartworm is a game with a clear vision and strong aesthetic—its atmosphere, puzzles, and audio stand out and will appeal to fans of classic survival horror—but its ambition falls short due to unpolished mechanics, shallow storytelling, and lacking gameplay precision, making it more of a brief, atmospheric experience than a fully convincing modern classic.”

“Heartworm seems to be a sincere homage to the heyday of survival horror. It has a remarkable level of accuracy in capturing the style, sound, and cadence of its inspirations.”

“Heartworm is not just a love letter to classic horror games, but an odyssey through loss and the emotional toll of grief. On the surface, it has all the hallmarks of a classic PlayStation horror game, yet it also incorporates lessons learned from 30 years of game development. Beneath the surface, it explores overcoming the pain that comes with loss and how our memories of the past can differ from reality.”

“Heartworm works best in its subtlest areas, leaving players to experience the tension of its beautifully creepy environments and its subtle, anxiety-inducing score and story. While some of the moments intended to put you on edge don’t work as well, the game overall is still a great piece of nostalgia and an experience worth having on your own.”

“I'm a veteran of the survival horror genre but I never truly felt comfortable with any of the control options it offers and its narrative never felt satisfying. But for every flaw it has, there's one thing it truly excels at: the setting is exquisite, it perfectly handles the retro visual style, and it has excellent puzzles and great level design. Definitely worth a try for genre fans who are always looking for more classic-flavored experiences.”

“All in all, Heartworm is a lovely journey into classic survival horror fun. Just be prepared for your heart to ache as well as freeze in fear.”

“While Heartworm isn't very challenging in its survival horror, its creative and well-designed puzzle elements still present a fun gameplay experience. It wears its inspiration of 1990s survival horror classics on its sleeve, while also making its own footprint in gorgeous, colourful visuals and lonely atmosphere.”

“Heartworm is both a heartfelt and horrifying survival horror throwback, which those looking for PS1 nostalgia will love. It also does a great job of catering for old school fans and a modern audience, with settings to include anyone looking for a spooky experience.”

“Heartworm is more than just a tribute—it’s an evolution. Equal parts chilling and contemplative, it knows when to whisper and when to scream. From the stunning environments to the rich audio and the elegant blending of old and new mechanics, every piece feels hand-placed with purpose. Vincent Adinolfi and the small team behind Heartworm have crafted something special—a horror experience with soul. It’s one of 2025’s finest indie titles and a must-play for anyone who ever felt their skin crawl in a PS1 hallway.”