Detention - Games

In gaming, 'detention' often symbolizes confinement and psychological tension, used to create oppressive atmospheres in horror or narrative-driven titles. It manifests through restricted movement, claustrophobic environments like abandoned schools or prisons, and mechanics that limit player agency. This concept explores themes of authority, punishment, and isolation, forcing characters—and players—to confront internal or external threats within constrained spaces. Designers leverage detention to build suspense and emotional weight, making escape or resolution feel earned. It's a versatile tool for examining human resilience under duress, turning physical limitations into compelling gameplay and storytelling devices.