My first playthrough as Emily Hartwood in the remake of Alone in the Dark proved to be a bit of a challenge, particularly against the final boss. Despite the struggle, the game had many thrilling moments and is well worth playing. One aspect that stood out to me was the game's self-awareness of its limitations, refusing to overcomplicate what worked. The game mechanics are simple yet effective, with three weapons at your disposal, including a shotgun, machine gun, and pistol/revolver, depending on your character choice. The melee attack system, which utilizes items you find, adds to the gameplay.
Jodie Comer and David Harbour's performances as Emily and Edward are fantastic, with impressive modeling, rigging, and motion capture. The story, however, is a bit disorienting, throwing you into the mysterious world of Derceto Mansion, a facility for the mentally ill. As you navigate the narrative, the lines between reality and the characters' perceptions become blurred, keeping you guessing until the very end.
The game's score and sound design are its strongest aspects, featuring a haunting jazz-like melody that sets the tone. The characters you meet along the way add to the sense of disassociation and confusion, making it difficult to discern what's real and what's not. The varied locations, from the streets of New Orleans to graveyards and Antarctica, make the game unique and compelling. The puzzles are engaging and sometimes frustrating, keeping you intrigued and invested in the game.
Overall, Alone in the Dark is a more straightforward survival horror game, likely due to budget constraints. Despite receiving mixed reviews, I believe the game has potential for a sequel, especially if Jodie Comer and David Harbour return. Their performances are a highlight of the game, and their characters' chemistry adds to the experience.
