IGN UK REVIEW
Closing Comments
It really is a shame because, this particular aspect of design stupidity aside, Alone in the Dark really does deserve the somewhat overused accolade of ‘flawed masterpiece’. Sure, its plot is hugely contrived, it’s occasionally frustrating and really lacking in the kind of polish we expect from big-name games in this day and age. However, it’s also undoubtedly one of the most imaginative, ambitious and exciting titles to hit a console in the last few years. It’s frequently astonishing in its approach to oft-used action tropes and genuinely progresses a whole host of well-worn conventions in the process. Up until that point, we were more than happy to offer our recommendation to anyone that appreciates gaming innovation as long as potential players were prepared to endure its occasional experimental failures alongside its many successes. In fact, that’s still pretty much true, although the recommendation is tougher to justify. Ultimately, in 2008, the most terrifying thing in an action horror title really shouldn’t be the resurrection of long-since abandoned game contrivances. Unfortunately, with Alone in the Dark, it is.
7.5
Presentation
There's plenty to like, from interfaces to the the DVD-style chapter select, but as a whole the game lacks polish.
8.0
Graphics
Atmospheric use of fire, fog and shadow, but poor animation and first-gen plastic sheen takes the edge off detailed characters and environments.
7.5
Sound
There's a beautiful score, used sparsely, but uneven voice acting and strange effects work are detrimental.
7.0
Gameplay
It's frequently thrilling and refreshingly imaginative. However, frustrating segments and some awful design decisions threaten to derail proceedings.
7.0
Lasting Appeal
Without the tedious tree-trouncing, you're looking at around ten hours. Needless padding is so painful though, it's a chore to complete.
7.0 Decent
OVERALL
(out of 10 / not an average)
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IGN REVIEW
Closing Comments
Alone in the Dark has some good ideas, but it fails at most because it tries them all. Nice visuals, great fire effects and valiant efforts at innovation don’t make up for boring combat, frustrating controls, poorly designed levels and a hackneyed story. There’s a certain amount of old-school adventure charm in Alone in the Dark, but it shines only as the dimmest of lights, hemmed in by the darkness of its many failures.
4.5
Presentation
The story and dialogue are goofy, and both are delivered awkwardly. A DVD-esque menu system is good for skipping around, but otherwise it’s pretty useless when there’s little worth watching.
6.0
Graphics
Central Park looks adequately spooky at times, and the game runs smoothly. But most character models, enemies and environments lack personality.
6.5
Sound
The soundtrack is catchy, creepy and atmospheric. But the voice acting is cringe-worthy.
3.0
Gameplay
Glitchy, buggy, frustrating, boring and repetitive. The few truly interesting puzzles don’t balance out the annoying inventory system, controls and combat.
3.0
Lasting Appeal
You probably won't want to finish this game, let alone play it more than once. Since everything is open from the very beginning, there's nothing to go back and unlock.
3.5 Bad
OVERALL
! Nem sei que jogo hei de comprar :S
