Some games really slip through the cracks, and Prey is high on that list for me. It's a shame because I can't believe I waited so long to dive into this one. Released in 2017, this game is a mix of first-person shooter, survival horror, and puzzle-solving that pleasantly surprised me.
From the moment I started playing, I was drawn into this eerie, deserted space station. The mystery of what happened to the crew kept me on my toes, and figuring it all out was genuinely exciting. I liked how the game balanced action with the need to think strategically about how to progress. Instead of a never-ending stream of bullets and big explosions, it felt more about resourcefulness and exploration, which is refreshing.
Instead of a vast arsenal, you mainly start with a glue gun and a wrench. The glue gun isn't just for immobilizing the shadowy aliens-it's also key to solving puzzles. I found myself getting creative with it more often than I expected. It's a simple tool, but it added a unique layer to the gameplay that I really enjoyed. Sure, there are guns like shotguns and pistols that you can upgrade along the way, but honestly, the glue gun became my best friend.
Speaking of enemies, the game's foes are these dark, shapeshifting aliens, and while they felt a bit repetitive over time, they still managed to keep me engaged. I enjoyed the challenge they presented. Freezing them with my glue gun and then smashing them with a wrench gave me a small thrill every time. It's a simple yet satisfying combat loop that works.
The characters you meet in the game contribute to the story, and I liked how they introduce side missions that impact the overall ending. I think it's worth it to explore every corner and take on these tasks. The game does require some backtracking, which could have been tedious, but it didn't bother me too much. The world they've created is so intriguing that I wanted to see more of it anyway.
I played Prey on my Xbox Series X, and the performance was excellent. The visuals were sharp, and the sound design really enhanced the experience. The gunplay felt impactful, even with a limited selection, and the voice acting brought the characters to life, especially a helpful robot named January.
I sank about 30 hours into the game, most of which were filled with enjoyment, even if there were moments where I felt a bit stuck. It's a real shame to think that we most likely won't see a sequel or any continuation of this world. The sales didn't match expectations, and that's disappointing because I genuinely feel like this game deserves more love and recognition.
In the end, Prey stands out as a classic 8/10 game for me. It's a unique experience that I regret not picking up sooner. If you're looking for something different that blends action, mystery, and puzzle-solving in a captivating way, I highly recommend giving it a shot. You won't regret it.
