The Callisto Protocol Review: Space Terror That Will Leave You Screaming for More!

Image this – it is 2320 and the place of your residence is the third moon of Jupiter and an orbital satellite of Jupiter i.e. Callisto. Only there is something not right – instead of enjoying your stay you are apparently held in some sort of fortress without even bars, making it more advanced in terms of security measures than a prison. A prison containing loaded and mutated animals who are more likely than not about to unleash themselves on you, the intruder. Commonly referred to as The Callisto protocol, an entire regime which is currently undergoing a lot of problems and where you not only have to try and solve them but also stay alive if there is any possible undoing in the first place.

This sci-fi horror game, developed by Striking Distance Studios, hit the shelves on December 2, 2022, ready to scare the living daylights out of you. But is it the next big thing in survival horror? Let’s break it down with a flashlight and a bucket of bravery!

Table of Contents

What Exactly is The Callisto Protocol?

The Callisto Protocol is a third-person survival horror game set in the lovely (read: horrifying) Black Iron Prison on Callisto, one of Jupiter’s moons. Our unlucky protagonist, Jacob Lee, somehow gets himself locked up, and if that wasn’t bad enough, an outbreak turns the other inmates into Biophages—zombie-like creatures that are super eager to give you an up-close-and-personal tour of their teeth.

And for fans of space horror, here’s a fun fact: Glen Schofield, one of the masterminds behind the legendary Dead Space, is behind this game. So, yes, expect some seriously creepy vibes.

Platforms: Where Can You Scream?

You can experience all the scares on your favorite platform of choice. The Callisto Protocol is available on:

PlayStation 5
PlayStation 4
Xbox Series X|S
Xbox One
PC

Whether you’re a console fan or prefer the good ol’ mouse and keyboard combo, you’re covered. Nowhere is safe, really.

The Storyline: Monsters, Mutants, and More Space Drama

The plot kicks off with Jacob crash-landing onto Callisto and getting tossed into Black Iron Prison. Why? No idea. And honestly, it’s probably the least of your worries, because surprise! the inmates have turned into Biophages, and they’re not looking for a chat.

Your mission? Escape this moon-sized nightmare while uncovering the mysteries of the outbreak. No biggie, right?

Along the way, you’ll face plenty of nasty surprises, so expect a few jump scares and heart-pounding moments that might make you rethink your life choices. (Or at least your gaming ones.)

Gameplay: Hope You Like Running Low on Ammo

Survival horror games love to make you sweat over every bullet, and The Callisto Protocol is no different. Ammo? Rare. Health packs? Also rare. Your nerves? Definitely going to be tested. Every enemy encounter feels like a do-or-die situation, which is both exciting and stressful in the best way possible.

One thing that stands out is the game’s melee system. You’ll get up close and personal with these monsters—and by “personal,” I mean swinging weapons and hoping for the best. Ranged weapons are there too, but don’t expect to have a full arsenal at your disposal. It’s all about scavenging and making do with what little you have.

Visuals and Atmosphere: Bring a Spare Pair of Pants

The atmosphere in Callisto Protocol is nothing short of amazing. It’s beautifully hideous (an audacious kind of beauty that you never want to experience). And the light is so well positioned, it is impossible not to feel scared to play at midnight, every hallway, every flickering lamp, and every shadow is a challenge.

Notably specked details enhance the ambiance in Catacombs and they include the eerie prison, an abode with unique architectures as well as disturbing enemies who guard the player. That being said, the tall enemies are literally nightmarish. Not to forget the death sequences; be ready to cast these with great horror (bemoan that bodies again!) if you know what I mean. (In a good way!)”,

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Space Trauma?

You asked whether it was advisable to fight against the humans in alien suits, the ones who look terrible and can be characterized as mutants? If you love horror in outer space, yes. Callisto Protocol has all the good points: it is scary and it is heart-wrenching and also visually captivating. It also leaves you constantly wanting to know what is going on next.

That said, the game has its rough patches. Some players might find the controls a bit clunky, and the story is a little on the linear side. But hey, if you’re in it for the atmosphere and the scares, you probably won’t mind too much.

Rating: 7.9/10

The Callisto Protocol may not live up to the glory of Dead Space which is essentially its spiritual predecessor, however, it delivers a great overall atmosphere of space terror and should make your hair stand on end. But just to be on the safe side, leave the lights on while you play, unless, of course, you want to put your courage to the test.

Ready for a Prison Break?

Have you braved the horrors of Callisto yet? If you’re a sucker for spooky space stuff and mutant monstrosities, this game is calling your name. Just remember: in space, no one can hear you scream… but your neighbors probably can when you leap off the couch!