Aspyr Media launched its debut virtual reality (VR) title Torn back in August, bringing the puzzle adventure to Oculus Rift, HTC Vive and PlayStation VR. As VRFocus previously reported, the studio collaborated with Perp Games to bring a physical release to retail shelves just for PlayStation VR, with European territories seeing copies hit stores today.
Torn is a dark, science-fiction mystery inspired by The Twilight Zone and Black Mirror, where you play Katherine Patterson, a video blogger looking to uncover the secrets of an abandoned mansion. Previously owned by Dr Lawrence Talbot who mysteriously disappeared, you need to solve the various puzzles that stand in your way, uncovering the storyline as you alternate between Talbot’s mansion and another dimension known as ‘The Parallel’.
All the puzzles are manipulated using the ‘Gravity Tool’, a special device created by Talbot. This enables you to interact with a lot of the environment, being able to throw tables, chairs, and even pianos with the flick of a wrist.
VRFocus reviewed the PC version of Torn, giving it a commendable four stars whilst saying: “Torn is a beautiful title to look and showcases a premium level of detail and quality that’s only ever found in a few VR titles. The puzzles themselves maybe on the simple side and the ending is somewhat underwhelming yet that doesn’t detract from the wonderful adventure as a whole, with Torn evoking a charming strangeness that carries you through.”
Of the physical release announcement, Michael Blair, Director of Sales at Aspyr Media says in a statement: “We were inspired by the feeling of Black Mirror and the Twilight Zone, and wanted to create a truly dark and unexpected cinematic gaming experience in VR. Torn pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in VR, and we can’t wait for gamers to discover the secrets of the Mansion.”
“Dark; atmospheric; moody; mysterious. This is what VR gaming is all about,” said Rob Edwards, MD of Perp Games. “Fans of VR are in for a huge treat and we are extremely proud to be releasing Torn as a physical product.”
Torn is now available at EU retailers on PlayStation VR with a North American release to follow. For further updates keep reading VRFocus.