The Shore is a gorgeous game. I think it's the one thing that stands out to everyone who sees the previews. And it really is a beautiful game with effects that are well done. Unfortunately, this is the only good thing the game has going for it.
The game is spooky... at times. In other instances, not so much. There was a part where I was in the lighthouse reading a piece of parchment, and the music shifted making me think the horror I had just read about was now behind me. It wasn't, however I was thoroughly spooked. Another instance was when you're in a maze or temple. It's really dark, and you can hear your heart beating with loud rising music in the background. This was definitely a moment that was meant to frighten me, but completely failed because I was inconvenienced by how dark my surroundings were.
I think the story behind the game is interesting. I would say I'm hooked, because I'm interested in where the story leads to and how it ends. However, getting there is a majority of the journey and it's a dull and boring journey. You spend way too much time just slowly walking around. Walking is slow. Sprinting isn't much better. I definitely believe an increase to the movement speed is needed to make exploring the game feel less cumbersome.
The combat in the game feels like an afterthought. In the scope of the demo, combat didn't play a large part in it, but I was left unimpressed by what I had experienced. Fighting felt awful and clunky, couple that with the monster animations and you have a mess on your hands. The monster animations aren't great, they Naruto run at you, stop and then animation lock themselves in their attack. The animations are really fluid and well done, but it all felt a bit silly considering this was a combat encounter. Ranged wasn't much better, you don't have a crosshair so aiming was difficult at times.
The music felt off. Don't get me wrong I think the music is great on its own, however I think the timing in which music is played is out of tune with the game. Let's go back to my example of me being in the lighthouse and being spooked by the music, that was really well timed, but I think that was just a coincidence. There were several other occasions where the music would pick up randomly while I'm walking or doing something minor. I'd look around to see nothing, and all I was left with was confusion. I think the music application could be done better, the music on the other hand is really good.
So would I recommend this game/demo? Not currently. I think the game has potential, it just needs some adjustments and polish. I'm definitely interested in the story, where it goes, and its conclusion. I will be checking back and following the development process. Hopefully adjustments are made, and this game can really shine.