Dinsun Review
I hesitate to even call POOLS a 'game' in the traditional sense, but I can't deny its effectiveness. There are no objectives, no scores, and no enemies. You simply walk. And yet, I haven't felt this much genuine tension in a title in years. It taps into something primal—the fear of the infinite, the 'offness' of a space that should be crowded but is utterly empty. The tiling, the lighting, and the echoing splash of your own footsteps create an environment that is both beautiful and deeply unwelcoming.
It’s a 'walking simulator' in the purest form, but it understands its niche perfectly. The lack of a HUD or any gamified elements makes the immersion absolute. My only real criticism is the price-to-content ratio for some; at six chapters, you can finish it in an afternoon. But for those of us who value a specific, high-quality experience over endless 'content,' POOLS is a standout. It’s an art piece you can walk through, and it’s one of the few mobile ports that actually feels like it belongs on a high-end display. It’s unsettling, slow, and wonderful.
Overall Stats
Pros & Cons
- Unparalleled atmosphere and immersion
- Stunning sound design that carries the experience
- Unique aesthetic that captures the 'liminal space' vibe perfectly
- Very short playtime for the price
- Zero replay value once you've seen the architecture
- Literally no gameplay mechanics beyond walking
Technical Report
Performance: Features an 'Ultra' graphics mode; needs a powerful device to avoid frame drops in complex rooms.
- Controller Support
Audience Fit
Buy if: You are fascinated by the Backrooms or enjoy atmospheric 'walking simulators.'
Skip if: You need combat, puzzles, or a traditional narrative to enjoy a game.
- The Stanley Parable
- The Backrooms (various)
- Proteus
Reviewer Context
- Reviewer: Dinsun, 40-year-old conservative gamer
- Hardware: iPhone 15 Pro
- Playtime: 2.5 hours
- Status: Finished all 6 chapters
