House of Necrosis: Classic Horror & Tactical Dungeon Crawling

Last Updated: October 22, 2025

Developer Warkus has delivered a unique blend of classic survival horror and strategic dungeon exploration with the Steam release of *House of Necrosis*. The title masterfully fuses the beloved aesthetic and atmospheric tension of retro *Resident Evil* with the unpredictable, turn-based mechanics of a mystery dungeon, captivating fans of both genres with a fresh perspective on what a horror-infused roguelike can be.

The gaming landscape is constantly evolving, yet some concepts remain timeless, often finding new life through innovative combinations. *House of Necrosis* stands as a compelling example of this trend, drawing inspiration from the foundational elements of 90s survival horror while injecting the strategic depth characteristic of mystery dungeon games. Its successful launch has provided players with a thoughtful, chilling experience that challenges them to adapt and strategize within a terrifying, ever-changing landscape.

Embracing the Retro Horror Aesthetic

The immediate appeal of House of Necrosis stems from its strong evocation of retro Resident Evil vibes. This aesthetic translates into a specific set of design choices that prioritize atmosphere and a sense of vulnerability over pure action. The game features a tank-controlled hub world and pre-rendered backgrounds, enhancing the cinematic feel while limiting the player’s field of view to contribute to a constant sense of unease. Resource management is a cornerstone of the experience, with ammunition, healing items, and inventory space being scarce commodities. This forces players to make difficult choices about when to fight, when to flee, and what precious items to carry. The narrative unfolds through environmental storytelling and cryptic notes, deepening the psychological horror and immersing players in a world where survival is never guaranteed.

The Strategic Depths of a Mystery Dungeon

While the visual and atmospheric cues nod to classic horror, the core gameplay loop of House of Necrosis is fundamentally rooted in the mystery dungeon genre. Players encounter procedurally generated levels, ensuring that each playthrough offers a fresh challenge and prevents rote memorization. The unpredictability of dungeon layouts, enemy placements, and item drops demands constant adaptation and strategic thinking. Exploration is a perilous endeavor, with hidden traps and unexpected encounters lying around every corner. This roguelike structure, combined with the horror setting, creates high stakes and amplifies the tension of every decision.

Turn-Based Combat: A Calculated Approach to Terror

The implementation of turn-based combat within this horror framework is a standout design choice. Unlike real-time action horror where quick reflexes are paramount, the turn-based system transforms every encounter into a tactical puzzle. Players must meticulously plan their movements, attacks, and item usage, considering enemy positions, their character's abilities, and the environment. This deliberate pace paradoxically heightens tension; instead of frantic action, players are given time to contemplate their potential demise, making each decision fraught with consequence. Positioning is crucial, allowing players to exploit environmental chokepoints or avoid being surrounded. Understanding enemy attack patterns and weaknesses is essential for survival, ensuring that encounters are not merely tests of strength but intellectual challenges where a single misstep can lead to a swift and brutal end.

A Synergistic Blend of Genres

The true genius of House of Necrosis lies in the unique synergy it creates between these distinct genres. The retro Resident Evil atmosphere provides the perfect backdrop for the perpetual dread and uncertainty inherent in mystery dungeons. The psychological tension of slowly creeping through a dark, derelict mansion is magnified by the fact that its layout is never the same. The scarcity of resources, a hallmark of survival horror, gains even greater significance when combined with the randomized nature of dungeon crawling, where finding a crucial item might be the difference between life and an untimely demise. This fusion delivers a game that is not just scary, but intellectually stimulating, requiring players to engage both their primal fear responses and their strategic planning capabilities simultaneously.

A Must-Play for Horror and Roguelike Fans

House of Necrosis has successfully delivered on its ambitious premise, standing out as a thoughtfully crafted and cerebral horror experience. Its innovative blend of classic survival horror aesthetics with the replayability and tactical depth of a turn-based mystery dungeon game ensures it appeals to a broad spectrum of players. From those who fondly remember the golden age of fixed-camera horror to fans of challenging roguelike experiences, the game delivers a memorable and terrifying journey into the unknown. It stands as a testament to clever indie design, offering a fresh take on terror that emphasizes careful thought as much as chilling atmosphere.