Sorry We’re Closed Review — Neon Demons

Sorry We’re Closed is a decidedly unapologetic, stylized survival horror game that has instantly become one of my favorites. Oozing style and flavor, with interesting, character-driven writing packed with complex and intriguing themes and presented in a world of demonology, street crime, and unapologetic LGBTQ+ representation, Sorry We’re Closed is, if nothing else, unforgettable.

The game begins with a diabolical dream incursion, courtesy of an unmistakably disturbing, yet weirdly sexy, demon who offers you an easily declined chance at love. After a close encounter with a large, freaky egg-baby thing and discovering that some acquaintances are actually rocking forked tails, you enter a story of demon invasion, cross-dimensional puzzle solving, and general punky badassery as you fight to undo your curse.

“Disturbing, yet weirdly sexy” is a fantastic way to describe Sorry We’re Closed, which may be one of the most befitting games of the punk genre label I’ve ever played. While undeniably its own, the game’s style has elements reminiscent of some of my favorite media, such as Tank Girl, Lollipop Chainsaw, Persona, Star Fetchers, and even Blade Runner. The game is incredibly punky, super neon, and absolutely gorgeous in its pink-glitter grime.

The game’s style is most noticeable in its character designs, which range from dorky businessmen to the coolest punks you’ll ever meet to genuinely freaky demons with an uncomfortable aura. What I enjoy most is that even the characters who stand out feel completely believable in their appearance—like someone I’d see at the mall. Someone I’d see at the mall and immediately envy for their killer outfit, sure, but still someone imaginable.

Sorry We’re Closed also nails its LGBTQ+ representation, which I adore. In a time where even mentioning a character’s gender or sexuality can spark online complaints about “woke garbage,” Sorry We’re Closed unapologetically presents characters across the spectrum of sexuality, gender, and race. These aspects never feel forced or dwelt upon; instead, the world feels naturally and authentically diverse, with its people feeling like real people. The cast isn’t overly likable either, a mistake some games make. Each person you meet has noticeable flaws and annoying personality traits alongside their positive ones.

Gameplay-wise, Sorry We’re Closed is a nostalgic homage to classic survival horror. More than anything, it feels like someone took the original Silent Hill games, taught them how to shoot arcade-style like Killer7, and then dyed their hair.

You primarily navigate levels with fixed camera angles, solving puzzles and exploring using your Third Eye to peer between worlds. But when you go to hell, you’re bound to see demons. When the game needs you to fight back, it switches to a first-person arcade-style shooter reminiscent of Killer7. You’ll be shooting neon guns that feel loaded with paint or slashing with grim melee weapons that feel more flesh than blade.

Considering how often I praise horror games, this might sound like heresy, but I’m not usually a fan of fixed camera angles or arcade-style shooting. However, I found them pretty acceptable in Sorry We’re Closed, even beyond the nostalgia factor. I never felt annoyed by their use and struggle to imagine the game without them.

The writing shines brightest in dialogue and character. Each character feels unique, and I loved the little character moments and quippy one-liners, which were pleasant and nowhere near as overwhelming as, say, a Marvel movie.

The story, however, was a little weaker. I sometimes struggled to follow along. Things happen quickly, transitioning without much warning or buildup, leaving you to realize a few lines later that the story has progressed.

Combined with the fixed camera angles and lack of quest markers, this can lead to getting lost (or at least it led me to get lost), but it was never an issue that lasted more than a few minutes. If anything, it’s very nostalgic for classic Silent Hill and Resident Evil players.

The game’s ability to marry nostalgic gameplay with fresh, contemporary themes and a distinctly punk attitude makes it easy to recommend, especially to those craving something different, daring, and fun. Whether you’re in it for the demons or the neon, Sorry We’re Closed offers something that will stick with you long after the credits roll.

Try Hard Guides received a PC review code for this game. Find more detailed looks at popular and upcoming titles on our Game Reviews page! Sorry We’re Closed is available on Steam.