Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

The Cardinal Sins offers classic point-and-click mechanics that will feel immediately familiar to fans of the Ben Jordan series. Players guide Ben through a series of environments—ranging from cozy family homes decorated for Christmas to the shadowy backstreets of Rome—by selecting actions like “walk,” “talk,” “observe,” and “pick up.” The inclusion of a straightforward action menu keeps the learning curve gentle, allowing newcomers to find their footing without feeling overwhelmed.

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Puzzles are woven seamlessly into the investigation. Whether interrogating suspects or combining items in your inventory, each challenge is designed to fit naturally into the narrative. There are no arbitrary pixel hunts or overly obscure solutions; inch-perfect clicking is never required. Instead, you’re prompted to think like a detective, using context clues from dialogue and environmental observations to unlock the next step of the case.

One of the strengths of this installment is the way it balances linear progression with optional exploration. While the main storyline pushes you toward uncovering the truth behind Alessandro Renzi’s alleged possession and the murder of a priest, side details and red herrings enrich the experience. Conversations with Simon Booth and Alice Wilkins often open up small detours that reward the curious player with extra backstory or unique pieces of evidence.

The interface is clean and responsive. Inventory items are clearly displayed, and combining objects is as simple as dragging one icon onto another. This intuitive design keeps you immersed in the investigation rather than wrestling with clumsy controls. Overall, gameplay in The Cardinal Sins strikes an ideal balance of challenge and accessibility for both series veterans and newcomers alike.

Graphics

Graphically, The Cardinal Sins embraces a retro-inspired pixel art style that lends the game a timeless, storybook feel. Characters and environments are rendered with enough detail to convey mood and expression, yet remain clean enough to avoid visual clutter. The snowy holiday backdrop of Ben’s hometown contrasts beautifully with the dark, gothic architecture found in the Roman chapters.

Color palettes shift intelligently with the narrative’s tone. Warm reds and golds fill the familial Christmas scenes, evoking comfort and nostalgia, while desaturated grays and deep blues dominate when the investigation turns ominous. Lighting effects—such as candlelit rooms or the flicker of a streetlamp—add depth and atmosphere, heightening tension during key moments.

Character sprites are animated with subtle gestures that bring each individual to life—Ben’s thoughtful head-tilt, Alice’s confident posture, or Renzi’s jittery movements hinting at possible possession. Backgrounds often include interactive hotspots, cleverly integrated into the art, that invite closer inspection without breaking immersion.

While The Cardinal Sins does not rely on high-end graphical horsepower, its art direction successfully evokes a sense of place and narrative weight. The balance of festive cheer and creeping dread is visually cohesive, making exploration a pleasure as you uncover new clues and revisit familiar locales under different lighting conditions.

Story

The narrative kicks off with a poignant holiday setup: Ben Jordan enjoying Christmas with his family, only to be thrust into a chilling murder investigation halfway around the world. This contrast between familial warmth and the darker undercurrents of the occult immediately hooks the player. Alessandro Renzi’s plea for help feels urgent and personal, forcing Ben to juggle professional duty with concern for his friend’s well-being.

As the investigation unfolds, themes of faith, possession, and moral transgression take center stage. The Cardinal Sins cleverly weaves references to the traditional seven deadly sins into dialogues and character motives without becoming overly pedantic. Instead, these themes elevate the mystery: is Renzi truly demon-possessed, or is someone manipulating him for darker ends?

Supporting characters Simon Booth and Alice Wilkins add valuable dynamic to the storyline. Their banter and individual expertise—Simon’s historical knowledge and Alice’s forensic insight—open up different investigative avenues. The interplay among the trio feels genuine, with each conversation revealing new layers of backstory or seeding doubts about who might be lying.

Plot pacing is one of the game’s strong suits. Tension builds methodically, punctuated by well-timed revelations and red herrings. Moments of quiet reflection—examining a bloody altar or reading cryptic diary entries—contrast effectively with high-stakes interrogations. By the time the final act arrives, the stakes feel personal, and the resolution—while not entirely predictable—fits neatly within the established narrative logic.

Overall Experience

The Cardinal Sins stands out as a polished, full-featured entry in the Ben Jordan series. At roughly two to three hours of playtime, it offers a satisfying self-contained mystery without overstaying its welcome. The free, independent nature of the game makes it an excellent value for fans of narrative-driven adventures.

Atmosphere is a major selling point here. From the cozy Christmas hearth to the candlelit crypts of Rome, each scene feels thoughtfully crafted to support both the mood and the mechanics. Background music and sound effects—crackling fireplaces, distant church bells, faint whispers—further cement the sense of place and suspense.

While the game is accessible to newcomers, veteran players will appreciate the nods to previous cases, minor character cameos, and thematic continuity. The Cardinal Sins also does a commendable job balancing exposition and discovery, ensuring that you never feel lost yet remain driven by curiosity.

Ultimately, Ben Jordan: Paranormal Investigator Case 7 – The Cardinal Sins offers a well-rounded, engaging experience. It combines intuitive gameplay with an atmospheric presentation and a gripping narrative. Whether you’re seeking a brisk holiday-themed thriller or a thoughtful exploration of sin and redemption, this free indie title delivers in spades.

Retro Replay Score

7.8/10