The Devastator of Drywall
My initial encounter with Puppet Combo’s body of work was through the original release of Power Drill Massacre back in… well, it feels like ages ago, but it was actually just in 2021. Time sure has lost its significance.
Regardless, even though the game was unfinished at the time, it made quite an impression. Originally launched in 2015, it played a significant role in establishing the lo-fi horror genre within the indie market. Perhaps it gradually emerged through the efforts of Puppet Combo and other developers. It’s hard to pinpoint exactly.
Now, here’s the exciting part – after all these years, Power Drill Massacre is finally getting the complete version it deserves. However, for now, we only have access to the demo, which was recently made available as part of Steam Next Fest. So, yes, we’re still eagerly awaiting the full release.
The Plaster Perforator
If you played the original build of Power Drill Massacre, the demo will feel familiar. It starts with a mysterious car crash, and you find yourself in the shoes of an unfortunate woman. Instead of retracing her steps to the accident site, she embarks on a journey up a mountainside towards an abandoned mill.
But wait! She’s locked in! Oh no! There’s someone lurking who emits eerie pig-like squeals and has an appetite for skull aeration!
That’s pretty much the setup. The old mill is a terrifying labyrinth of concrete corridors, and your primary goal is simple – avoid the Driller Killer at all costs and find a way to escape. Easier said than done.
The Hole Horror
The demo offers two possible endings, just like the original Power Drill Massacre build. However, I wasn’t aware of this initially. I had stumbled upon what I thought was the “good” ending, oblivious to the alternate path I could have taken to complete the gameplay segment.
To achieve the good ending, you need to locate three scattered keys within the mill and unlock a door using them. That’s the crux of it. Along the way, you may come across newspaper articles that provide some context and backstory, but ultimately, it boils down to the simple desire of not wanting to be trapped with a serial killer.
Despite its simplicity, the game effectively creates tension. The narrow corridors are filled with intentionally misleading textures, even making experienced virtual explorers lose their way easily. The lurking Driller Killer could jump out at any moment, and it’s challenging to discern if you’re running towards a dead end. Power Drill Massacre doesn’t strive for realism; instead, it aims to keep you on edge and terrified.
The Timber Terminator
The content in the demo closely resembles the 2015 build. I reached out to Puppet Combo’s creator, Ben Cocuzza, to confirm this. He mentioned that while the content largely remains the same, “The Code has been completely rewritten.”
And that fact is apparent. Apart from the improved visuals (though still maintaining a lo-fi aesthetic), Cocuzza has implemented additional perspectives and control schemes. You can now choose between first-person, “orbital” third-person, or cinematic angles. Additionally, you have the option of analogue or classic horror “tank” controls. These differences significantly enhance the overall accessibility and comfort of the game.
Unfortunately, we’re still left in the dark regarding Megan’s fate. The demo provides a tantalizing glimpse of what’s to come in the final product, but for those familiar with Puppet Combo’s previous works, it’s not groundbreaking. However, it clearly showcases the growth and improvement in Cocuzza’s skill since the initial release. It will undoubtedly leave you craving more of Power Drill Massacre’s delectable violence.
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Basant Kasayap is an entertainment aficionado who delves into the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry. From Hollywood to Bollywood to regional cinema, she offers readers an insider’s perspective on the world of movies, music, and pop culture.
