Last Labyrinth has been updated to support the PSVR 2, but regrettably, just as with its original release, it remains a rather dull game that tests our patience. The only truly impressive aspect of Last Labyrinth is its unique VR perspective, where players use their heads to point in the direction or choose the action to perform. However, the slow-paced gameplay can quickly become tiresome, not to mention the trap-ridden levels that present danger at every turn.
The game is shrouded in an aura of mystery, which serves as its most appealing quality. Unfortunately, the story is hidden behind so much ambiguity that it’s difficult to comprehend. Last Labyrinth offers multiple endings and is designed as an escape room simulator. Players assume the role of a paralegal who is assisted by a mysterious girl named Katia (a detail I had to research). The game unfolds like a time loop, with each step revealing something from the past.
The game begins in a dark room, illuminated only by a dimming light from a lamp that Katia activates once the player points toward it. Last Labyrinth neglects to explain its gameplay or narrative, leaving players to learn everything through trial and error. This is where the VR focus comes in, as the game leverages the PSVR 2 hardware’s various tracking features to guide players toward their goals. However, the experience is less enjoyable than it may seem, largely due to Katia’s painfully slow movements. She also requires confirmation before performing tasks, necessitating players to shake and nod the PSVR 2 headset as if saying yes to her. This extra step further exacerbates an already cumbersome and slow gameplay mechanic.
To the game’s credit, its enveloping sense of mystery can be intriguing and stimulates the imagination. However, this allure fades as players delve deeper into the gameplay. While the developers promise hours of content, much of it is buried behind the repetitive-level design and a frustratingly slow pace. The puzzles vary in quality; some are clever and immensely rewarding, while others are either unfairly difficult or simply not engaging. This inconsistent balance poses a significant obstacle, even for those who manage to enjoy the game.
Although my overall impression may seem grim, I did appreciate the game’s multiple endings and the way Katia meets her demise if players fail the puzzles. Admittedly, some of these endings are quite brutal, but they provide a measure of entertainment in an otherwise lackluster VR game.
I haven’t played many escape room simulators, and while that doesn’t make me an expert in the genre, I believe Last Labyrinth simply isn’t as enjoyable as it could be. I’ve already discussed the reasons for the game’s shortcomings: despite its mysterious premise and anime character, the gameplay mechanics are underwhelming and the VR novelty wears off quickly. If you have the patience to endure repetitive motions to instruct Katia and solve puzzles, this game might be for you. However, it wasn’t for me, so I would recommend avoiding it for now.
Priced at $29.99, Last Labyrinth seems more expensive than it should be, but this assessment is subjective. You might derive more enjoyment from the game than I did. As for replay value, I find it limited unless you enjoy watching the same animations and cutscenes countless times.
Last Labyrinth Game Information
- Price: $29.99
- Publisher: Amata K. K.
- Developer: Amata K. K.
- Platform: PS5 (Reviewed)
- Disclaimer: A review code was given by the publisher
