The new horror-themed adventure/idle game, "Horripilant," developed by Alexandre Declos, presents a paradoxical experience for its reviewer. While individual elements of the game are met with appreciation and even admiration, the overall sentiment regarding the game itself is one of profound disappointment, stemming from what are described as "wider design failures." This creates a unique tension where many aspects are liked, yet the complete package falls short.

A significant strong point for Horripilant is its distinctive art style, which is lauded for its effectiveness in creating an unsettling atmosphere. The visual iconography draws inspiration from a diverse range of sources, from classic horror titles like "Uninvited" to the contemporary and often disturbing aesthetics found in internet creepypasta. This blend results in an aesthetic characterized by "leering grins," "too-open eyes," and "throbbing meat," all presented with a captivating lo-fi atmosphere that contributes powerfully to its sinister charm and unnerving quality.

Furthermore, the game's puzzles also receive commendation. These challenges frequently demand a considerable dose of lateral thinking from the player, a characteristic the reviewer believes many other throwback adventure games of this genre could greatly benefit from. The intellectual engagement offered by these puzzles stands out as another well-executed component within Declos' creation.

Despite these commendable individual elements—the captivating and unsettling art style, and the intelligently designed, engaging puzzles—the reviewer's ultimate conclusion is a strong disliking of the game as a whole. The core issue appears to be a disconnect between these well-crafted parts and the overall game experience, which is marred by "wider design failures." This suggests that while components are strong, their integration or the broader structural decisions prevent Horripilant from delivering a cohesive and enjoyable experience, leaving the reviewer with a sense of dissatisfaction despite acknowledging its individual merits.