The Callisto Protocol is a survival horror video game developed by Striking Distance Studios and published by Krafton. Released in December 2022, the game is set in the year 2320 on Jupiter's moon, Callisto. Players take on the role of Jacob Lee, a former soldier who finds himself trapped in a high-security prison called Black Iron, located on Callisto. The prison becomes overrun by terrifying creatures and otherworldly horrors, forcing Jacob to fight for his life as he uncovers dark secrets about the prison's experiments.
The game draws inspiration from classic survival horror titles like Dead Space, with which it shares some of the same developers. It features a tense and atmospheric environment, where players must navigate claustrophobic spaces, solve puzzles, and fight off monstrous enemies in brutal, close-quarters combat. The gameplay emphasizes resource management, making every bullet, health pack, and upgrade crucial to survival.
The story unfolds through Jacob's interactions with other characters, environmental storytelling, and the gradual discovery of the twisted experiments conducted at Black Iron. The narrative also delves into themes of corporate greed, ethics, and the unknown horrors of space exploration.
The Callisto Protocol is known for its high-quality graphics, detailed character animations, and intense combat mechanics. It utilizes a third-person perspective and offers players a mix of action and horror elements, with a focus on visceral, intense moments. The game also includes a story mode for those who want to experience the narrative without as much difficulty, as well as other difficulty settings for more experienced players.
While it has received praise for its atmospheric design, horror elements, and visual fidelity, The Callisto Protocol has also faced some criticism for its pacing and reliance on combat over exploration, with some players feeling that it could have offered a more varied or innovative gameplay experience. Nonetheless, it remains a notable entry in the survival horror genre.
