Hotel Barcelona improves Steam rating and removes AI voices

Intelligence Summary
- See how Hotel Barcelona improved its Steam rating and which updates changed the gameplay.
In brief
- Hotel Barcelona has improved its Steam rating from 'Mixed' to 'Mostly Positive'.
- The recent 'Under New Management' update delivered major gameplay improvements.
- AI-generated voices have been removed from the game’s VHS segments.
GAME-scanner analysis
Since launching in 2025, Hotel Barcelona, developed by Hidetaka 'Swery' Suehiro and White Owl, has undergone a notable transformation. The game, which initially received mixed reactions, has now improved its Steam rating to 'Mostly Positive' as of June 10, 2026. This suggests that recent updates, especially the 'Under New Management' update in March 2026, have had a positive impact on the player experience. The update not only improved gameplay, but also significantly changed the game’s overall atmosphere.
The decision to remove AI-generated voices from the VHS segments shows that the developers are actively listening to player feedback. These kinds of changes can increase player engagement and improve the game’s overall feel. Recent reviews are now showing as 'Very Positive', confirming the growing appreciation for the game.
What does this mean for players?
For players, this development means Hotel Barcelona now offers a more polished and enjoyable experience. Improvements to combat and flow make the game more accessible and appealing to both new and returning players. And with the promise that work on the game is not finished yet, players can look forward to future updates that may bring even more improvements and new content. This could also strengthen the game’s position in the indie gaming segment.
Timeline
2026-06-10: Hotel Barcelona’s Steam rating improves to 'Mostly Positive'.
March 2026: The 'Under New Management' update launches.
Sources
Tweet van @Swery65Tweet van @Swery65Hidetaka "Swery" Suehiro's oddball roguelike Hotel Barcelona didn't impress us when it dropped last year, but there was something charming and earnest about it. But months later - and many updates later - Swery and White Owl appear to have turned opinion around.