Identity V is a free-to-play adventure game that drops you into a distinct, doll-like world filled with dark mysteries. You play the role of a detective arriving at a derelict estate to search for a missing girl, only to find diaries that reveal a series of deadly games. 

In Identity V, the focus remains on a tense atmosphere and a deeply stylized aesthetic reminiscent of a dark fairy tale. Sharing a very similar spirit with the gameplay found in Dead by Daylight, this game offers a competitive experience where survival relies on your ability to outsmart a relentless pursuer.

Survive or hunt

Identity V begins with you exploring the manor as Orpheus, using his investigative skills to find clues about past events. By reading old diaries, you enter “memory matches,” where you step into the roles of the survivors he is studying, like the Doctor or the Gardener.  Your objective in these memories is to decode five machines and escape the gate while uncovering their grim fates.

Once you are inside these memories, the gameplay shifts into a four-versus-one setup where you must either cooperate with others to escape or play the Hunter to stop them. You earn points to unlock new outfits and characters through the logic path progression system, which acts as a steady reward board. Success depends on mastering character-specific abilities and using the environment to your advantage during a chase.

A crucial technical feature to understand is the matchmaking system, which acts as a bridge to this multiplayer world. For new players or those on losing streaks, the game frequently utilizes AI bots to help them learn the ropes. This entire experience is wrapped in a striking gothic art style, where characters are rendered with button eyes and stitched seams to enhance the eerie, doll-like atmosphere.

A haunting blend of deduction and survival

Ultimately, Identity V offers a polished blend of strategy and atmosphere that is best suited for players who enjoy competitive team play with a dark, artistic flair. While the early-game reliance on AI can feel a bit hollow, the experience becomes much more rewarding once you face real human opponents. It is a solid pick if you want a skill-based adventure that features a deep roster of characters.