Gratiarum for Windows

A dark horror game set during the holidays

Gratiarum is a free-to-play horror game that presents an intriguing narrative set against the backdrop of a quintessential Thanksgiving celebration. This game ingeniously juxtaposes the warmth and camaraderie of the holiday season with a chillingly eerie tale of familial discord, as experienced by the protagonist, Christopher. 

In Gratiarum, Christopher is led by a voice in his head that directs him throughout his eerie adventure to gather the proper ingredients for his family’s Thanksgiving feast. The interactive gameplay and haunting storyline are treats for players who enjoyed titles like Fears to Fathom: Home Alone and The Lost Fear.

Atmospheric and immersive

The game's narration is outstanding, creating a genuinely terrifying atmosphere that lingers long after the game is over. Its engaging storytelling tactic not only helps the players immerse themselves in the protagonist, Christopher's, world but also acts as a catalyst for the game's deeply engrossing storyline. Gratiarum’s lore is another standout feature, adding an extra layer of depth that is profoundly satisfying. 

This intricate fabric of backstory unfolds progressively throughout the gameplay, revealing more about the characters' pasts and establishing a captivating world within the game. The shocking dark twist and thrilling scares are unexpected yet delightful bonuses that add to the excitement and intrigue. From a visual perspective, the game does not disappoint either. Its graphics are commendable, contributing to the eerie atmosphere and enhancing the overall gaming experience. 

The detailed designs underscore the narrative and cement the unsettling ambiance that the game strives to achieve. However, it is worth noting that this adventure-based horror title does have one significant drawback: a lengthy installation process. Players must enable special permissions to allow their devices to run programs downloaded from unknown sources. This requirement is non-negotiable as the game’s indie status can be flagged by your device as a suspicious file.

Worth the extra work

In summary, Gratiarum masterfully combines chilling horror elements with a deeply moving family drama set during a holiday that’s meant to be filled with joy and cheer. With its exceptional narration, compelling storyline, and well-crafted graphics, this game is a dark, deliciously twisted treat that guarantees to leave its players both terrified and deeply satisfied. Just be prepared to take a few extra steps in order to freely play and enjoy the game.