Hollow Lantern

Hollow Lantern is slow in the best way. You wander a flooded ruin with a single lantern, and most of the game is about noticing things: a carving that hints at a passage, a reflection that isn't quite right. There's no combat, no timer, just you and the dark.

Movement is a simple drag to walk and tap to interact, and it never gets in the way. The lantern light is the real mechanic, revealing details and casting shadows that sometimes point you where to go. We played most of it with headphones on and the soundscape does a lot of heavy lifting.

It's short, maybe four hours, and that feels right. The settings include a brightness boost for the darker rooms and a comfort toggle that reduces the camera sway. A lovely thing to play in one or two sittings before bed.

What we liked

• Calm, no-combat exploration
• Lantern light drives puzzles and mood
• Comfortable length with a satisfying end