South of Midnight Review
Once upon a time, there was a girl with magic powers….
South of Midnight: Swampy Magic Meets Family Mystery
South of Midnight is like stepping into a Southern Gothic folk tale that someone whispered to you on a porch swing at midnight. Equal parts eerie, soulful, and heartfelt, it’s a story-driven action-adventure that weaves folklore, family, and fighting spirits into one unforgettable journey.
Story & Setting
You play as Hazel, a young Weaver whose world has literally been torn apart by a hurricane. Her mother is missing, her town is wrecked, and she’s suddenly thrust into a surreal Southern landscape where myths come to life. Rougarou, Catfish, Huggin’ Molly—they’re all here, lurking in swamps and shadows.
The central theme is healing: Hazel’s weaving powers don’t just fight monsters, they mend broken bonds and patch together the pieces of a shattered past.
Gameplay: Thread the Needle
Hazel’s toolkit is refreshingly tactile:
Melee combos that flow smoothly.
Strand Blasts that knock enemies back after a perfect dodge.
Push and Pull spells that control both fights and puzzles.
Weaving magic that ties it all together—literally.
Combat isn’t overly complicated, but it has a satisfying rhythm, like stitching together scraps of chaos.
Style & Sound
This is where the game truly shines. The art direction is drenched in Southern Gothic atmosphere—abandoned houses, misty swamps, broken bridges, all with painterly textures. Cutscenes even use stop-motion animation, giving the whole thing a haunting, handmade quality.
The soundtrack blends blues, folk, jazz, and swampy banjo riffs with cinematic weight. It feels alive—like the land itself is humming along.
Hits and Misses
What Works:
Gorgeous art style and unique folklore setting.
Emotional, well-voiced story with a strong sense of place.
Combat that feels smooth and connected to Hazel’s identity.
Music and atmosphere that linger long after you quit playing.
What Could Be Better:
Combat loops can get a little repetitive.
The story is fairly linear—don’t expect sprawling exploration.
Some encounters end quickly, leaving you wanting more.
Final Verdict
South of Midnight isn’t the flashiest action game out there, but it’s easily one of the most atmospheric. It’s a game about stories—personal ones, cultural ones, mythical ones—and how they bind us together. If you’re into folklore, moody atmospheres, or just want something soulful and different from the usual blockbuster fare, this is a midnight journey worth taking.