Rob reviews Five Nights at Freddy’s: Security Breach on Xbox Series X…
Over the last couple of nights I’ve found myself fully enthralled with FNAF: Security Breach. It’s not my first rodeo within Scott Cawthon’s world, however it’s the one that’s captured my attention the most. The vast interconnected world of the Freddy Fazbear Mega Pizza Plex is a far cry from the cramp corridors of the traditional pizzeria that made the original such a cult classic. Not only does Cawthon give us a bigger playground to get lost in, it allows for a greater narrative to be shared across. When you also factor in that the whole Five Nights at Freddy’s narrative has been entwined since it’s debut - more story is a good thing!
The narrative in Security Breach is more robust than previous titles in the series. Taking the role of Gregory, a young boy who finds himself trapped within the Mega Pizza Plex, along with an unexpected ally, Gregory will have to survive the night whilst trying to uncover the dark secrets that surround the establishment. Across the night Gregory will also be hunted by the menagerie of animatronics that call the establishment home. None of these are more sinister than Vanny, a sinister white-rabbit who stalks Gregory across the dark corridors. With plenty of lore and Easter eggs that go back well into FNAF history, there’s plenty here to keep fans engaged across the experience.
Unlike its predecessors Security Breach introduces a refreshing change in gameplay. No longer confined to a stationary office (or bedroom), Gregory is given full run of the Mega Pizza Plex, which also offers multiple areas to explore. While you’re initially funnelled down a linear path, as you gain security levels you’ll be able to open up hidden pathways, and shortcuts. The freedom of movement adds a new layer of tension, as players must constantly be on the lookout for lurking animatronics while navigating complex environments. The inclusion of stealth mechanics and hiding spots adds a strategic element to the game, making each encounter more engaging and nerve-wracking. For fans of the previous FNAF titles, Security Breach does feature some of those classic gameplay elements such as monitoring security doors, and performing intricate maintenance on the animatronics. Even with the classic elements, there’s plenty of new stuff too. One particular area sees you activating power nodes while a gigantic DJ animatronic haunts you across the vast arcade. There’s a heck of a lot of nail biting tension that feels like a natural progression from what we’ve seen before.
Another worthwhile addition is that certain collectables can upgrade Gregory’s equipment. Across various locations you’ll find battery upgrades for his torch, as well as Freddy Fazbear styled energy drinks that’ll raise the stamina bar. It’s a nice addition that not only potentially makes things a little easier, it also opens the game up to extra challenges if you wish.
On the Xbox Series X, Five Nights at Freddy’s: Security Breach delivers a visual feast. Of course with the free roaming aspect, graphics are a significant step up from its predecessors. There’s plenty of detailed character models and hauntingly atmospheric environments. The animatronics are also particularly well-crafted, with each exuding a sense of both wonder and terror. Personally I would of loved a gallery mode, or even a pacifist mode so we could freely wander the complex to take everything in. Especially as some of the more interesting places seem to whizz by as you’ll be running from Freddy and the gang.
The sound design is one of the game's strongest aspects, intensifying the horror experience. From the unnerving hum of the Mega Pizza Plex to the unsettling screeches of the animatronics, each audio element perfectly contributes to the game's atmosphere. The use of positional audio on the Xbox Series X adds a layer of immersion, allowing players to pinpoint the location of approaching threats based on sound cues.
Much like the other FNAF titles, Security Breach does offer a high level of replayability. Across the night you’ll be given choices as to where in the Pizza Plex you’ll wish to go which will then dictate what equipment you’ll be able to use. Animatronics can also be encountered in different areas, which also depends on certain routes you take. There’s also multiple endings to uncover too, which again, all depends on your own actions across the nights. Likewise, there’s a whole wealth of collectables to uncover with each adding to the atmosphere of the Mega Pizza Plex’s day-to-day operations, and merchandise that spreads across Fazbear Entertainments fictional history.
Five Nights at Freddy’s: Security Breach successfully rejuvenates the franchise by introducing new gameplay mechanics, a captivating story, decent graphics, and a terrifying soundscape. It delivers a spine-chilling experience that will keep players engaged right through to the nights end. The game's ability to create tension, combined with its immersive world and rewarding exploration, makes it a must-play for horror enthusiasts and fans of the series. Whether you're a newcomer or a seasoned veteran of Five Nights at Freddy's, Security Breach promises an unforgettable and chilling gaming experience.
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