Unhinged Review: A Great Cast Trapped in a Clunky Concept

Unhinged, the latest horror title from Zach Cregger and David Fincher, is an interesting experiment in immersion that ultimately trips over its own ambition. As a 30-minute point-and-click horror experience available via Netflix, it attempts to blur the line between reality and the game by requiring players to use their own phone as a controller. While the concept is bold, the execution is hampered by technical frustration, earning it a 6/10.

The Pros and Cons of Phone-Based Immersion

The core conceit of Unhinged is that you are playing as Ava, and your physical phone acts as her device within the story. You use it to text her friend Claire for help or to shine a torch through the darkness of an apartment building plunged into blackness by a hurricane. When it works, it is a clever way to bridge the gap between player and protagonist. When it doesn't, it is a constant source of annoyance.

The biggest issue is that the game forces constant, disruptive communication. Throughout the short runtime, Claire is constantly calling or texting, which breaks the tension rather than building it. It became so frustrating that I eventually put my own phone on 'do not disturb' just to get a moment of peace. Furthermore, using a phone as a touch-based mouse is often imprecise. During the game’s quick-time events (QTEs)—where you must move quickly to escape or grab a defensive item before the killer lunges—the lack of accuracy can lead to unfair deaths.

Stellar Performances Carry the Weight

Despite the mechanical headaches, Unhinged is saved by its high-caliber cast. Zoë Kravitz delivers a strong performance as Ava, while Sadie Sink and Troy Baker provide excellent support as the friend and the killer, respectively. Their acting is far more immersive than the game’s gimmicky control scheme, grounding the story even when the gameplay feels like it is working against you.

If you are looking for a long, polished horror experience, this isn't it. However, if you are a fan of these actors and have half an hour to burn, it is a decent enough way to spend your time. It is a shame the game doesn't allow for standard keyboard and mouse inputs, as that would have likely solved most of the frustration I encountered.