This game is set in the backdrop of a post-apolatypic dystopian future – specifically after a fungal infection outbreak has turned humans into something like zombies (controlled by the fungi) and dangerous. Originally made for PS3 a decade back and remade for PS5 last year, it is a visually captivating, emotionally haunting story with elements of action and adventure thrown in. If there ever was a video game that behaved like a movie that you could control and play in as the lead character this would be the one.
Within the first few minutes of the game you understand that the world that is depicted is brutal and you can’t take anything for granted. Death and destruction are all around you and except for a paltry few lighter moments, the game is dark and disturbing all the way. It was also a very emotionally draining game and I was able to play just an hour or so before needing a big break (just like an emotionally draining movie would be).
The 4K visuals were stunning to say the least and the 60fps gameplay very addictive. If you have a decent TV (like the Sony A80 OLED that I played it on) then even the dark scenes will shine through. You could just look at the characters and perceive all the emotions that is going through them – a tribute to how good the motion capture acting has been coupled with brilliant graphics tech.
The gameplay has interesting elements. Depending on the type of gamer you are, it could lead to potentially different ways of playing the same game. I prefer stealth a lot which this game rewards but it is not the only way to tackle enemies. Other factors like resource management add to the depth – you need to scourge a lot for stuff and use them judiciously (one example is that the same raw materials can be used to create a health kit or to make a flamable weapon – a tradeoff between safely healing yourself or going for attack). The skills and weapons upgrade can also be tailor made to what you think will give you an edge.
In short, if there was a “Top 10 games to play before you die” list, my bet is this would feature in that. Happy gaming 🙂