REVIEW: Sci-fi game takes player out of this world
There I was, in a pitch-black hallway on a necromorph-infected space station with no ammo and hardly any health. Even the slightest noise was cause for concern, and I responded to each accordingly by turning and shining my light in the direction of the disturbance. With each moan I hear in the claustrophobic scenario causes my heart to beat faster and faster.
Finally a light at the end of the tunnel, freedom, or so I thought. The next thing I know I have the sword-like limb of an alien creature sticking from my chest I drop to the floor dead. I jump off the couch, pause the game and take a second to catch my breath and try to reflect on what just happened. It was at this moment that I realized “Dead Space 2” is the scariest game I have ever played, and I can’t wait to come back for more.
The events of “Dead Space 2” take place on the Sprawl, a giant space station that orbits Saturn’s moon Titan. It has been three years since we left Isaac floating in the space around Aegis VII. He awakes to find the sprawl crawling with necromorphs, and from here on out Isaac is in a fight for his life as he and the other survivors attempt to escape the Sprawl, with the Government and the crazy church of Unitology constantly getting in the way. These are the ingredients for what becomes an absolutely terrifying game.
The story line in “Dead Space 2” is excellent. The writers at Visceral games have created an exciting, incredibly well-crafted Narrative that pulls you in and does not let go. They have managed to continue Isaac’s story in a way that not only makes the series better, but also manages to explore the effects of Isaac’s horrific past on his sanity. The events that happened on the USS Ishimura have scarred Issac and he suffers from frequent hallucinations of his dead girlfriend Nicole, as well as non-existent necromorphs, making sure you never feel comfortable. “Dead Space 2” has one of the strongest stories in a game to date will keep with you long after you finish it.
From a technical standpoint, “Dead Space 2” preforms nearly perfectly. Graphically it is stunning. The game boasts some of the best lighting I have seen in some wonderfully detailed environments. Character models are also great, some of the necromorphs are absolutely horrifying. The game does, however, have some flaws in this area. It can get incredibly dark to the point that its frustrating and weird physics will cause some snags here and there.
“Dead Space 2” truly shines in the sound department. The constant moans and groans of the Sprawl will constantly keep you on your toes and the unsettling silence of space does not offer any more comfort. The game is also scored incredibly well. Music always fits the moment and is only there when appropriate. The game’s use of sound is the best of any I have ever played it really doesn’t get better than this. Not to mention there are few things more terrifying than the shriek of a necromorph right before it jumps out behind you.
Game play in “Dead space 2” is excellent as well. Smooth gun play and a variety of weapons makes cutting the limbs off of necromorphs incredibly fun and really allows you to approach the game any way you please. Zero G sections are back, but this time you have complete control – cause for two of the coolest events in the game. I also have two major beefs, however. The first is that there is still no quick turn ability. This would not be a problem but the game loves to throw in enemies behind you. Seriously, always watch your back. The second is that the game can get difficult to the point of frustration near the end. There always seems to be way too many enemies and not enough ammo.
In the end, “Dead Space 2” is the new standard for the survival horror genre. The game’s incredible pacing, story and sound have raised the bar for all games that follow. “Dead Space 2” is one of the most terrifying experiences and is the first can’t-miss game of 2011.
– nathan.c@aggiemail.usu.edu