TEAM EVALUATION / Dead Letter Dept. (PC)

In a world where we often find ourselves glued to computer screens, typing out emails or filing insurance forms, stumbling upon a game that mimics this mundane routine seems unlikely. Yet, Dead Letter Dept. invites players into its eerie realm, where you’ll find yourself immersed in typing gibberish into a virtual computer on your actual screen. This odd and unsettling experience starts creeping into your mind as soon as you hit ‘play.’ It stirred memories from my stint at an accounting firm, where I’d lose hours in database entry, my mind wandering off with the help of a Spotify playlist.

In Dead Letter Dept., your mission is straightforward—process details from old, undelivered mail. These might include letters, addresses, news clippings, or bizarre scripts that seem out of this world. You play as a newcomer to a sprawling city, navigating life in a cramped apartment filled with unpacked boxes and a temporary data entry gig. The dystopian vibe is set right away, with the industrial, narrow hallways casting ominous shadows everywhere. Amidst this bleakness, there’s a strange comfort in the vintage computer you’re given for work.

Starting your first in-game day is simple enough, though there’s an underlying sense that something is amiss. I’m not the fastest typist, clocking in at around 67-69 words per minute with roughly 92-93% accuracy, yet this game isn’t about speed. Instead, it’s a test of endurance as the days unfold and more sinister elements are introduced into your tasks. The seemingly innocent typing turns into a disturbing discovery of chilling writings and unsettling imagery. Without giving too much away, expect a ride that keeps you on edge, complete with jump scares that defy the typical horror game tropes.

I’m admittedly hard to please when it comes to games and other media. Initially, I had low expectations for Dead Letter Dept., yet I was completely captivated by its mysterious and chilling narrative. It’s a journey that you really have to experience for yourself, so dive in and see where it takes you!

Alex Southgate

When it comes to horror games, I usually turn to my friend Madeleine who revels in all things spooky. Joining her in playing this creepy, dystopian typing game has been a unique adventure. Dead Letter Dept. excels at psychological horror, focusing more on building a tense, watchful atmosphere than relying on jump scares. Sitting at your computer, you can’t shake the feeling that you’re being watched. It’s more haunting than terrifying—a discomfort that lingers long after you stop playing.

You start by transcribing random mail texts, but soon the jumbled fragments begin to feel like they’re woven with hidden messages just for you. Whether your character fled from a dark past or stumbled upon forbidden knowledge is unclear, but the path inevitably leads to a nightmare with various possible endings.

Throughout the six in-game days, the story hooks you, begging to be replayed for different outcomes. It’s designed for those ready to immerse in a lengthy session since you’ll only have one save per run. Dipping in and out would dampen the eerie atmosphere, so make sure you have time to see it through.

Despite my usual aversion to horror, I found Dead Letter Dept. strangely enjoyable. It transforms typing mechanics into something fresh, with a storyline intriguing enough to beckon players back. The game skillfully combines unsettling visuals, intuitive controls, and fitting music, making it feel like you’re living through an unnerving short story worth multiple reads.

Even as someone who’s squeamish about horror games, I was engrossed by Dead Letter Dept. It’s a game that naturally lends itself to being played with friends, waving goodbye to the perceived need for a hand-holder like Madeleine for once. It’s an experience I highly recommend to anyone intrigued by a blend of mystery, suspense, and psychological intrigue, regardless of their usual gaming preferences.

This review stems from a game copy generously provided by the publisher.

Dead Letter Dept. Review

• Gameplay: 10/10
• Plot/Writing: 9/10
• Design/Visuals: 8/10
• Replayability: 9/10

Overall Score: 9/10**

Mail Worth Reading

Dead Letter Dept. delivers a spine-chilling voyage into madness, transforming mundane data entry into a gripping horror tale. Whether you’re a horror aficionado or someone who hesitates before stepping into the genre, this game promises a captivating and unique experience.