Dead Space - Initial Impressions [360] [Archive]

fitbabits

10-11-2008, 03:23 PM

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a390/fitbabits/DeadSpaceLogo.jpg

As some of you may already know, I've been very impressed with Dead Space since I was fortunate enough to get a chance to play it for myself some time ago. I took it upon myself to spread the word for what I believed at the time was shaping up to be a title of monumental importance in the gaming world. I decided that, come review time, I would handle the coverage of this game differently. I'd put my neck on the line singing its praises and I felt I owed it to you guys to fess up if something somehow went awry with the game in the time between my preview and the review. After all, nobody wants to throw $60 at something that's simply not worth it, right?

This is how I decided to handle it - write my initial impressions after playing the game for some time, preferably before the game hits retail, so that anyone on the fence would have more information to justify (or not) a purchase, then follow it up a few days later with my final review.

I received my review copy in the mail from Electronic Arts yesterday and proceeded to rip off the cellophane packaging and fire it up. Oddly enough, I was a little hesitant - 'will it be as good as I remember?', 'did I lose myself in the hype and let my better judgment fall by the wayside?', etc.

After playing my review copy for somewhere between 8 and 10 hours, I'm delighted to report that it's even better than I remembered from my preview. Everything about the game so far positively reeks of quality - the graphics, the sound, the atmosphere... You can tell from the get-go that Glen Schofield and his team really believed in Dead Space and were set on releasing the best game they could. I've seldom come across a game that's put together as well as this - it controls remarkably well, the camera is non-intrusive, the interface is absolute genius in the way that it increases the believability of the experience... I could go on, but I'll save it for the review, which should be ready on Monday.

The bottom line, so far, is this - in Dead Space, Electronic Arts have proven to me that they are very capable of funding and supporting original ideas and are willing to take a risk on a new IP. It's also clear to me that the guys at EA Redwood Shores know a thing or two about making games.

Check back this Monday for my final review, and thanks for reading.

Spigot

10-11-2008, 03:27 PM

astranoir

10-11-2008, 03:30 PM

You're making me so excited, and really impatient! Ack :p

Phades

10-11-2008, 03:30 PM

That's great stuff to hear, James. Between your initial reactions a while back and seeing some footage here and there on the net, I'm very excited about this game... and I was someone who was pretty much ready to write it off a long time ago as yet another sci-fi shooter. The fact that it's not and is very much a survival horror game just tickles me to no end.

I'm still curious about your reasons for recommending the 360 version in the other thread though...

It was probably because that's the version he was receiving from EA.... That makes your decision pretty easy.

The reviews I've seen so far haven't mentioned any differences other than the suits you can dowload for either version.

Crittias

10-11-2008, 03:33 PM

I'm still curious about your reasons for recommending the 360 version in the other thread though...Me too. Any reason to recommend AGAINST the PC version? Especially if your PC has magical properties?

Spigot

10-11-2008, 03:33 PM

Ok. As long as it wasn't anything more sinister. I haven't heard anything about glaring problems with the other versions so I figured it was something a little more innocuous.

fitbabits

10-11-2008, 03:35 PM

Me too. Any reason to recommend AGAINST the PC version? Especially if your PC has magical properties?
I can't comment on the PC version, unfortunately, having not played it.

Phades

10-11-2008, 03:39 PM

Thanks for the impressions by the way. Based on what you wrote last time I went out and preordered this game. I'm really excited for it now!

Spacetronaut

10-11-2008, 03:39 PM

I'm getting more and more excited about this game. I'm going to have to sell a kidney or something to afford all the games this fall.

rinichanraar

10-11-2008, 03:48 PM

Fantastic news (for everyone except my wallet). :p

crazyD

10-11-2008, 03:50 PM

Me too. Any reason to recommend AGAINST the PC version? Especially if your PC has magical properties?

Because it is a port that wasn't made with the PC in mind.

fitbabits

10-11-2008, 03:52 PM

Because it is a port that wasn't made with the PC in mind.
Actually, the PC and 360 versions were developed side-by-side.

Gorvi

10-11-2008, 04:00 PM

Actually, the PC and 360 versions were developed side-by-side.
So is there something wrong with the PS3 version that we're not hearing? Done by a b list team or something?

Disgustipated

10-11-2008, 04:02 PM

So is there something wrong with the PS3 version that we're not hearing? Done by a b list team or something?

No, the PS3 version was done by the same team as far as I know. I'm sure any glaring differences will be revealed in full shortly after release.

fitbabits

10-11-2008, 04:04 PM

So is there something wrong with the PS3 version that we're not hearing? Done by a b list team or something?
No, nothing at all. Picking up either version will, I'm sure, result in a very similar experience.

Gorvi

10-11-2008, 04:07 PM

No, nothing at all. Picking up either version will, I'm sure, result in a very similar experience.
Good to hear. I really wish I had the time to pick this up next week. :(

crazyD

10-11-2008, 04:12 PM

No, nothing at all. Picking up either version will, I'm sure, result in a very similar experience.

Then why did you recommend the 360 version in that other thread?

bean

10-11-2008, 04:17 PM

fitbabits

10-11-2008, 04:21 PM

I read a bunch of gushing paragraphs, but I have no idea what makes the game special beyond good controls, camera, and UI. How is the atmosphere of the game (music, art & sound) as these are key selling points in making a survival horror game scary? Are the character voices believable? Is the combat fun? Does it have depth?

I'm not saying a preview should be a full review, but that is probably 500 words and only 3 details.

I reread this to make sure this came off as constructive feedback and not insulting. If you find some insult in it anyway, I apologize in advance and can only tell you that I've gone out of my way to try and make sure that it is not.
I'm going to quote a paragraph for you:

After playing my review copy for somewhere between 8 and 10 hours, I'm delighted to report that it's even better than I remembered from my preview. Everything about the game so far positively reeks of quality - the graphics, the sound, the atmosphere... You can tell from the get-go that Glen Schofield and his team really believed in Dead Space and were set on releasing the best game they could. I've seldom come across a game that's put together as well as this - it controls remarkably well, the camera is non-intrusive, the interface is absolute genius in the way that it increases the believability of the experience... I could go on, but I'll save it for the review, which should be ready on Monday.This was never intended as an in-depth preview or anything - just my initial impressions.

I decided to post them because I've spent a lot of time 'talking up' Dead Space and wanted to let you guys know how things compared to my earlier preview.

As I said in the original article, my review will be ready on Monday.

NoName

10-11-2008, 04:27 PM

Haha, I was wondering why Fitty seemed to be on his 360 non-stop for so long. Now I know :D.

Sly Marbo

10-11-2008, 04:32 PM

My wallet is weeping. I can't afford so many awesome games, but I have to have them.

Purple Santa

10-11-2008, 05:04 PM

Haha, I was wondering why Fitty seemed to be on his 360 non-stop for so long. Now I know :D.

Does James know you are stalking him online? Do we have to get a restraining order? ;)

My wallet is weeping. I can't afford so many awesome games, but I have to have them.

I feel your pain...or my wallet does anyway...I am renting Dead Space from Gamefly and bought Saints Row 2 instead...I was lured in by the pre-order goodies...now i'm thinking I should get Dead Space...ugh...I can't afford this...

Shandor

10-11-2008, 05:39 PM

Glad to hear you're enjoying the game so far. I've been looking forward to this one for a while now.

flogging.joey

10-11-2008, 06:04 PM

This game is going to be amazing...too bad I wont be around to buy or play it. Same goes for left for dead, and anything else coming out in the next 3 months. Im going to be very sad out at sea hearing about how great all these games are.

infissige

10-11-2008, 07:38 PM

When I try to upload avatar in .JPG i see : Fatal error: Call to undefined function: imagecreatefromjpeg()
and avatar is not saved.

With avatars in .gif everythink is OK.

diablopath

10-11-2008, 07:44 PM

Please, fits, I'm begging you.
You have alluded in other posts to 360 over PS3.

Why? :(

MachEnergy

10-11-2008, 08:07 PM

I'm already buying LittleBigPlanet, Fable2, Fallout3, and Gears of War2....Dead Space is a SURE rental for me, but I really wish I could afford to just buy it. Hell, more precisely, I wish I had the time to PLAY all these great games.

It really is hard to tell this sob story to non gamers. :) My wife keeps saying, "awww, poor baby".

KingGorilla

10-11-2008, 09:10 PM

Mr.Green

10-11-2008, 09:28 PM

James, you know that because of you I'll get this game on day one right?

How does that make you feel?

fitbabits

10-11-2008, 09:35 PM

Please, fits, I'm begging you.
You have alluded in other posts to 360 over PS3.

Why? :(

Both versions will be exactly the same out the gate.

Rogue_hunter

10-11-2008, 09:44 PM

Both versions will be exactly the same out the gate.

So, previously unannounced DLC exclusive to 360...seems completely opposite of EA though. They want money more than exclusitivity, so Microsoft threw money and install base numbers at EA.

Ugh, exclusive DLC. Instead of the big AAA third party exclusives, we're getting everything multiplatform, but exclusive DLC instead. Sadly, I have yet to see exclusive DLC actually make a difference. Still not convinced the GTA4 DLC is going to be groundbreaking and "the second coming." (Though, I wasn't entirely blown over by "how awesome" GTA4 was. Victim of over-hype)

Rune_74

10-11-2008, 10:07 PM

heheh some ps3 fans up in arms over an innocent comment? Buy the game for the system you own or whatever, get over it.

Iron Past

10-11-2008, 10:09 PM

So, previously unannounced DLC exclusive to 360...seems completely opposite of EA though. They want money more than exclusitivity, so Microsoft threw money and install base numbers at EA.

Which is still wierd. MS would have to pay alot of money to convince EA to exclusively release DLC for Live, but one would assume they hope to make it back in sales and downloads. However, since it's unannounced, people will already be buying it for whichever platform they choose, negating sales numbers for initial purchasers. Something doesn't add up, unless they just want to flip off Sony and give the illusion that the X360 will continue to gain exclusive DLC.

diablopath

10-11-2008, 10:23 PM

heheh some ps3 fans up in arms over an innocent comment? Buy the game for the system you own or whatever, get over it.
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m236/Trelane1/Movies/WhySoSerious.jpg

HALO 32

10-11-2008, 11:01 PM

Well I just finished Hell's Highway so I could go for Dead Space...but I'm not much for spooky games :(...except for Bioshock...but I still could give it a chance.

That is if Bioshock is considered a "spooky" game.

Wasson_

10-12-2008, 03:45 AM

No Bioshock isn't a spooky game. When their is no penalty for dieing...it isn't scary.

infissige

10-12-2008, 05:39 AM

When I try to upload avatar in .JPG i see : Fatal error: Call to undefined function: imagecreatefromjpeg()
and avatar is not saved.

With avatars in .gif everythink is OK.

AboveAvgCharles

10-12-2008, 05:45 AM

When I try to upload avatar in .JPG i see : Fatal error: Call to undefined function: imagecreatefromjpeg()
and avatar is not saved.

With avatars in .gif everythink is OK.
I'm not sure why you're posting this here, but make sure the file isn't more than 80 by 80 pixels or 195.3 KB in size.

President Fred

10-12-2008, 08:06 AM

Looking forward to your review. I am sort of on the fence with this one, I have no idea why: the thing is one of my favourite movies and I have enjoyed virtually every survival horror game I have ever played. But I am just not to excited, hopefully this will be to my advantage and my low expectations will result in me loving the game.

National Kato

10-12-2008, 09:25 AM

So the 360 will have some sort of DLC exclusives later on? They really should put that info out there prior to launch. I'm not sure why keeping it a secret does any customer good.

Dukefrukem

10-12-2008, 09:27 AM

I can't wait for this game. I can't wait for your review!

bean

10-12-2008, 10:59 AM

So the 360 will have some sort of DLC exclusives later on? They really should put that info out there prior to launch. I'm not sure why keeping it a secret does any customer good.

This is true. However, the marketing on this has been all around fairly low. Fitbabits is telling us it is going to be a fantastic AAA title, and I think I first heard about it just a few month's ago at this year's E3. They haven't been giving big developer interviews (to my knowledge) or developer diary videos at game trailer sites either.

So maybe this is just a symptom of overall poor marketing.

National Kato

10-12-2008, 11:18 AM

I'm also a bit befuddled about the IGN review, where they state that there is a Game+ option, but that you can't change the difficulty on the additional playthrough?? That sounds like an oversight on their part.

Don't get me wrong, I'm still excited to play Dead Space. But as a purchase, I'd love to have all options open to me.

Ancalagon

10-12-2008, 11:41 AM

Okay, a few questions:

1. Do you upgrade your character, or just your weapons? How much focus is there on upgrading and exploring?
2. Between this and Fallout 3, what would it be?

fitbabits

10-12-2008, 11:47 AM

Okay, a few questions:

1. Do you upgrade your character, or just your weapons? How much focus is there on upgrading and exploring?
2. Between this and Fallout 3, what would it be?
1. You can upgrade your weapons, your suit, your equipment.
2. This, without question. (Note - I'm probably going to get Fallout 3 as well.)

bapenguin

10-12-2008, 11:59 AM

Dukefrukem

10-12-2008, 12:00 PM

pomeroy

10-12-2008, 12:06 PM

No Bioshock isn't a spooky game. When their is no penalty for dieing...it isn't scary.

I would argue that just because you can die in a game doesn't make it scary either. Annoying would be the word I'd choose.

And horror is pretty much just like comedy. Everyone is going to have their own taste.

fitbabits

10-12-2008, 12:38 PM

I still haven't seen a single thing about this game that sets it apart from other things this fall except for the atmosphere.

Everything I saw from it at E3 and PAX just didn't grab me. Maybe it's just not my thing.
If by now you're not interested in it, then I suspect it's a lost cause.

Maybe it's because Dead Space is unlike anything I've played before in terms of overall production values and playability? I can't put my finger on any singe thing that makes it so great. It's just the overall experience.

bapenguin

10-12-2008, 02:07 PM

You not into horror games? what did you think of Condemned 2?

It was ok, felt very forced. The first Condemned was much better IMO.

If by now you're not interested in it, then I suspect it's a lost cause.

Maybe it's because Dead Space is unlike anything I've played before in terms of overall production values and playability? I can't put my finger on any singe thing that makes it so great. It's just the overall experience.

Could be, I'm definitely going to give it a shot. It could have been the settings in which I played the game in.

Sandman

10-12-2008, 02:13 PM

Damnit man, I can't afford this fall already.

BlackPete

10-12-2008, 03:20 PM

Could be, I'm definitely going to give it a shot. It could have been the settings in which I played the game in.

I'm beginning to equate games to movies. With a movie -- the dimensions are pretty much the same: Same screen, same aspect ratio, same film, same hardware, etc. Just sit back and watch. Only the actors and storyline change when you go from movie to movie which elicit different emotional responses.

I've been guilty of this in the past -- but I'd caution against simply tossing a game into a "YAFPS" pile on technicalities alone.

KingGorilla

10-12-2008, 06:59 PM

Damnit man, I can't afford this fall already.

Dude, we cannot afford ANY fall season.

MagGnome

10-12-2008, 10:15 PM

This game is tempting, but I'm such a weanie when it comes to scary games. I really enjoyed Silent Hill 2, but I haven't been able to get into a survival horror game since. I just freak out.

I may not get any of the big games this fall, at least not at release. I'm so far behind on games I want to play already, so I might just wait until the games coming out during the next couple of months get cheaper.

Of course by the time that happens even more games will be coming out...I can't win. :(

rinichanraar

10-12-2008, 10:24 PM

This game is tempting, but I'm such a weanie when it comes to scary games.

Me, too. I love survival horror, but I get really scared easily. I think with Dead Space, I'm going to have to ease into it. Like, start off playing with the lights on and only when my boyfriend is around. Then, I can slowly increase the creepiness level.

I never did finish Fatal Frame 2. And luckily for me, Resident Evil 4 wasn't scary (though the zealots were a little creepy, I guess).

fitbabits

10-12-2008, 10:26 PM

Me, too. I love survival horror, but I get really scared easily. I think with Dead Space, I'm going to have to ease into it. Like, start off playing with the lights on and only when my boyfriend is around. Then, I can slowly increase the creepiness level.

I never did finish Fatal Frame 2. And luckily for me, Resident Evil 4 wasn't scary (though the zealots were a little creepy, I guess).

This game is tempting, but I'm such a weanie when it comes to scary games. I really enjoyed Silent Hill 2, but I haven't been able to get into a survival horror game since. I just freak out.

I may not get any of the big games this fall, at least not at release. I'm so far behind on games I want to play already, so I might just wait until the games coming out during the next couple of months get cheaper.

Of course by the time that happens even more games will be coming out...I can't win. :(

I hope this doesn't scare you both off (heh!), but I had to stop playing last night because I was so immersed and enthralled that my heart was racing and my nerves were jangling... It wasn't until I paused it for a coughing fit that I realized I was terrified.

Spigot

10-12-2008, 10:32 PM

I hope this doesn't scare you both off (heh!), but I had to stop playing last night because I was so immersed and enthralled that my heart was racing and my nerves were jangling... It wasn't until I paused it for a coughing fit that I realized I was terrified.
Oh man. You've just made my week. That's the kind of feeling I yearn for when I play a survival horror game. Siren: Blood Curse is the only game I've played recently that really hit those notes, and I hear the new Silent Hill isn't bad for that either, but it'll be nice to get it in something that isn't a spooky town.

Oh, and I'll be working evenings all next week, so that means lots of late nights.

inmostlight

10-13-2008, 07:51 AM

Since you've played it....what's the saving situation like? Is it check point or save at any time? If it's check point, how are they spaced?

One of the things I hated about Resident Evil 4 and many other survival horror games was that I had no way of knowing if the next chance to quit is 5 minutes or an hour away. During the week I can only play in short bursts and hate getting into situations where I am dragged along for much longer than I can/want to play, waiting for a save spot to appear.

fitbabits

10-13-2008, 07:55 AM

inmostlight

10-13-2008, 08:10 AM

I'll talk about it more in the review, but the saving system is a combination of both. Save points are plentiful and very well placed. Checkpoints are also very frequent. I haven't had to retrace my steps once.

That's great news. Thanks!

Young Al Capone

10-13-2008, 08:15 AM

Thanks for the impressions James, sounds like the game is great!

Wedge

10-13-2008, 09:22 AM

Eurogamer isn't equally impressed (http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=259466) and gives it a 7/10. (IGN gave it 8.7 and Gamepro 5/5)

Snippets:

You spend a huge chunk of the story running backwards and forwards across the Ishimura, fixing a series of core systems at the behest of Kendra and Hammond. Each time you fix one element, they pop up to tell you something else is malfunctioning or missing. It gets to the point where you half expect them to ask you to find some toner for the photocopier and fetch them a sandwich from the shop.

It turns what should have been a nail-biting fight for survival into a wearying series of petty chores, forcing the gameplay into a predictable routine for the first two-thirds of its playing time. As far as horror goes, nothing kills the mood faster than predictability and when you have to include dialogue for your characters commenting on the seemingly fruitless repetition of what they're doing, that's usually a sign that the pace of a game needs closer attention.

None of these criticisms will detract from your enjoyment, provided all you want from a game is the opportunity to repeatedly turn evil monsters into red mush in gorgeous HD detail. Dead Space easily delivers on that promise, but fails to turn its polished production values into something truly memorable over the long haul.

Now all we need is a total "hate it" review and we have a true love/hate title.

Young Al Capone

10-13-2008, 09:56 AM

1up review is up (http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3170597&p=4), and I didn't like the sounds of it at all. It is a mostly positive review, but the reviewer described a game that is exactly what I had feared this would be. One quote imparticular is disheartening.

Assuming you weren't misled into expecting something along the lines of Silent Hill, however, I don't think you'll be disappointed.

I am still interested, but the more I read the more it sounds like a horror shooter than survival horror. I guess my expectations were just off.

Wedge

10-13-2008, 10:42 AM

The parts from these two reviews that turn me off the most is that they both completed the game in...(spoiler tagged for those who do not want to know when the end is approaching by looking at the clock)...11-12 hours, when in behind-the-scenes videos they've been saying 15-20 hours. 11-12 hours is a tad short for a game w/o multiplayer, and particulary if these hours are padded like they say in the reviews.

Also, I've heard AgtFox's penis is a solid 9 inches long. Kudos!

AgtFox

10-13-2008, 10:44 AM

The parts from these two reviews that turn me off the most is that they both completed the game in...(spoiler tagged for those who do not want to know when the end is approaching by looking at the clock)

Yeah, I was afraid of that. What developers say and what actually happens are unfortunately dissimilar in a majority of cases.

fitbabits

10-13-2008, 10:45 AM

The parts from these two reviews that turn me off the most is that they both completed the game in...(spoiler tagged for those who do not want to know when the end is approaching by looking at the clock)...11-12 hours, when in behind-the-scenes videos they've been saying 15-20 hours. 11-12 hours is a tad short for a game w/o multiplayer, and particulary if these hours are padded like they say in the reviews.
Take it from me - it's longer than your spoiler text indicates.

AgtFox

10-13-2008, 10:52 AM

Take it from me - it's longer than your spoiler text indicates.
Valid question is do you have options for what you can do ala Assassin's Creed where you could decide to do side stuff or not (making the experience longer)...or is it pretty straightforward?

Another good example would be the original Fable. I blew through the game since I wasn't too interested in the side stuff that was offered, think it took me 10 hours or less.

fitbabits

10-13-2008, 10:53 AM

Valid question is do you have options for what you can do ala Assassin's Creed where you could decide to do side stuff or not (making the experience longer)...or is it pretty straightforward?

Another good example would be the original Fable. I blew through the game since I wasn't too interested in the side stuff that was offered, think it took me 10 hours or less.

How you get from point A to point B is up to you, but the mission structure is pretty rigid. I actually prefer it that way - I hate meandering.

National Kato

10-13-2008, 11:49 AM

Take it from me - it's longer than your spoiler text indicates.

I always add about 2-3 hours to any reviewer's total, as they always seem to rush through the games. I like to take my time in the environments, get into the ambience, and explore.

Wedge

10-13-2008, 12:05 PM

Take it from me - it's longer than your spoiler text indicates.

Which part of my spoiler text?

Developers add hours, reviewers rush. My play times are usually much closer to the reviewer times. I sure hope you are right though, as it is 90% certain this is the game I'll pick up next week.

On the same note: One should think I would get used to <15 hour singleplayer games by now. It has become the norm. I think that is why I love RE4 so much. I can still remember how stunned I was when Resident Evil 4 lasted me 20 hours on my first time through. I expected the game to end at any time from when I hit the 12 hour mark, but it just kept on going without going stale.

fitbabits

10-13-2008, 12:10 PM

Which part of my spoiler text?

Developers add hours, reviewers rush. My play times are usually much closer to the reviewer times. I sure hope you are right though, as it is 90% certain this is the game I'll pick up next week.

On the same note: One should think I would get used to <15 hour singleplayer games by now. It has become the norm. I think that is why I love RE4 so much. I can still remember how stunned I was when Resident Evil 4 lasted me 20 hours on my first time through. I expected the game to end at any time from when I hit the 12 hour mark, but it just kept on going without going stale.

Well, I consider myself fairly well-versed in game playing. I've been playing it all weekend (probably about 16 hours or so, so far) and I've still to come across some of the levels I was able to play in my preview.

One thing worth noting - listen to and read the backstory in the audio/video logs and text logs respectively. I suspect that the people reviewing the game who are bemoaning the length skipped the story parts, thus missing out on a HUGE part of the game. It may also explain why some people were less immersed.

I will not review the game until I have finished it. If that takes a week to understand and appreciate everything the game has to offer, so be it. The amount of work that the Dead Space team put into the story deserves my attention - I wouldn't be doing my job properly if I ignored it in favor of finishing the game early so that I could be first with my review.

Wedge

10-13-2008, 12:21 PM

Well, I consider myself fairly well-versed in game playing. I've been playing it all weekend (probably about 16 hours or so, so far) and I've still to come across some of the levels I was able to play in my preview.

One thing worth noting - listen to and read the backstory in the audio/video logs and text logs respectively. I suspect that the people reviewing the game who are bemoaning the length skipped the story parts, thus missing out on a HUGE part of the game. It may also explain why some people were less immersed.

A fair and plausible explaination. Alright, I'll go into Dead Space expecting 15 plus hours. I won't skip any story segments and in fact seek these out, because I'm not stupid. If I spend less than 15 hours I'll show up on your doorstep demanding beer and a massage.

Also, check out my spoiler text again. I made a funny, and I'd hate for people to miss it.

Young Al Capone

10-13-2008, 12:55 PM

So what about this?

Assuming you weren't misled into expecting something along the lines of Silent Hill, however, I don't think you'll be disappointed.

Is it more "boo!" shooter or more brooding, atmospheric horror?

AgtFox

10-13-2008, 12:56 PM

One thing worth noting - listen to and read the backstory in the audio/video logs and text logs respectively. I suspect that the people reviewing the game who are bemoaning the length skipped the story parts, thus missing out on a HUGE part of the game. It may also explain why some people were less immersed.
Sounds very BioShock/System Shock/DOOM 3 like in this case.

fitbabits

10-13-2008, 01:08 PM

So what about this?

Is it more "boo!" shooter or more brooding, atmospheric horror?
It's both, actually. There's no reason it should be either/or.

I'm reading some of the reviews right now and it's clear to me that some of the people who reviewed it didn't take their time to enjoy it. The apathetic attitude in some of the reviews is shocking.

Young Al Capone

10-13-2008, 01:10 PM

It's both, actually. There's no reason it should be either/or.

Cool, thanks.

By the way, I never said it should be either/or. I wanted to know which catagory it fell into, because I am only interested in one.

fitbabits

10-13-2008, 01:23 PM

Cool, thanks.

By the way, I never said it should be either/or. I wanted to know which catagory it fell into, because I am only interested in one.
No, I know you didn't, but reading some of the reviews it's clear that some people wanted either/or and just didn't grasp the combination.

As I said - it's apathetic and lazy on their part.

Young Al Capone

10-13-2008, 01:29 PM

Either way, despite my misgivings, your enthusiasm has sold me the game.

Spigot

10-13-2008, 02:18 PM

I wonder if the longer length would be counting for people to take time to really poke around in the environment as opposed to just blasting from one end of the game to the other.

As long as it's an awesome 10-15 hours, I'll be happy. If it is longer and doesn't feel padded, I'll also be happy. Given the huge stack o' games barrelling down at me over the next week or two, I would be happy to have a game that I can finish in a week or so if it knocks my socks off.

MagGnome

10-13-2008, 04:43 PM

I never did finish Fatal Frame 2. And luckily for me, Resident Evil 4 wasn't scary (though the zealots were a little creepy, I guess).

I could never finish the first Fatal Frame, which is the only one I've played. It was just too creepy, and I moved on to other titles before I finished it, which is something that I do with a LOT of games.

I hope this doesn't scare you both off (heh!), but I had to stop playing last night because I was so immersed and enthralled that my heart was racing and my nerves were jangling... It wasn't until I paused it for a coughing fit that I realized I was terrified.

I may have to play this one with the lights on if/when I get it. :p

I was scared playing the first Half-Life, if that tells you anything. I remember one night in high school when I was playing the game and a headcrab surprised me. I screamed, and my mom ran downstairs to check on me. :o

Also, I can't recall exactly which game it was, but one night I was playing a survival horror title (either Silent Hill 2 or Fatal Frame I think) and I was so surprised by something in game that I let out a very loud, very girly, bloodcurdling scream. Pretty embarrassing. :o

Spigot

10-13-2008, 07:11 PM

I could never finish the first Fatal Frame, which is the only one I've played. It was just too creepy, and I moved on to other titles before I finished it, which is something that I do with a LOT of games.Heh. If you thought the first Fatal Frame game was scary, do not even walk past the sequel in the game store. I have a pretty high spook tolerance and actually seek out that creepy feeling when I game but dear lord, Crimson Butterfly is friggin' scary.

This is going to be a good week for scaremongers like me. I just fired up Silent Hill: Homecoming and watch the teaser movie and can't wait to play it for real later on tonight AND there's Dead Space which I probably won't be able to snag until Thursday (stupid work).

Woo!

MagGnome

10-13-2008, 07:50 PM

Let me know what you think of Silent Hill. I loved the second game but never got into any of the other ones.

johnperkins21

10-13-2008, 10:39 PM

I may have to play this one with the lights on if/when I get it. :p

Me and a buddy played D (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/D_video_game) with the lights out thinking, "how scary can a game be?" I remember at one point we were so freaked out that we flipped on the lights and had to go hang out outside for a bit. Scariest game I've ever played. RE 2 was pretty freaky to, but D was the only game that made me stop because I was scared shitless.

MagGnome

10-14-2008, 05:33 AM

Me and a buddy played D (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/D_video_game) with the lights out thinking, "how scary can a game be?" I remember at one point we were so freaked out that we flipped on the lights and had to go hang out outside for a bit. Scariest game I've ever played. RE 2 was pretty freaky to, but D was the only game that made me stop because I was scared shitless.

I've heard that D is quite terrifying.

There have been several gaming moments which caused me to run around turning on all the lights and take a break from whatever I was playing.

Young Al Capone

10-14-2008, 06:37 AM

There have been several gaming moments which caused me to run around turning on all the lights and take a break from whatever I was playing.

Silent Hill 2, Fatal Frame 2, The Shalebridge Cradle and Undying have all caused me to yell out "HELL NO!" and immeadiately turn off the console. I love when a game is that scary.

I will have to look into this D, as this is the first I have heard of it.

Spigot

10-14-2008, 08:32 AM

I've always wanted to play D.

Oh, and Maggie, Silent Hill: Homecoming is pretty decent so far, and I'm supposedly in the sucky part of the game. Sound is amazing and it really feels like a Silent Hill game, though that is a bit to its detriment as there are some game mechanics that probably should have been left back in the last generation (and the character models look kind of janky). But it had me creeped out last night, that's for sure.

Young Al Capone

10-14-2008, 08:38 AM

I think I may have to check out Homecoming. I have thus far full on ignored it, but everyone seems to think it is the real deal. So how is the scary factor?

Gorvi

10-14-2008, 08:40 AM

pheriannath

10-14-2008, 08:58 AM

Isn't D the one where the big story twist is that your dad is a vampire and you both ate your mother?

Gorvi

10-14-2008, 08:58 AM

Isn't D the one where the big story twist is that your dad is a vampire and you both ate your mother?
Yep, that's the one.

johnperkins21

10-14-2008, 11:02 AM

D is.... ok. It's a decent adventure game, but if I remember correctly, it's very short. I can still hear that odd voice saying "Laura, Laaaura!". It's one of the few games where I actually played the PC version.

I agree. Not necessarily a good game, just that it was scary. I usually don't get scared by movies or video games, it's just not in my nature. That game is the only one where I had to turn on the lights.

And it is short. Should only take maybe 4 hours to complete if I remember, but that was a long ass time ago.

bean

10-14-2008, 03:58 PM

The game that scared me the most was the original Scarry Picture Happy Game (er. . . Fatal Frame, that's just what we called it). The second game also was pretty scary, but it had places of absolute safety in it. . . and the "new" was gone. Plus, the first game managed much swifter plot development.

The second was harder and required you to get better with the camera, but that kind of took me out of the scares a bit. Instead of focusing on the story and ambience, I was looking at room layouts to see where the best place to "fight" a ghost would be.

Resident Evil 4 actually did that to a degree too. It is a far better GAME than RE 1 & 2, and it does manage to deliver some scares, but there are long moments in the game that are simply action/adventure rather than making me feel any kind of spookiness. A big ogre turns the game into an action game like God of War where I don't really believe the plot or think of the characters as being realistically fragile. Still, they did this masterfully in RE 4 because there were bits that felt like they could be real and thus were scary separated by moments that felt more like a very good action game.

Eternal Darkness has to be the second most freaky. I played this when I was a teenager, and I had not been told about the insanity mechanics in the game. I just thought it looked like a neat FPS. Eventually, I started laughing along with it, but there were moments when the insanity mechanics "got me".

Young Al Capone

10-14-2008, 04:03 PM

Resident Evil 4 wasn't necessarily scary. However, when you are getting overwhelmed it could be pretty panic inducing, making it a different type of terror.

At least for me; the feeling of twelve deranged, sickle wielding nutcases trying to kill me, without any concern for their own safety could be scary.

MagGnome

10-14-2008, 04:46 PM

Shandor

10-14-2008, 05:40 PM

Eternal Darkness has to be the second most freaky. I played this when I was a teenager, and I had not been told about the insanity mechanics in the game. I just thought it looked like a neat FPS. Eventually, I started laughing along with it, but there were moments when the insanity mechanics "got me".

Yeah, I enjoyed Eternal Darkness, but was a bit frustrated when I first realized how the insanity stuff fucked with you instead of your character. Meh... Otherwise, I liked the game a lot.

MagGnome

10-14-2008, 06:02 PM

I also enjoyed Eternal Darkness. It's the game I bought a Gamecube for. Of course I never finished it. :o

keldi

10-14-2008, 06:18 PM

Either way, despite my misgivings, your enthusiasm has sold me the game.

Same here.

keldi

10-14-2008, 06:25 PM

(I feel like a tool typing this, but it's the truth.)

The first game I remember playing that actually creeped me out was Colonel's Bequest. I don't know if it was more fear, or more anticipation, but that game had me on edge until the end.

If you haven't heard of it... it's a murder mystery set on a plantation in Louisiana. With the gameplay style (and visual quality of) the early King's Quest games. The sequel was creepy as well, and was a much better game in many respects. (Especially graphics and interface.) Both are available from the Underdogs site.

If you're feeling nostalgic for those two, try Yahtzee's Chzo Mythos games. They all start with a number, I think the games go Five/Seven/Six chronologically.

(I should point out that I was creeped out by Colonel's Bequest right when it came out... a long time ago. It still gets me on edge, but that may be nostalgia talking.)

MagGnome

10-14-2008, 06:25 PM

I said this in another thread, but this game really needs a demo.

Shandor

10-14-2008, 07:52 PM

I also enjoyed Eternal Darkness. It's the game I bought a Gamecube for. Of course I never finished it. :o

Hah, same here. Well, I didn't buy the Gamecube for it, but I think I still have 2 lives left to play. :)

fitbabits

10-14-2008, 07:55 PM

UPDATE - For those of you waiting for my review... It's coming. I'm not going to review it until I've finished it. I'm in no rush to be first - I owe it to you to play it as I would normally, not speed run through it and miss out on all the story elements.

Dukefrukem

10-14-2008, 08:18 PM

I was just about to ask where it was! I'm buying it tomorrow regardless.

Spigot

10-14-2008, 09:45 PM

I think I may have to check out Homecoming. I have thus far full on ignored it, but everyone seems to think it is the real deal. So how is the scary factor?I had a couple of instances last night where I was on the verge of turning on some lights... And I crave instances like that, so that's a good thing.

And I'm supposedly in the not very good part of the game. From all accounts, it gets even better the further you go...

Wasson_

10-14-2008, 09:45 PM

I think I'm going to trust Youngs judgment, he seems extremely adamant about the games quality.

harle

10-14-2008, 09:52 PM

I am so close to buying this game. Some reviewers have stated that is controls like Resident Evil 4, which is a huge plus in my book. I'm a sucker for atmospheric games, so it only strengthens my desire to have it NOW!

johnperkins21

10-14-2008, 10:59 PM

I said this in another thread, but this game really needs a demo.

You are correct sir.

National Kato

10-15-2008, 07:03 AM

Some reviewers have stated that is controls like Resident Evil 4...

Let's just hope the aiming responsiveness is less sluggish than in RE4.

Young Al Capone

10-15-2008, 07:07 AM

I had a couple of instances last night where I was on the verge of turning on some lights... And I crave instances like that, so that's a good thing.

And I'm supposedly in the not very good part of the game. From all accounts, it gets even better the further you go...

Definitely a good thing when you want to turn on lights, or go to get a drink just to get away for a moment. I live when games make me want to do stuff like that.

I'll have to check it out, maybe sometime early next year.

As for Dead Space, I tried to pick it up yesterday but couldn't find it. Hopefully today.

National Kato

10-15-2008, 07:42 AM

Word to the wise: there's a new 'launch trailer' on GameTrailers.com for Dead Space. If you don't want a major conflict completely spoiled, stay far away from it.

Honestly, I don't understand these marketing teams much. Why spoil something like that the day a game release? :confused:

Young Al Capone

10-15-2008, 07:48 AM

Thanks for the heads up.

I don't understand that either. I know that the developers want to give us a taste of just how much awesome is going to come, but they really need to try harder to not spoil appetites by showing too much.

National Kato

10-15-2008, 07:53 AM

I'm a bit pissed about it, actually.

Young Al Capone

10-15-2008, 07:57 AM

I'm a bit pissed about it, actually.

I cannot blame you. I have been avoiding any story elements of this game thus far with much success, to have something spoiled the day of release would piss me off too.

Sorry that you were burned like that, and by the developers of all people. At least usually it is some asshole who takes pleasure in that sort of shit, or an unknowing friend.

Shandor

10-15-2008, 06:46 PM

I'm a bit pissed about it, actually.

Understandable, but nothing there really phased me, though, as I read the comics already.

MachEnergy

10-16-2008, 06:21 AM

So I completed the first 3 chapters last night, and I have to agree with Fits that there is SOMETHING about the game that feels so right. I am leaning towards the augmented reality displays being that thing. Having the map, inventory, and mission info projected into the actual world just continues to make me smile. I'll even rotate the camera around during video logs so that my perspective is looking at the back of the video screen just because it looks THAT cool.

Having the inventory selection process not pause the game (reminds me of Phantasy Star Online) can be terror inducing, to say the least. I was in a zero-g/zero oxygen fight, and I was running out of air while being attacked. So, I had to run around and try to activate one of my reserve canisters of oxygen, all the while dodging claws.

Also, I don't think there are many things more panic inducing than when one of the creatures that have two arms and a "tail" thrust off a wall in a zero-g room, flying at your head with their arms flailing and their head seizuring around, snarling and screaming, as it rapidly gets closer to you. You only have a couple seconds to react! What do you do? Do you ready your gun and hope your aim is true? Do you attempt to redirect it's zero-g flight with a well timed melee attack? Do you dodge it and run away??

Seriously.......LOVING this game!

Spigot

10-16-2008, 07:54 AM

I just got to the start of Chapter 2 last night but man... Thank you, fitty, for bringing this to our attention. I would have completely overlooked this had you not started pimping it a while ago and am I ever glad you did.

I have to say that the production values are incredible. The music and audio are awesome but what really struck me were the graphics. I'd mentioned this to a couple of people yesterday, but this is the first 360 game that I've played that is on par with MGS4 from a graphical standpoint (MGS4 being my current standard bearer for in-game graphics this generation). It's simply oozing quality... and viscera... and necromorphs...

National Kato

10-16-2008, 08:50 AM

The amount of blood that sprays from severed limbs is pretty great. I can't tell how much remains on Isaac's rig afterwards, but I wish it was more. He ought to be dripping gore after some of these fights.

Young Al Capone

10-16-2008, 08:54 AM

Yeah, the arterial spray is a pretty nice touch. Plenty of spray, but not so much that it seems silly.

I really do wish that more of it would show up on Issac.

Shandor

10-16-2008, 05:50 PM

Can't wait for tomorrow, when I get this game. Can't wait for tomorrow night, when I get to play it. :)

crispy951

10-16-2008, 06:01 PM

Can't afford to buy it right now since I'm financing a new computer, but I will be renting it :D

Purple Santa

10-17-2008, 04:35 PM

I've always wanted to play D.

Wait...there was an obscure PS2 game that you DIDN'T play? :eek::eek:

Now that is scary...

Disgustipated

10-17-2008, 04:40 PM

Wait...there was an obscure PS2 game that you DIDN'T play? :eek::eek:

Now that is scary...

D wasn't on PS2, it was on the Saturn, PS1, and PC.

Spigot

10-17-2008, 05:39 PM

D wasn't on PS2, it was on the Saturn, PS1, and PC.You beat me to it. I missed out on the PS1 generation for the most part and while I did play a lot of PS1 games after I got my PS2, I didn't play ALL of them...

Psykoboy2

10-17-2008, 05:41 PM

I thought it was on the Dreamcast.

Spigot

10-17-2008, 05:55 PM

D2 was on the Dreamcast.

MachEnergy

10-21-2008, 06:41 AM

man, these bots are rather annoying

Kelegacy

10-21-2008, 06:42 AM

Played up to chapter 7 this weekend on Hard (which has me dying a LOT) and while I think the game is great, I don't find it scary. I think it has atmosphere, but even that atmosphere isn't creepy. The most memorable part of the game so far has been at the end of chapter 6. Other than that, I don't think the game has had (so far) any stand-out moments I will be recalling for years to come.

I think if perhaps I had been playing through on Medium, which I started with, I might be even less "scared". Hard mode really makes you worry a lot, especially when you're in a room (or fucking elevator) with 5 enemies at once, or wondering if the next room will kill you. That's survival horror.

Gorvi

10-21-2008, 08:03 AM

MachEnergy

10-21-2008, 08:10 AM

I plan on getting the game evenutally, maybe a bit after the holidays. Would you say that the game really should be played on Hard? Is Medium too easy?

I am on Chapter 9, playing on Medium, and I have to admit that it is slightly too easy. Rarely will I run low enough on ammo to be that worried. I may have to use a weapon I like less than others, but it isn't a survival concern. Also, I typically have enough cash to buy plenty of health items and ammo. The only time I was short on cash was when I sold a ton of items to afford the Level 4 suit. Since then, I've bounced back into riches.

My intention was to complete the game before Fable 2 shipped. Unforseen things (ie: REAL life), have delayed that. So now, I kinda wish I started it on Hard mode. Running out of ammo and health items DEFINED survival horror! Well, that and fucking limited typewriter ribbons....

Kelegacy

10-21-2008, 08:18 AM

I plan on getting the game evenutally, maybe a bit after the holidays. Would you say that the game really should be played on Hard? Is Medium too easy?

I thought Medium was way too easy. However, I find Hard mode too hard sometimes. Not exactly hard, but I tend to be a hoarder in these types of games, so I find myself replaying certain sections just to get by without spending too much ammo or getting hurt. On Medium, I had to bypass a lot of ammo and health packs because I had TOO MANY. I wasn't using enough to have room in my inventory to need them.

I die a LOT, or get the f*ck kicked out of me on Hard. Is it survival horror or an action game? Getting accosted in a tiny elevator by 5 enemies dropping through the ceiling is a bit absurd on hard. Tight quarters, and if you don't have stasis left you're gonna get hurt.

On Medium you can take out legs and arms with the default weapon with two shots I believe. If you upgrade it, it becomes even easier. There is no fear when you can take out an enemy with a tiny bit of ammo so early on in the game. However, I find myself wishing sometimes I was playing on Medium, just to get rid of that "aw crap, I died again and get to see the load screen once more" feeling.

If I had been on Medium, I could have plowed through the entire game this weekend, I know it. Instead I tallied 7 + hours at chapter 7, but that doesn't include the hours I spent looking at the load screen after dying.

Gorvi

10-21-2008, 08:27 AM

That sounds like there really should have been a setting in between. I guess it'll just depend on my mood at the time then, if I have the patience for being frustrated a bit or if I just want to enjoy the atmosphere.

rinichanraar

10-22-2008, 04:43 AM

Editor's Note - Spammer's link removed

Yay, spam? :(

Spigot

10-22-2008, 06:35 PM

Yay, spam? :(There have been a lot of spam-bots in several of the threads. They must be seeing the traffic and going, "Ooooh... New blood!"

Johan

11-04-2008, 11:46 AM

So, the Dead Space thread ends with "condom bomb...condom on by (sic) mouth...horse cock dildo." :D

Bot/spam reported.

Spigot

11-04-2008, 02:45 PM

So, the Dead Space thread ends with "condom bomb...condom on by (sic) mouth...horse cock dildo." :D

Bot/spam reported.Sounds like the end boss...

fitbabits

11-04-2008, 02:52 PM

sounds like the end boss...
no spoilers, please!

Purple Santa

11-04-2008, 02:52 PM

You beat me to it. I missed out on the PS1 generation for the most part and while I did play a lot of PS1 games after I got my PS2, I didn't play ALL of them...

I forgot D was on PS1. I was thinking of D2 on the Dreamcast also...well it's an obscure game that you haven't played...i'm still shocked :D

Spigot

11-04-2008, 04:10 PM

I forgot D was on PS1. I was thinking of D2 on the Dreamcast also...well it's an obscure game that you haven't played...i'm still shocked :DI knew about them, but hadn't played them.

Like I said, I pretty much sat out consoles during the PS1/N64 era (until pretty late in the cycle) and it wasn't until I got my PS2 and started scouring the PS1 back catalogue and grabbing all of the good games that I realized what I'd missed.

Spigot

11-07-2008, 05:53 AM

Just in case anyone cares, I finished up the game at around 2ish last night. Very nice stuff. I found the game was more enjoyable when I played it at the rate of about one chapter a night. If I played more than that, it started to wear out its welcome, but if you play about a chapter at a sitting, it's fun.

My only decision now is whether to hold onto the game or trade it in while the value is still high. I could possibly get Gears 2 for next to nothing if I play my cards right...

excabefanteep

11-09-2008, 11:31 AM

Go fuck yourself. If you're looking for assistance, I suggest you use some of the "Viagra" you're peddling. - fitbabits

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a390/fitbabits/ban_hammer.jpg

Purple Santa

11-09-2008, 06:39 PM

Go fuck yourself. If you're looking for assistance, I suggest you use some of the "Viagra" you're peddling. - fitbabits

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a390/fitbabits/ban_hammer.jpg

Wow. I wish I could sig pics. Cool banning...

Young Al Capone

11-10-2008, 07:03 AM

Wow. I wish I could sig pics. Cool banning...

I, for one, am glad that you cannot sig pics. Your sig is already gargantuan, bigger than most posts. :p

Purple Santa

11-10-2008, 06:41 PM

Now having played through almost half of Dead Space, I find Fits/Jay nailed the impression on the game. It's not a survival horror, although it might of been marketed as one. It's steeped in atmosphere, it's made to want you to feel claustrophobic, a psychological fear in general not for the pop out at you creatures but the creepiness you find in movies like Alien or games such as Doom 3 or Bioshock. I definitely feel that is where the game's strength is. I don't think I reached the immersion level Fits/Jay did, but the game did allow me to feel immersed on that ship.