Paper Ghost Stories: Third Eye Open by Chorus Worldwide Games is an atmospheric horror-adventure game that draws its inspiration from Malaysia and Chinese myths and folklore. This title continues the Paper Ghost Stories series, offering a unique blend of storytelling, improved hand-drawn visuals, and light puzzle-solving, all set within a haunting and immersive world.  

With its eerie narrative and distinct art style, Paper Ghost Stories: Third Eye Open promises a different kind of horror experience that focuses more on exploration that challenges your mind and morality through the rich characters and their stories.

Story-driven experience with a unique art style 

Paper Ghost Stories: Third Eye Open is relatively straightforward. Players will spend most of their time exploring environments, interacting with objects, and solving light puzzles to progress the story. The exploration is enhanced by Ting’s ability to see and interact with spirits, which adds a layer of supernatural intrigue to the game. Use the third eye to uncover hidden clues, navigate ghostly encounters, and resolve the various mysteries. 

The ambient sounds and eerie music perfectly complement the unsettling atmosphere, adding tension to every scene. The game uses silence effectively, creating moments of stillness that make the eventual appearance of spirits or supernatural events more impactful. The characters’ dialogue is presented through text boxes. The absence of full voice acting allows the game to maintain its storybook-like presentation, and it works well within the context of the game. 

Given its heavy focus on narrative, it’s not the type of game that players will likely revisit frequently. However, there are some choices and branching paths within the story that encourage players to replay certain sections to see different outcomes. Additionally, the game’s relatively short length of roughly four to six hours makes it accessible for multiple playthroughs, especially for those interested in fully uncovering its mysteries.

A beautifully crafted, atmospheric horror tale  

Paper Ghost Stories: Third Eye Open is a refreshing addition to the horror genre, with a unique blend of folklore, emotional storytelling, and distinct art style. Its paper-cut aesthetic and focus on myths set it apart from more traditional horror games, while its narrative draws players into a world that is as beautiful as it is haunting. While the game is short, it's still a must-try for its unique presentation.