Discover the World of POOLS

POOLS, available on PC, invites players to wander through a surreal tapestry of empty rooms and winding mazes. The experience feels less like a game in the traditional sense and more akin to navigating an art gallery. Its atmosphere is heavy, instilling a sense of oppression without the threat of monsters or sudden scares. Instead, the tension comes from the player's navigation in unfamiliar, echoing spaces.

A Sound-Driven Experience

In POOLS, sound design plays a crucial role. Absent is the typical user-interface, dialogue, or background music. The game relies solely on ambient sounds to create an almost tactile environment. Each room you enter has a distinct echo, while the sensation of walking through water changes your pace. This choice cultivates a feeling of presence, enhancing the oppressive atmosphere as you traverse tight spaces and shadowy corners.

Embracing Liminal Spaces

Inspired by internet phenomena related to liminal spaces and the concept of the Backrooms, POOLS immerses players in a world that constantly morphs. As you advance through six chapters, each lasting between 10 to 30 minutes, the environment transforms—highlighting different facets of the uncanny. These shifts evoke a sense of mystery and exploration that keeps players engaged, curious about what lies beyond each doorway.

Minimalistic Design Choices

The minimalistic design philosophy further enhances the eerie charm of POOLS. There are no characters to meet or narratives to unravel, which allows players to project their own emotions and stories onto the experience. The game thrives on exploration, as each chapter provides a unique visual and auditory puzzle that challenges your instincts and sense of direction. The absence of traditional storytelling mechanics compels players to consider their surroundings deeply.

Thematic Influences in POOLS

Jared Pike, among others, significantly contributed to the idea behind “Poolrooms.” POOLS finds inspiration in the unsettling qualities of backrooms, emphasizing themes of isolation and disorientation. The influence of analogous works, such as Kane Pixels' The Backrooms and Anemoiapolis, is evident throughout the game's design. Players may find familiar motifs that resonate with the popular culture surrounding lost spaces and forgotten architecture.

Exploring New Frontiers in Gameplay

While players won’t encounter enemies or quests in POOLS, challenges arise from navigation and environmental exploration. The game hinges on the ability to adapt and make sense of your surroundings in a world that is ever-changing. Each location demands attention to detail, encouraging players to listen closely for audio cues that guide their way. This design choice creates an engaging challenge that feels both rewarding and exquisite.

Delve Into Each Chapter's Mystery

Every chapter in POOLS introduces players to a distinct atmosphere that captivates the imagination. Transitioning from one room to another, you’ll notice the subtle changes in light, sound, and layout. Each setting evokes varying emotions, from calm introspection to rising unease. As you journey deeper, the sense of a greater mystery unfolds—a reflection on the nature of space and presence that defines a truly atmospheric exploration.