Daily PC Game Review Score: 7.5 / 10Game Category: Adventure - HorrorDate: 3 Jan 2011
Penumbra: Overture is the first episode of a horror themed first-person adventure series from
Frictional Games. It is an incredible effort by them (I believe it's their first game release). The game definitely belongs on your gaming shelf because of it's uniqueness and sheer plain feeling of horror you encounter throughout the game. I dare you to play this in the middle of the night with the volume cranked up. Be prepared to jump out of your skin.
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| The main menu |
The game places you in the role of Philip. He sets out to Greenland in search of his father after receiving a mysterious letter from him. Upon arriving in Greenland, Philip finds himself alone in a cabin. He then makes his way out into the blizzard and eventually makes his way into a really creepy underground compound. And that's when you will truly feel immersed as you explore the crypt-like environs of the compound - hoping to find an answer to the letter of your missing father.
Upon entering the compound, you will find barrels, empty ammunition boxes (what are they doing here?), and shelves lined with expired food... but as you progress further, look out for notes and other items, some of which will help you further in the game.
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| Will you need the map? |
Be prepared when playing this adventure game, because it is not a first person shooter. Don't think you can shoot your enemies and live to fight another day. In this game, it is wiser to hide in the dark. You do this by crouching in a dark area (there's lots of this), turn off all light sources and stay real still. If you do it right, a surreal twilight blue tint of your environs will be your reward.
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| Shhh! Stay real still |
You can pick up and even manipulate objects, this is thanks to the physics implemented in the game. For example, in the ship's cabin, you can pull on the lamp hanging in your cabin and then release it... To my surprise it swings around crazily like in real life. Or, what about using a hammer to break down some wooden boards. The possibilities are endless.
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| If only I could take the lamp with me... |
The inventory screen is small and neat and you just have to double-click on an item to put it to use or even use the handy slots. At the left is also a health and battery status. If it runs out, you better make sure you have an alternate light source.
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| Your inventory |
The music is to a minimal, but the voice and sound effects really suck you into the game; I hate it now whenever I hear a door creaking. And when you are attacked, you better be prepared for a barrage on your senses. Well, I shall not reveal too much, you will just have to get the game to understand what I mean.
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| Ahhh... light |
Now, as for replayability, you will be glad to know there are three modes. In the game, you can either run or fight. Trust me, you'd rather run and live to fight another day!
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| Nope... "Hard" is too intense for me |
I recommend Penumbra: Overture strongly. It's a good start to a horror series. I do take this game out now and then, to give it another spin; perhaps more to give me my daily dose of fright. I got this game off Steam and it installed and started without a hitch.
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